Reality TV star and reigning I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! king Sam Thompson has bravely revealed the profound emotional impact of receiving an adult ADHD diagnosis, describing the moment as utterly "devastating."
The 34-year-old, known for his boundless energy on Made In Chelsea and his triumphant jungle win, shared his deeply personal story on his new podcast, ‘Staying Relevant’. He confessed that the diagnosis initially felt like a life sentence rather than an explanation.
The Moment Everything Changed
"I remember when I got diagnosed, I was devastated. I was like, 'Oh my god, I've got a thing,'" Sam revealed to his co-host and friend, Pete Wicks. He described a wave of fear and confusion, worrying that his entire personality was merely a symptom of a condition.
"It's not a thing," he explained, reflecting on his journey to understanding. "It's just the way that your brain is wired and you can get help for the bits that you find tricky and you can lean into the bits that are really good."
From Devastation to Empowerment
Sam's perspective transformed from one of shock to one of acceptance and empowerment. He now sees his ADHD not as a limitation, but as the source of his unique strengths and infectious enthusiasm.
"I love the way that my brain works now. I really, really do," he stated emphatically. He credits his diagnosis with helping him understand his past struggles, particularly in his academic years, where he felt he was constantly "failing at everything."
A Supportive Partner and a Bright Future
The star also spoke fondly of the support from his girlfriend, Zara McDermott, whom he met on the set of Made In Chelsea. While the couple currently have no plans to marry, Sam gushed about their strong relationship and future together, potentially including children.
His story is a powerful testament to reframing mental health challenges. By embracing his neurodiversity, Sam Thompson has not only found peace but has also become an inspiration for others navigating similar paths.
