Ant McPartlin, 43, and his comedy partner Declan Donnelly, 43 have always been known as the happy-go-lucky comedy duo, but McPartlin’s health has taken a turn for the worst over the last couple of years. The TV favourite wrestled with an addiction to prescription drugs, along with alcohol, following a knee operation back in 2015. This set off a downward spiral of events which culminated in a road traffic collision in 2018, after which he was arrested and later charged for drink-driving. During his recovery period it was revealed that the TV star had been living with ADHD.
There are a lot of links to alcohol-dependency
Ant McPartlin
Speaking to The Sun, he said: “I never knew that until afterwards.
“I was so thoroughly examined and diagnosed, I found stuff out about me I hadn’t addressed for years.
“There are a lot of links to alcohol-dependency, which I studied a lot when I was away.”
Following his diagnosis, Ant reflected on the struggles of others facing the same mental struggles.
He said: “There will be so many others who will be struggling and my heart goes out to them.”
What is ADHD?
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a behavioural disorder that includes symptoms such as inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsiveness.
According to the NHS: “Symptoms of ADHD tend to be noticed at an early age and may become more noticeable when a child’s circumstances change, such as when they start school.
“Most cases are diagnosed when children are six to 12 years old.
“The symptoms of ADHD usually improve with age, but many adults who were diagnosed with the condition at a young age continue to experience problems.
“People with ADHD may also have additional problems, such as sleep and anxiety disorders.”
How to treat it
As the NHS explained, there is currently no cure for the condition but it can be managed with appropriate educational support, advice and support for parents and affected children, alongside medication, if necessary.
“Medicine is often the first treatment offered to adults with ADHD, although psychological therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) may also help,” said the health body.
There are 5 types of medication licensed for the treatment of ADHD:
- Methylphenidate
- Dexamfetamine
- Lisdexamfetamine
- Atomoxetine
- Guanfacine
These medications are not a permanent cure for ADHD but may help someone with the condition concentrate better, be less impulsive, feel calmer, and learn and practise new skills.
ADHD is sometimes best managed with an holistic approach. As well as taking medication, different therapies can be useful in treating ADHD in children, teenagers and adults.
Therapy is also effective in treating additional problems, such as conduct or anxiety disorders, that may appear with ADHD.
Pyschoeducation is one approach.
As the NHS explained: “Psychoeducation means you or your child will be encouraged to discuss ADHD and its effects.
It can help children, teenagers and adults make sense of being diagnosed with ADHD, and can help you to cope and live with the condition.”
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