Shetland Faces Rising ADHD Diagnosis Demand, Over 300 Await Care

More than 300 adults in Shetland are currently on the waiting list for an ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) diagnosis, highlighting a significant strain on local healthcare services. During the NHS Shetland annual review meeting held on Monday, it was revealed that the region is struggling to keep up with the rising demand for assessments. The Minister for Drugs and Alcohol Policy and Sport, Maree Todd, noted that this increase is part of a national trend, attributed to heightened awareness and reduced stigma surrounding mental health issues.

The review also disclosed that over 240 children were on waiting lists for neurodevelopmental assessments at the end of the financial year 2024/25. Conditions under review include autism and ADHD. Gary Robinson, the chairman of NHS Shetland, acknowledged the persistent challenges in meeting this growing demand. “We know in Shetland we have double the national average of learning disability and neurodevelopmental diagnosis,” he stated.

In response to the increasing needs, NHS Shetland is focusing its limited resources on the most vulnerable individuals while exploring alternative support methods for those waiting for services. Robinson emphasized the importance of improving outcomes for all patients.

The NHS describes ADHD as a combination of behavioral symptoms, which can involve difficulties with concentration, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. Some individuals may experience inattentiveness without hyperactivity. The health board can provide medication to manage these symptoms, yet many patients are facing lengthy wait times.

During a question-and-answer session at the meeting, occupational therapist Jen Roberts inquired about plans to address the growing demand for ADHD assessments. Todd responded, stating there is a “global rise” in requests for assessments. “That is causing a particular challenge here in Scotland because our services aren’t able to cope with the increase in demand,” she explained.

Todd further indicated that there is ongoing discussion about whether the prevalence of ADHD has genuinely increased or if more individuals are seeking diagnosis due to decreasing stigma. Anthony McDavitt, director of pharmacy at NHS Shetland, acknowledged the high number of individuals awaiting diagnosis and treatment, pointing out that the service was not designed to accommodate such a large population.

“There’s a lot of work we’re doing internally,” McDavitt said. “We have had some success in the past around having a good, effective assessment process, but there is still a treatment pathway that needs to mature.” He assured that NHS Shetland is committed to ensuring assessment and treatment availability for those suspected of having ADHD, as well as for individuals facing other complications such as mental illness or substance use.

The health board has described the situation as a “new burden in demand.” In the previous year, NHS Shetland reported that demand for ADHD assessments had doubled within two years, with a notable increase in referrals since the end of the Covid pandemic. In November 2023, reports indicated that adult patients were facing an average wait time of 14 months for assessments.

For more information on ADHD, individuals are encouraged to visit the NHS website, which provides resources and support options.