Helen George, the acclaimed actress known for her role as Trixie in the BBC drama Call the Midwife, has publicly disclosed her diagnosis with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) for the first time, after keeping it a secret for nearly four years. In an emotional and candid interview on the podcast I'm ADHD! No You're Not, George revealed the personal journey that led to her diagnosis and her ongoing process of understanding and managing the condition.
The Revelation on a Popular Podcast
Speaking to Dr. Mine Conkbayir, a neuroscience specialist, and comedian Paul Whitehouse, Helen George shared that she received her ADHD diagnosis approximately three and a half years ago, following the birth of her second child. She admitted, "I've spent my whole life covering it up," highlighting the stigma and challenges often associated with neurodevelopmental conditions. The interview marks the launch of the podcast's fifth season, which focuses on ADHD awareness and personal stories.
A Life-Changing 'Lightbulb Moment'
George described a pivotal conversation with a male friend who has ADHD as the catalyst for her diagnosis. "He was describing females and women who have children and them being diagnosed later in life," she explained. "And he was telling me all this, and I suddenly went, 'Oh shit, just like me.' It's like the light bulb moment that I needed." This realization prompted her to seek professional evaluation, something she had never considered before, attributing her traits to the eccentricities of acting.
Navigating ADHD and Considering Medication
Reflecting on her current perspective, George acknowledged that she is still in the early stages of understanding how ADHD affects her life. "I think I'm still finding them because it feels relatively new," she said, noting the ongoing adjustment to her diagnosis. She revealed that she is now actively considering medication as a support tool, stating, "I don't think this world provides the necessary support that we need. So therefore, whilst it doesn't, I would like to take medication to see if that aids me." She emphasized that this decision is part of a broader effort to function effectively, especially in her roles as a mother and professional.
Personal Life and Career Context
Helen George, 41, has been a fan favourite on Call the Midwife since its inception. Beyond television, she has appeared on Strictly Come Dancing in 2015 and performed in West End productions, including The King and I in 2024. Her personal life has seen significant changes; she was previously married to actor Oliver Boot until 2015, then dated co-star Jack Ashton, with whom she shares two daughters, before their split in 2023. Since 2025, she has been in a relationship with real estate consultant Dan Innes.
The Broader Impact and Awareness
ADHD is a common neurodevelopmental condition characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, often diagnosed in adulthood for women, as George's story illustrates. Her openness aims to reduce stigma and encourage others to seek help. The podcast I'm ADHD! No You're Not features previous guests like Robbie Williams and Stephen Fry, contributing to a growing dialogue about mental health. Season five launches with new episodes available weekly on all major podcast platforms.
George concluded by framing her journey as a learning process, saying, "It's learning about yourself and learning about what's gonna work for you and what's not... I've got to work out how you can function best so that you can mother best so that their lives can be the best that they can be." Her story underscores the importance of self-discovery and support in managing ADHD, resonating with many who face similar challenges.
