Innovative Approaches to ADHD and Mental Health Care: Compassionate, Connection, Community-Based Solutions for Sustainable Transformation
Lead Researcher & Project Coordinator
ADHD research methodology and community engagement
Data Analyst & Statistical Expert
Economic impact analysis and healthcare metrics
Clinical Research Specialist
Evidence-based interventions and therapeutic approaches
Community Engagement Lead
Peer support networks and lived experience integration
Mental health services in the UK face critical challenges, including surging demand, workforce shortages, and prolonged diagnosis waiting times — exacerbating health inequalities and societal costs. This paper proposes the ADHD Action Network, a mutual aid group co-produced with experts by experience (EbE), that addresses these gaps through three core pillars: self-referral systems, peer support networks, and improved integration of services.
Rooted in community-driven innovation, this model draws inspiration from global programs and aligns with NHS strategies to deliver scalable, sustainable care.
Mental health services treated a record 3.8 million people in 2024, yet workforce shortages persist
NHS England, 2024aIn North London, patients wait 3–8 years for services; nationally, median waiting time is 47 days
Burns et al., 2024Up to 70% of GPs in Wales are no longer sharing care for ADHD patients due to pay dispute
ITV News, 2024Develop alcohol addiction
Develop drug addiction
Through self-referral systems and peer-led support networks, empowering individuals during extended waiting periods
Such as ACT and mindfulness-based interventions, adhering to NICE guidelines that prioritise education and non-pharmacological approaches before medication
With NHS systems, local authorities, and community organisations to align with regional strategies, such as the North Central London Health and Care Plan
Innovative management, early intervention, and learning-based care
Reduce pressure on GPs and NHS trusts by providing and guiding support within local communities, increasing accessibility to ADHD support and intervention
Leverage low-cost, co-produced solutions mirroring success of the Atmiyata program, reducing systemic financial reliance and hospitalisations
Address social bias toward ADHD and broader implications including the disproportionate prevalence of ADHD in criminal populations (25% vs. 3-4% nationally) by improving earlier intervention and community support
Tangible intervention for The Waiting Well; additional GP support pathway; relieve helplessness and anxiety
ADHD skills training (time management, emotional regulation); build supportive relationships; suicide prevention
Signposting to NHS & third sector resources; first-hand recommendations from EbE; system navigation
Specific behavioural compensatory strategies within group CBT
Bramham et al., 2009Reducing impulsivity, inattention, and inflexibility through ACT
Knouse & Safren, 2010; Munawar et al., 2021Two-year pilot across 15 sites
Ongoing rural India program
Learn about ADHD, find hope and in-person community
Low-risk innovative proven project with significant cost savings
Offer innovation, bringing trust together
Increased efficiency, improved patient outcomes
Improved data collection and patient self-empowerment models
Somewhere to signpost their employees
Increased education and awareness around neurodivergent support
By prioritising community empowerment, workforce resilience, and NHS alignment, the ADHD Action Network lays the groundwork for scalable mental health transformation. Future phases aim to expand across boroughs, supported by risk-mitigated roadmaps and collaborative funding strategies, fostering a system rooted in compassion, equity, and innovation.
As awareness and understanding of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) continues to grow, we are presented with a unique opportunity to transform mental health care delivery through an innovative peer-to-peer network model that is scalable, low cost and effective. Together, we can shift from reactive to proactive solutions, building a future where individuals with ADHD receive compassionate, accessible, and effective care.
Through consideration and implementation of the most effective aspects of global, national and regional perspectives, we propose aligning such approaches to intervention with individual needs through a new comprehensive model of ADHD support.