Joe Swash has revealed that his ADHD has taken 'more of a grip' on his life, prompting him to seek medical help again after stopping his medication a year ago. The 44-year-old former EastEnders star shared his struggles in a candid Instagram post, describing a recent family holiday where he forgot his wife Stacey Solomon's suitcase, left his iPad on a plane, and missed a flight back.
In his April 28 post, Swash said: 'Now, in hindsight, I know is a bad idea so I'm sort of gonna start the journey again from scratch.' He expressed determination to manage his condition 'properly' this time and pledged to keep fans updated. On May 7, he posted on Instagram stories that he had an appointment with his doctor to discuss next steps.
ADHD affects brain functions related to memory, concentration, and impulse control. Symptoms fall into two categories: inattentive (forgetfulness, distraction, poor time management) and hyperactive (restlessness, excessive talking, impulsivity). The NHS notes that most people experience both types, but women are more likely to have inattentive symptoms, which can be harder to spot.
Without proper support, ADHD can strain careers, education, and relationships. Management options include lifestyle changes (routine, exercise, avoiding caffeine), workplace adjustments, talking therapies like CBT, and medications such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine. The NHS advises that patients may need to try more than one medication to find what works.
