'We remortgaged to buy our kids' ADHD medication'

[Kajol]

The number of private prescriptions for ADHD medication in the UK surged from 28,439 in 2018-19 to nearly 400,000 in 2023-24 as patients sought alternatives to lengthy NHS waiting times, which can extend up to eight years in some regions. Families are spending significant amounts—sometimes resorting to financial sacrifices like remortgaging—to cover private assessments and medication costs. For example, one West Yorkshire family pays £500 monthly after an £8,000 initial diagnosis.

Private ADHD medication, such as methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine, costs between £15 and £130 per month, a barrier for many families. Rising awareness, online content, and celebrity disclosures are driving demand for diagnoses. Critics, including professionals and patients, highlight inequities and suggest the NHS often misdiagnoses ADHD symptoms as anxiety or depression to reduce costs.

The NHS has acknowledged delays and launched an ADHD taskforce to address backlogs, while the government aims to reduce waiting lists and improve diagnosis systems. However, many remain skeptical, describing the system as “broken.”

ADHD: 'We re-mortgaged to fund our children's medication'

[Yupeng]

Thank you for shedding light on this important issue. The surge in demand and the financial burdens faced by families highlight the urgent need for equitable and timely ADHD support. It’s heartbreaking to see so many struggle for essential care—here’s hoping the taskforce brings meaningful change.