My daughter has suffered for years with suspected ADHD and has felt suicidal because the NHS refuses to assess her due to her existing autism diagnosis. Camhs made her chose her own diagnosis between autism and adhd, how can a child make this diagnosis herself. This heartbreaking situation is not unique to my family; there are thousands of individuals who face a similar struggle. These people are forced to seek private diagnoses at great expense, a situation which is utterly unacceptable and inaccessible to many.

The National Health Service (NHS) is failing individuals who live with the dual challenges of autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Currently, NHS policy prohibits a diagnosis of ADHD if an individual is already diagnosed with autism. This policy overlooks the well-researched reality that one can have both conditions. Research from the National Institute of Health highlights that individuals with autism are up to three times more likely to also have ADHD.

Countries such as the United States and Canada recognize the co-morbidity of these conditions and offer integrated diagnostic and treatment approaches. The United Kingdom must follow suit and adapt its mental health services to reflect modern understandings of neurodiversity.

This petition calls for an immediate change in NHS policy to allow for concurrent diagnoses of autism and ADHD. By doing so, we can ensure that those suffering, like my daughter and so many others, can access appropriate assessments and treatments without the barrier of redundant policies.

Access to accurate diagnoses and effective treatment should be a fundamental right, not a privilege only available to those who can afford private healthcare. I urge the decision-makers within the NHS to re-evaluate and revise their current diagnostic protocols and to embrace a more inclusive approach in mental health care.

Sign this petition to demand that the NHS adapts its diagnostic criteria for ADHD in individuals already diagnosed with autism. Your support can make a difference in the lives of many who are relying on the NHS for compassionate and comprehensive health care. Together, we can champion a change that respects and acknowledges the complexities of mental health diagnoses. Sign now and help us bring about meaningful reform in NHS mental health services.