Renowned actor Fahadh Faasil, celebrated for his roles in films such as "Aavesham," recently opened up about a significant aspect of his personal life that had remained private until now. During the inauguration of Peace Valley School in Kothamangalam, a school dedicated to rehabilitating children with special needs, Fahadh disclosed that he was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) at the age of 41. This revelation has brought attention to a condition often misunderstood and primarily associated with childhood.
Fahadh Faasil's Journey with ADHD
At the event, Fahadh shared his experience with ADHD candidly. He recounted how he inquired about the ease of curing ADHD while walking through the school's premises. He was informed that while early diagnosis in childhood could lead to better management, it becomes more challenging when diagnosed in adulthood. It was during this conversation that Fahadh received his clinical diagnosis.
Fahadh's openness about his ADHD diagnosis underscores the critical need for awareness and understanding of mental health issues. His story highlights that ADHD is not confined to children but also significantly impacts adults.
Understanding ADHD in Adults
ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults. It is characterised by symptoms such as inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. Although commonly identified in childhood, many individuals remain undiagnosed until adulthood. The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that the prevalence of ADHD in adults is likely underreported, especially among women, due to the different ways symptoms can manifest.
Symptoms of Adult ADHD
As per Dr. Tanu Chowdhury, Clinical Psychologist, ADHD symptoms can vary widely among individuals but generally include the following:
Restlessness and Anxiety
Adults with ADHD often experience an incessant internal drive to keep moving and doing things, which can lead to feelings of restlessness. This restlessness is often accompanied by anxiety, as the mind tends to replay stressful events repeatedly. Physical signs may include fidgeting, frequent movement, and difficulty remaining still.
Disorganisation
For adults with ADHD, organisational challenges are common. This can manifest as trouble keeping track of tasks, misplacing items, and struggling to prioritize responsibilities logically. These issues can make daily life more challenging compared to individuals without ADHD.
Forgetfulness
While occasional forgetfulness is normal, adults with ADHD experience it more frequently and to a greater extent. This can involve regularly forgetting where items are placed, missing important dates, and failing to follow through on tasks. Such forgetfulness can disrupt careers and personal relationships and may be misinterpreted as carelessness or lack of intelligence.
Relationship Concerns
Maintaining relationships can be particularly difficult for adults with ADHD. Traits such as inattentiveness, boredom, and a tendency to interrupt conversations can strain interactions with others. As a result, those with ADHD may be perceived as insensitive, irresponsible, or uncaring.
Hyperfocus
Contrary to the typical distraction associated with ADHD, individuals may also experience hyperfocus, where they become intensely engrossed in an activity to the exclusion of everything else. This can lead to losing track of time and neglecting those around them, causing misunderstandings in relationships.
Impulsivity
Impulsive behaviour is another hallmark of ADHD. This can include interrupting others, acting without considering consequences, and making hasty decisions. Such impulsiveness can lead to social and professional difficulties.
Fatigue
Despite the hyperactivity often associated with ADHD, fatigue is a common issue for many adults with the condition. Factors contributing to this include sleep problems, the constant mental effort required to focus, and side effects of medication. Fatigue can exacerbate attention difficulties and impact daily functioning.
Physical Health Concerns
ADHD can also negatively affect physical health. Symptoms like disorganisation, emotional instability, and lack of motivation can lead to neglecting health maintenance, such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and neglect of medication. Additionally, the stress and anxiety associated with ADHD can further impact physical well-being.
Raising Awareness and Seeking Help
Fahadh Faasil’s disclosure serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of recognising and addressing ADHD in adults. His story encourages others who may be struggling with similar symptoms to seek professional help and underscores the necessity for broader awareness and understanding of ADHD beyond childhood. By sharing his journey, Fahadh has taken a significant step in breaking the stigma associated with mental health issues and advocating for a more informed and compassionate approach to ADHD in adults.