Diagnosis and Care in the UK: Mental health disorders are at the forefront of discussions about the rise in health benefit claims, prompting Health Secretary Wes Streeting to suggest that overdiagnosis could be a contributing factor. However, while overdiagnosis may be a concern, the conversation should also focus on ensuring individuals receive the support they need rather than deterring them from seeking help.
The Reality of Mental Health Diagnoses
Speaking with Laura Kuenssberg on the BBC, Streeting acknowledged that mental health services are at a “breaking point.” He noted that while mental wellbeing exists on a spectrum, “there’s definitely an overdiagnosis, but there’s too many people being written off.”
NHS data reveals a significant increase in the number of people in contact with mental health services, nearly doubling from 1.2 million in 2016 to 2 million in January 2025. Much of this rise has occurred post-pandemic, reflecting the broader impact of lockdowns, isolation, and economic uncertainty on mental health. Notably, diagnoses of anxiety-related disorders have remained steady at around 15,000 per year, but there has been an increase in combined anxiety-depressive disorder cases.
Encouraging Help-Seeking Behaviour
While concerns around overdiagnosis exist, it is vital that individuals feel supported in seeking help rather than discouraged by debates over diagnostic criteria. A timely diagnosis can provide much-needed clarity and access to support services, empowering individuals to take control of their mental health.
However, with NHS mental health services stretched thin and long waiting lists a persistent challenge, many individuals struggle to access timely care. This gap in support underscores the importance of alternative options, such as private counselling, for those in need of immediate assistance.
A Practical Alternative: Private Counselling
For those facing delays in accessing NHS services, private counselling can offer a more immediate route to support. Hope Therapy and Counselling Services provides accessible mental health care across the UK, with face-to-face clinics in the East Midlands, London, Cambridge, Oxford, and other regions. Additionally, online counselling ensures support is available for those balancing work, family commitments, or facing travel constraints.
With a free 15-minute consultation, individuals can explore whether Hope Therapy and Counselling Services is the right fit for them, with clear transparency over costs and timelines. Offering support for a range of mental health conditions, including family, youth, and relationship counselling, this service can be an effective and immediate solution for those seeking help.
Conclusion
Rather than focusing solely on whether mental health conditions are overdiagnosed, the conversation should centre on ensuring people have access to appropriate care. With NHS services under pressure, private counselling offers a valuable alternative for those seeking timely support. Whether through public or private channels, the priority should always be to ensure that individuals struggling with mental health challenges receive the help they need.