Denise Welch from the popular show “Loose Women” recently revealed that she had underestimated a health condition she was diagnosed with. In addition to her well-known battle with depression, she discovered in 2022 that she also has ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, which affects brain function and can manifest in symptoms like difficulty focusing, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
The 67-year-old actress learned about her ADHD after undergoing an assessment prompted by her colleague Nadia Sawalha’s own diagnosis. Denise expressed how she had always associated her struggles with depression and had not considered any other underlying issues. After a breakdown last year, she began medication for ADHD, realizing the significant impact it had alongside her depression.
Reflecting on her journey, Denise mentioned that earlier awareness of her condition could have helped her understand it better, especially in relation to postnatal depression, which she experienced after the birth of her first child, Matty Healy.
Describing her past coping mechanisms, Denise revealed that her dependency on cocaine began in her late thirties as a desperate attempt to alleviate her depression. Despite her initial aversion to drugs in her twenties, she turned to substances to cope with her mental health struggles.
Having been clean for over a decade now, Denise highlighted the similarity in effect between her ADHD medication and past substance use in managing her depression. She emphasized the importance of seeking professional help if one suspects they are dealing with depression or ADHD, recommending consultation with a GP for guidance and support.
For those facing similar challenges, Denise’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking help and treatment for mental health conditions.
