Oxford Allows Extra Exam Time for ADHD Without Diagnosis

A recent study highlights the prevalence of misinformation about ADHD on TikTok, revealing that less than half of the claims in the top 100 most viewed videos align with clinical guidelines, potentially leading to self-diagnosis issues among viewers. Concurrently, the University of Oxford has implemented a policy allowing students who suspect they have ADHD to receive 25% extra time on exams without a formal diagnosis, aiming to reduce barriers for those facing long wait times for evaluations. This has raised concerns about overdiagnosis, as nearly all students screened for ADHD at Oxford were marked as having the condition, contrasting sharply with lower approval rates in NHS settings. Experts warn that the surge in ADHD prescriptions and the role of social media in shaping perceptions may contribute to this trend. Additionally, the NHS offers a simple two-minute screening test to help identify potential ADHD symptoms, highlighting the ongoing debate about diagnostic practices and the validity of self-assessments. Overall, the conversation around ADHD diagnosis is becoming increasingly urgent as the demand for clarity and accuracy grows.