Author: Avery Lombardi, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS
The release of the DSM-5 brought several changes to ADHD classification, and some experts believe these updates may have contributed to DSM-5 ADHD overdiagnosis. While the intention was to improve access to care, critics argue that the diagnostic standards in the DSM-5 lowered the symptom thresholds, potentially increasing the number of people diagnosed without a clear clinical need.
Key updates included raising the age of symptom onset from 7 to 12, reducing the number of required symptoms for adult diagnosis, and broadening the language around symptom descriptions. These shifts were meant to reflect real-world presentations, particularly in adults, but they also expanded the criteria making it easier to meet the diagnostic bar.
How DSM-5 Changes May Influence Overdiagnosis
Here’s how the DSM-5 may affect classification changes and overdiagnosis risk:
Looser symptom thresholds
Adults now only need five symptoms (rather than six), which can lead to more borderline cases qualifying.
Wider interpretation
Broader wording allows for more subjective judgments, reducing diagnostic consistency.
Increased inclusion
More people now fit the ADHD criteria which may help some but also raises concerns about mislabelling.
In conclusion, it’s a delicate balance improving access without compromising diagnostic accuracy. Changes in DSM-5 ADHD overdiagnosis diagnostic criteria should open doors and not blur the lines between real need and overdiagnosis.
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Avery Lombardi, MSc
Author
Avery Lombardi is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She has professional experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based therapy, and research, working with both child and adult populations. Avery has provided clinical services in hospital, educational, and community settings, delivering interventions such as CBT, DBT, and tailored treatment plans for conditions including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders. She has also contributed to research on self-stigma, self-esteem, and medication adherence in psychotic patients, and has created educational content on ADHD, treatment options, and daily coping strategies.
All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.
Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS
Reviewer
Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.
All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.
