Birmingham-born BBC Star Helen George Reveals ADHD Diagnosis Journey
Birmingham-born actress Helen George, renowned for her role in Call the Midwife, has openly discussed her recent diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and her decision to use medication to manage the condition. In a candid interview on the podcast I’m ADHD! No You’re Not, George detailed her personal health journey, highlighting a pivotal moment that led to her diagnosis approximately three-and-a-half years ago, following the birth of her second child.
The 'Lightbulb Moment' That Changed Everything
George described a transformative conversation with a male friend who also has ADHD, which served as her 'lightbulb moment'. He shared insights about women with the condition, particularly those who become mothers and are diagnosed later in life. "He was telling me all this, and then I suddenly went, 'Oh, just like me. It's like the lightbulb moment I needed,'" George recalled. Prior to this, she had never considered that she might have ADHD, attributing her experiences to the eccentricities of the acting profession. "I just thought I'm an actress and everyone's crazy," she admitted, noting that ADHD traits might actually align with the skills required in acting.
Embracing Medication and Motherhood
On the podcast, hosted by comedian Paul Whitehouse and neuroscience specialist Dr. Mine Conkbayir, George explained her choice to take medication to alleviate her symptoms. She emphasized that while the world lacks adequate support for individuals with ADHD, medication offers a practical solution. "I don't think this world provides the necessary support we need. So therefore, while it doesn't, I would like to take medication to see if that aids me," she stated. George added that if societal conditions improved, she might reconsider this approach, underscoring her ongoing learning process about what works best for her health and well-being.
Balancing Career and Family Life
As a mother, George is focused on optimizing her functioning to enhance her parenting abilities. "I've got to work out how you can function best so that you can mother best, so their lives can be the best that they can be," she shared. This perspective reflects her commitment to creating a positive ripple effect for her family without being self-indulgent. Her journey highlights the challenges faced by many women who receive ADHD diagnoses later in life, often after becoming parents, and the importance of seeking appropriate care and support.
Podcast Launch and Availability
The fifth season of the podcast I’m ADHD! No You’re Not launched on Thursday, March 19, with new episodes available every Thursday at 6 a.m. on all major podcast platforms. This series continues to provide a platform for discussions on ADHD and mental health, featuring insights from experts and personal stories like George's. Her openness contributes to broader awareness and understanding of ADHD, particularly among women and mothers in the public eye.
