Malayalam actor Fahadh Faasil said he was clinically diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) at the age of 41.
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects the brain’s ability to regulate attention, behaviour and impulse control. It is common in children but can also affect adults.
These symptoms can further contribute to less productivity, leading to low self-esteem and mistrust of one’s abilities.
After spending time at the Peace Valley Children’s Village in Kothamangalam, Kerala, on Sunday, Fahadh, said that, while roaming around the village – an institute focused on rehabilitating children with special needs – he asked a doctor whether it was easy to cure ADHD.
“He told me it can be easily cured if it is diagnosed at a young age,” said the 41-year-old actor.
His statement comes after his Malayalam film Aavesham garnered widespread critical acclaim upon its release on April 11. Critics lauded its direction and outstanding performances, particularly by Fahadh and Sajin Gopu.
Known for his compelling performances in films like Malik, Joji, Vikram and Maamannan, Fahadh’s confession and openness about his diagnosis has sent shockwaves in the film Industry, especially in the South, leaving his fans downhearted by the news.
Fahadh has enjoyed a successful 2024, with Premalu, co-produced by him, also a box-office hit.
According to the World Health Organisation, ADHD is “one of the most common mental disorders” that “affects 8 per cent of children, mostly boys, and often lasts into adulthood”.
Yet, ADHD has remained highly underdiagnosed in many parts of the world, including India.
Initially considered a “childhood problem”, an increasing number of adults have been approaching mental health professionals to address its symptoms.
According to The World Federation of ADHD International Consensus Statement, the disorder occurs in 5.9 per cent of youth and 2.5 per cent of adults.
Mental health experts in Kerala also point out that chances of mis- and under-diagnosis are higher for adults.
