An independent review is set to examine the escalating demand for mental health, ADHD, and autism services—issues that are increasingly straining the UK’s resources. These challenges are putting immense pressure on the National Health Service (NHS), affecting the economy, and prompting a number of workers to request special accommodations based on medical recommendations.

This situation contributes to a growing productivity crisis and an expanding welfare expenditure. Furthermore, an entire generation of young people is at risk of being sidelined from the workforce, potentially impacting their future prospects. It is crucial to investigate the root causes of Britain’s rising mental health issues to discern whether these are genuine health concerns or a result of possible over-diagnosis influenced by evolving social and cultural norms.

Undoubtedly, life in contemporary Britain can be demanding and challenging. However, it’s worth noting that the nation is not currently enduring a crisis on the scale of historical events like world wars or a global pandemic akin to COVID-19.

Receiving a diagnosis can sometimes serve as a way to externalize personal struggles, attributing difficulties to a disorder rather than personal accountability. This can lead to an over-reliance on medical explanations, such as NHS wait times or medication side effects, to justify professional challenges or avoidance.

In my view, as offered to anyone interested, the underlying issue within our culture may be a widespread reluctance to take personal responsibility and proactive steps when facing adversity.

Indeed, overcoming life’s hurdles requires endurance and perseverance, which can be daunting. Yet, through these experiences, one can cultivate resilience and the ability to cope. Facing and managing difficulties ultimately strengthens and fortifies individuals for future challenges.

Sadly many ‘experts’ refuse to admit something your grandmother understood – and she probably didn’t even know what a psychiatrist was – that life presents natural hazards and you can only benefit from learning to resolve them yourself.

One side-effect of diagnosis, in contrast, is that it transfers power to ‘experts’.

Yes, some patients really do have something medical going on that would benefit from clinical intervention. But as there is no blood test, it’s too easy in a rushed ten-minute consultation, to deliver what others really want – which is an excuse.

But you didn’t need a psychiatrist to tell you that, did you?