Christine McGuinness has candidly discussed her autism diagnosis, admitting she once blamed herself for feeling 'different' before understanding her condition. The TV personality and model, married to comedian Paddy McGuinness, revealed the emotional toll of growing up undiagnosed.
A Lifetime of Misunderstanding
'I spent years thinking it was my fault,' Christine confessed. 'I didn't understand why I struggled with things others found easy.' The 34-year-old explained how she masked her symptoms for decades, developing coping mechanisms to fit in.
The Turning Point
Her diagnosis came after recognising similar traits in her three autistic children. 'Suddenly everything made sense,' she said. 'All those moments of feeling overwhelmed in social situations or needing strict routines - they weren't flaws, just how my brain works.'
Breaking the Stigma
Christine is now using her platform to challenge misconceptions about autism, particularly in women who are often misdiagnosed. 'We need more understanding,' she urged. 'Autistic women present differently, and many go their whole lives without proper support.'
The star hopes her honesty will encourage others to seek diagnosis, adding: 'Knowing has changed everything. I'm finally learning to be kind to myself.'
