🌿 ADHD & Autism Diagnoses Are Rising: Why, and What It Really Means

You may have noticed it everywhere: more children, teenagers, and adults are being diagnosed with ADHD or autism. Some headlines call it an “epidemic.” Others worry about “overdiagnosis.” But the truth is far more hopeful.

This isn’t a sudden surge of difference — it’s recognition. People who were always here are finally being seen, understood, and named.

At Herbs on the Hill, we believe diagnosis is not about labels — it’s about belonging. And alongside the clarity a diagnosis brings, we know daily rituals of comfort and focus (like aromatherapy from our Limitless Collection) can make all the difference.

🌱 Why Are ADHD and Autism Diagnoses Increasing?

There are several reasons why diagnoses are rising:

Better awareness
- Teachers, parents, and doctors now recognise signs that were once missed.
- Girls and women — long overlooked — are finally being acknowledged.
Evolving definitions
- Clinical criteria for ADHD and autism have broadened.
- More people now fit the descriptions who would previously have been excluded.
Reduced stigma
- More people feel safe to seek support.
- Social media has created affirming communities where people recognise themselves.
Adults seeking clarity
- Many adults (especially women) masked for years and are now being diagnosed later in life.
- Diagnosis brings relief, self-understanding, and language.

👉 The rise isn’t about more people being neurodivergent. It’s about finally recognising those who were always here.

🌸 Is It Overdiagnosis?

Some worry that rising numbers mean “too many people” are being labelled. But research suggests the opposite:

ADHD and autism were historically underdiagnosed, especially in women, girls, and marginalised groups.
Today’s increase reflects catching up, not over-labelling.
For many, diagnosis is not a burden — it’s freedom. It offers understanding, validation, and a path toward supportive strategies.

💔 The Emotional Side of Diagnosis

Receiving a diagnosis can stir up many feelings:

Relief → “Now I understand myself.”
Grief → “Why wasn’t this recognised earlier?”
Overwhelm → “What do I do with this information?”
Hope → “Now I can find tools that help me thrive.”

Diagnosis doesn’t change who you are — but it can help you live with more clarity, compassion, and self-acceptance.

🌿 Options to Help

Diagnosis is just the beginning. Support often combines:

Therapy & coaching → strategies for daily life.
Community → connecting with peers who understand.
Lifestyle → structure, rest, sensory-friendly choices.
Sensory rituals → grounding practices like aromatherapy, mindful pauses, or weighted blankets.

👉 These can be used alone or together. The key is finding the mix that feels supportive for you.

✨ What the Science Says

Scent has a direct line to the limbic system, the brain’s centre for memory and emotion. That’s why inhaling an essential oil can bring instant calm, focus, or comfort.

Research highlights:

Lavender → encourages relaxation.
Citrus oils (orange, grapefruit, bergamot) → uplifting, clarity-boosting.
Rose → supports emotional steadiness.
Peppermint → refreshing, aids concentration.
Frankincense → grounding, helps with emotional processing.

🌸 The Limitless Collection: Focus & Calm for the Diagnosis Journey

The journey into ADHD or autism diagnosis can feel like a rollercoaster. That’s why we created the Limitless Collection — natural aromatherapy companions designed for clarity, calm, and sensory comfort.

Focus Roll-On (peppermint + citrus) → a pocket ally for study, work, or daily focus.
Calm Roll-On (lavender + chamomile) → grounding support in moments of overwhelm.
Limitless Brain Boost → a natural way to encourage clarity when your mind feels scattered or fatigued.
Botanical Breeze Spray → refreshing reset for overstimulated spaces.

🌿 Explore the Limitless Collection here, or pop into our Frome shop to try them in person.

🌿 Simple Rituals to Try

Morning Clarity

Diffuse peppermint and orange.
Let the bright, fresh scent set the tone for a focused day.

Evening Reset

Add lavender and rose to a warm bath.
Release tension and invite rest.

Pocket Pause

Carry the Focus or Calm Roll-On with you.
Pause, breathe, and remind yourself: you are safe, you are enough.

💡 FAQs About ADHD & Autism Diagnoses

Q: Why are more people being diagnosed with ADHD and autism now?
A: Because awareness and definitions have improved. Many people were always neurodivergent but went unrecognised.

Q: Is ADHD being overdiagnosed?
A: Research shows it was historically underdiagnosed. The current rise is a correction, not an exaggeration.

Q: Why are more women being diagnosed later in life?
A: Women and girls often mask their differences, so recognition has come later — but awareness is growing.

Q: Can aromatherapy help with ADHD or autism?
A: Aromatherapy isn’t a treatment, but it can provide sensory comfort and support focus, calm, and grounding as part of daily rituals.

💜

The rise in ADHD and autism diagnoses isn’t about “too many labels.” It’s about finally recognising the many different ways minds can thrive. Recognition brings understanding. And understanding brings comfort.

At Herbs on the Hill, we’ve spent over 30 years handcrafting heritage-inspired oils, balms, and mists to bring everyday ease and clarity.

🌿 Explore the Limitless Collection to find focus and calm companions for your journey — or visit us at 20 Bath Street, Frome.

💌 Reach out anytime:

kizzy@loveherbsonthehill.com
Live chat at HerbsontheHill.shop
Socials: @herbsonthehill

You were always here. Now you are seen. 🌸

ADHD & Autism Diagnoses Are Rising: Why, and What It Really Means