Action to Improve NHS Care for Neourodivergent People
Below is a letter I drafted in support of Petition No. 638179 created by Leanne Maskell asking the UK's Members of Parliament to hold an inquiry into support both before and after an ADHD diagnosis. Want to support this measure? Scroll to the bottom for information.
Dear Venerable Members of Parliament,
I hope this letter finds you in good health. As one of your constituents, I kindly request your support and consideration regarding the petition titled "Hold a Public Inquiry into pre and post-diagnosis ADHD support." This petition highlights the pressing need for a comprehensive examination of the support provided to individuals with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), both before and after diagnosis.
Do you know about "curb cut effect”? This term refers to the phenomenon where accommodations made to support individuals with disabilities end up benefiting the broader community as well. For example, curb cuts were initially designed to assist individuals using wheelchairs, but they have proven to be invaluable for parents with strollers, travelers with suitcases, cyclists, and many others. By ensuring comprehensive support for individuals with ADHD, we are not only promoting inclusivity and justice but also investing in a future where all members of society can thrive.
I understand that there may be skepticism surrounding the legitimacy of ADHD as a neurological condition, particularly among some individuals who may be more familiar with traditional conceptions of health and well-being. However, it is crucial to recognize that ADHD is a serious neurological condition and the scientific community, along with recognized institutions such as the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), acknowledges ADHD as a valid and significant condition. I cannot overstate the important of taking action when recent studies have shown that people with ADHD are five times more likely to attempt to take their own lives.
There are persistent challenges in providing appropriate support and understanding to individuals with ADHD. NICE Guidelines recommend holistic and shared treatment plans, tailored to each individual's specific needs. However, it has come to my attention that medication often becomes the primary or sole option provided, neglecting the broader range of support that individuals with ADHD require. It is vital that we prioritize a comprehensive approach that encompasses various forms of support, including therapeutic interventions, educational accommodations, and community resources.
Moreover, it is important to acknowledge that ADHD has only been recognized by NICE since 2008. While progress has been made in terms of recognition and understanding, the current support infrastructure remains inadequate. Lengthy waiting lists for diagnosis and treatment exacerbate the challenges faced by individuals with ADHD and leave them vulnerable to exploitation and unmet needs. It is our duty to address these shortcomings and provide timely and appropriate support to those affected by ADHD.
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I would also like to bring to your attention the recent BBC Panorama episode aired on May 15, 2023. While it is essential to raise awareness about ADHD, it is equally important to ensure that the portrayal is accurate and balanced. Unfortunately, this particular episode sensationalized the struggles faced by individuals with ADHD, which has led to heightened confusion and skepticism among those who question their diagnosis. It is incumbent upon the government to take decisive action and hold the media accountable for irresponsible reporting.?
Therefore, I humbly request your support for a public inquiry into pre and post-diagnosis ADHD support. Such an inquiry would enable a thorough examination of the current support structures, identify areas in need of improvement, and recommend evidence-based interventions to ensure that individuals with ADHD receive comprehensive and tailored support. By taking this step, we can demonstrate our commitment to the well-being and inclusivity of neurodiverse individuals within our society. It is important to recognize that the positive impacts of this inquiry will extend far beyond individuals with ADHD. By championing neurodiversity and enhancing support for those with ADHD, we create a more inclusive society that benefits all neurodiverse individuals including (but not limited to) those with autism spectrum disorders, dyslexia, discalcula. Embracing neurodiversity means recognizing and valuing the unique strengths and contributions that neurodiverse individuals bring to our communities. It is a step towards fostering a society that celebrates diversity and provides equal opportunities for all.
In crafting this letter, I am reminded of the following, 'First they came for the Communists, and I did not speak out. Then they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out. Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out. Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out. Then they came for me, and there was no one left to speak out for me.'?Disability is a natural part of the human experience, affecting most of us as we age, whether through reduced mobility, dementia, or other forms. By improving support systems for all disabilities, we create a society that acknowledges and prepares for the diverse needs of its citizens, now and in the future. Let's take action now for a more equitable, compassionate society that celebrates the strengths and contributions of individuals with diverse abilities."
Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. I eagerly await your response and look forward to witnessing positive change in our community.
Sincerely, Concerned Citizen
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