What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?

ADHD is a condition affecting a person's ability to pay attention, manage high energy levels, and control impulses, typically starting before age 12 and impacting an estimated 1 in 20 children globally.

What are the parents of Matthew Lock campaigning for?

Matthew's parents are campaigning for earlier diagnosis of ADHD and a deeper understanding of the links between ADHD, impulsive behaviour, addiction, and suicide.

What changes have been made to the NHS website regarding ADHD?

The NHS website has been updated with tailored content on ADHD for various age groups and highlights the increased risks of suicide and addiction, along with signposting for urgent help.

Home / Health / Teen Councillor Dies; Parents Link ADHD to Suicide

Teen Councillor Dies; Parents Link ADHD to Suicide

24 Jan

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Summary

A teenager who gained TV fame for his love of vacuum cleaners died aged 19.
His parents believe his impulsive suicide was linked to his ADHD.
The parents are campaigning for earlier ADHD diagnosis and awareness.

Teen Councillor Dies; Parents Link ADHD to Suicide

Matthew Lock, a charismatic teenager known for his appearances on ITV's This Morning and his recent election as a Labour councillor for Maghull and Lydiate, died by suicide in September 2025 at the age of 19. His parents, Christine and Richard Lock, believe his death was an impulsive act linked to his undiagnosed Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

For years, Christine suspected Matthew had ADHD despite his autism diagnosis, noting difficulties with focus and impulse control. She faced pushback from professionals who believed he was meeting developmental milestones. The Locks highlight a significant gap in understanding ADHD's full impact, including its connections to suicide and addiction.

This devastating loss has fueled the Locks' advocacy for earlier ADHD diagnosis and increased awareness of the condition's links to impulsive behaviour, addiction, and suicide. They have been active in an NHS task force aimed at improving diagnosis and treatment, and have established a charity to promote education and awareness.