Neurodiversity in Individuals with Mental Health and Addiction - V1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Title: Assessing Neurodivergence and Adjustment Needs in Individuals with Co-occurring Mental Health and Substance Use Problems in Sutton Community NHS Mental Health Services. Subtitle: Improving Referral Pathways and Joint Working Between Mental Health, Substance Use, and Neurodiversity Support Services
IRAS ID
365528
Contact name
Raffaella Margherita Milani
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of East London
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 11 months, 25 days
Research summary
This study aims to explore the prevalence of neurodivergent traits, specifically Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and ASD, among adults accessing Sutton Adult Community Mental Health Services, part of South West London and St George’s NHS Trust. Research suggests that these traits are often under-identified in people with co-occurring mental health conditions or addiction, even though evidence suggest high overlap between these conditions. Undetected presence of ADHD and/or ASD may strongly influence recovery and treatment outcomes.
Participants will be invited through their healthcare providers or by scanning a QR code on clinic letters to complete an initial online screening using the ASSIST-Lite tool, which assesses alcohol and substance use. Those meeting eligibility criteria will then be invited to complete further screenings for ADHD (ASRS-v1.1) and autism (AQ-10), either online or by phone. Participants will receive a personalised summary of their results and may choose to share these with their healthcare provider to support integrated care planning.
With participants’ consent, the research team will also review relevant information from clinical records (RiO system) to better understand the links between trauma, neurodivergence, and mental health difficulties within this population. Additionally, some participants will be invited to take part in individual interviews to share their lived experiences and perspectives on barriers and support needs. A focus group with professionals working in Sutton mental health and addiction services will also be conducted to explore staff's perspectives and identify barriers and opportunities for improving integrated care.
At the end of the study, all participants will have the opportunity to complete a brief feedback form to share their experiences of taking part. The findings will help inform service development and strengthen pathways between mental health and addiction services, ensuring neurodivergent individuals receive more tailored and effective support.
REC name
East of Scotland Research Ethics Service REC 2
REC reference
26/ES/0026
Date of REC Opinion
13 Apr 2026
REC opinion
Unfavourable Opinion