Simon Pegg has opened up about his recent ADHD diagnosis and revealed how it has helped him understand the lifelong struggles he's faced, which he previously blamed on character flaws.
The NHS describes ADHD as a condition affecting brain function, impacting focus, impulse control and the ability to remain still. ADHD Ireland notes the main symptoms are inattentiveness, impulsiveness and hyperactivity.
What Simon Pegg Said About His Diagnosis
The 56-year-old Mission Impossible, Star Trek and Shaun Of The Dead actor discussed his condition on the I'm ADHD! No You're Not podcast. Simon sought out a diagnosis because he "just wanted to know" after years of suspicion.
The actor said: "It confirmed a lot of stuff that I'd been wrestling with, and that I'd been attributing to just character fault."
Childhood and Family Support
Simon revealed that the diagnosis has helped him reframe his childhood experiences and admitted he "did feel different" back then but couldn't put his finger on why. He initially thought ADHD only affected "chaotic and difficult" children who didn't pay attention in school.
Pegg said his wife has been supportive, "dealing with it as if I'd been diagnosed ages ago" and making allowances for his forgetfulness and concentration issues.
Mental Health and Fan Response
The actor has previously been open about his mental health struggles, including depression and alcohol issues, and said he was "bowled over" by fans' positive responses to his honesty.
