Alia Bhatt opens up about being diagnosed with ADHD: What changes in the body?

Alia Bhatt, one of Bollywood’s most celebrated actors, recently opened up about her struggles with mental health. She revealed that despite her belief in being an excellent multitasker, she began experiencing memory lapses, focus issues, and even physical reactions in social situations. Her journey highlights the importance of mental health awareness and seeking professional help. But what exactly changes in the body with ADHD, and how can one manage it effectively?
How Alia Bhatt discovered she had ADHD and anxiety

The ‘Jigra’ actress explained in an interview on Jay Shetty’s podcast that she was given a diagnosis of anxiety and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) after observing odd changes in her body and attitude. When Alia discovered that her body heated up during social events and that she was having trouble concentrating on everyday duties, her mental health issues became evident. Concerns were raised when she discovered that she was forgetting even the simplest things. She completed a three-day professional test to have a better understanding of her condition, and the results showed that she was diagnosed with anxiety and ADHD.
She explained how the diagnosis gave her relief, as she now had clarity on why she was feeling a certain way. “The minute I was aware of these things, it actually made dealing with them much simpler,” she shared. Unlike many who rely on medication, Alia chose to manage her condition through lifestyle changes and active self-awareness.

What changes in the body due to ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that impacts focus, memory, and emotional regulation. Some of the changes Alia and many others with ADHD might experience include:
- Cognitive challenges: Difficulty in maintaining focus, frequent forgetfulness, and struggling with multitasking.
- Physical symptoms: Increased heart rate, excessive sweating, and physical discomfort in high-pressure social situations.
- Emotional responses: Increased anxiety, mood swings, and feeling overwhelmed in daily life.
- Energy levels: ADHD can cause hyperactivity or extreme fatigue, leading to fluctuating energy levels throughout the day.
- Brain chemistry imbalance: ADHD is linked to dopamine dysregulation, making tasks that require long attention spans particularly challenging.

What should you do if you experience similar symptoms?
If you are facing focus issues, forgetfulness, anxiety, or physical reactions to stress, it is essential to seek professional help. Here’s what you can do:
- Go get a professional evaluation: First and foremost, ADHD and anxiety can be diagnosed via constructed exams performed by mental health professionals.
- Develop good coping mechanisms: Regular exercise, meditation, and enough sleep can all help you manage your symptoms more successfully.
- Consider therapy: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and other types of psychotherapy can help you focus and manage stress.
- Use organisational tools: Calendars, reminder applications, and to-do lists can help you keep track of key things.
- Educate yourself: Learning about ADHD will help you understand your issues and find the strategies that work best for you.
If you or someone you know is struggling with similar symptoms, remember that help is available, and addressing it early can make all the difference.