Channel 4 ADHD documentary sparks public backlash

Channel 4 announced a new documentary, The Great ADHD Myth?, which examines whether attention‑deficit/hyperactivity disorder is a genuine neurodevelopmental condition or a social construct. The programme features NHS psychiatrist Dr Max Pemberton and follows a family exploring non‑pharmacological approaches.

The announcement has drawn strong criticism from viewers and ADHD advocacy groups. Critics warn the film could stigmatise the estimated 2.5 million people in England who live with ADHD and the 741,000 children among them, and could undermine the experiences of those who finally received a diagnosis after years of struggle. In Jersey, the local ADHD support charity highlighted long waiting lists and service capacity problems, urging that any debate reflect the full picture of treatment and support.