Bollywood star Alia Bhatt recently disclosed her diagnosis of ADHD—Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder—during an interview with The Lallantop. She explained that while the diagnosis, determined through a psychological test, was not a surprise to her friends, it brought her clarity regarding her challenges and strengths.
Reflecting on how ADHD has influenced her behavior since childhood, Bhatt mentioned that she often “zoned out” during conversations. “I have been zoning out since I was a child. Whether in the classroom or mid-conversation, I would zone out. It was only after taking a psychological test that I realized I have ADHD; my spectrum is quite high,” she stated.
She added, “When I shared this with my friends, they said they had known for a long time; it wasn’t a big revelation because of my personality. I replied, ‘But I didn’t know.'”
Bhatt noted that ADHD affects her ability to fully engage in daily activities and maintain focus for extended periods. However, she identified two instances where she feels the most grounded and present. “I understand why I feel so at peace when I’m in front of the camera. I remain present in those moments,” she explained.
She continued, “I’m not sure if it’s the character or what, but I feel more connected at that time. And of course, after Raha was born, being with her makes me feel the most present. Those moments bring me peace and mental clarity.”
In a previous discussion about her ADHD with Allure Magazine, Bhatt stated, “I have ADHD and prefer things to happen quickly. On my wedding day, my makeup artist Puneet [B Saini] said I needed to give her two hours. I told her, ‘You’ve lost it. Especially on my wedding day, I’m not spending two hours because I want to relax.'”
Understanding ADHD
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by symptoms such as impulsivity, difficulty focusing, and hyperactivity, as noted by Healthline. Although it is commonly diagnosed in childhood, many individuals continue to experience its effects into adulthood.
ADHD can impact executive functions, leading to challenges such as procrastination, forgetfulness, and time management issues. However, people with ADHD can also experience periods of intense focus, known as hyperfocus, which aligns with Bhatt’s observation of feeling at peace while engaged in her work.
Research into ADHD indicates that dopamine regulation and prefrontal cortex activity are key factors in these behaviors. These neurological aspects can result in both creative surges and difficulty maintaining attention on less stimulating tasks. Some common behaviors associated with ADHD include:
- Difficulty concentrating on mundane tasks
- Hyper-focusing on a task to the extent of neglecting other responsibilities
- Forgetfulness
- Difficulty sitting still
- Interrupting conversations
- Sensitivity to rejection
Individuals with ADHD may also overlook details when studying or working due to challenges in maintaining focus while listening, reading, or conversing. Additionally, they may struggle with organizing daily tasks and frequently misplace items, often getting distracted by minor events happening around them.
It’s important to note that the symptoms a person exhibits can vary based on the type of ADHD they have. This article serves to inform about the basics of ADHD but is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
