A lack of psychiatrists in NSW is to blame for people not being able to be diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), according to an Australian Senate Inquiry.
It is estimated that roughly one in 20 people in Australia have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) but that three quarters of those people may never be diagnosed.
Due to the lack of qualified people to carry out the diagnosis, there are wait times are long for those hoping to access medication.
ADHD was diagnosed for Matthew Dunn in 2023 and he said that his diagnosis came much faster than a lot of other patients in the NSW.
“It was about a six or seven week wait,” Mr Dunn said.
“They said it was going to be a six month wait and then I got a call because someone had cancelled and I was lucky enough to be the first one to get the spot.”
For those unable to wait months, or even years in the public system, private ADHD assessments are often the only option. But these can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,500, putting the assessment out of reach for many, especially students and young adults.
Nationwide, there are 4,300 psychiatrists meaning that there is one psychiatrist available per 6,200 people.
The senate inquiry by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists, has heard from experts that there are not enough qualified clinicians to carry out the growing number of ADHD assessments.
For those stuck on waitlists, the delay can result in poor academic performance, employment struggles, and worsening mental health. For many, receiving a diagnosis isn’t just a path to treatment, it’s validation that their struggle is real.
Mr Dunn said that getting diagnosed and having access to the medication has helped him manage his issues has increased his own understanding of himself.
“It was a big weight off my shoulders,” he said.
“After I got diagnosed I started to see myself in a different light and understand that this wasn’t some big personal shortcoming of mine.”