The number of ADHD medication prescriptions given out in Oxfordshire has more than doubled since 2019, according to the latest data from NHS Open Prescribing

In May 2019 1,696 prescriptions were given out in Oxfordshire.

In April this year, there were more than double prescriptions recorded at 3,779.

Mary Austin, founder of ADHD Oxfordshire, explained the reason behind this. 

She said: "More people are being diagnosed with ADHD, because there is a lot more understanding of it and a lot of publicity, so people are recognising it in themselves or their family or friends.

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"However, this has been gradually increasing over the last 20 years.

"There are long waiting lists for assessment, both for children and adults.

"If medication is prescribed, then this needs follow up appointments which adds to the wait for new assessments.

"In Oxfordshire there is no reliable way for adults to get the medication without paying privately, because GPs have recently withdrawn from the Shared Care agreements, citing lack of training, funding and time.

"This is a massive problem."

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Ms Austin added: "The ADHD brain is great for spontaneity, creativity and responsiveness, but a lot of education and employment requires the skills that are difficult with ADHD.

"Therefore, some people decide to try a medication as this has been the only help on offer, and in many cases can be very helpful."

ADHD Oxfordshire is a small voluntary organisation offering support groups for people affected by ADHD.

In Buckinghamshire, a neighbouring county to Oxfordshire, prescriptions have risen from 1,183 in May 2019 to 2,625 in April this year.