Helen George, the beloved star of Call the Midwife, has stunned fans with a revelation that has been four years in the making. Known for her role as Nurse Trixie Franklin in the hit BBC One series, Helen’s personal journey has taken an unexpected turn as she shares a life-changing health diagnosis with the world – and explains why she kept it hidden for so long.
In a candid conversation on the I’m ADHD! No You’re Not podcast, Helen, now 41, opened up about her battle with ADHD – a condition she didn’t recognize in herself until a transformative moment after the birth of her second child. It was at that moment that everything began to make sense.
“I had no idea I was living with ADHD until after I had my second child,” Helen shared, reflecting on her life before and after the diagnosis. “It was a light bulb moment, and that’s when I knew something wasn’t quite right.”
For years, Helen had brushed off her struggles, attributing them to the high demands of her career and family life. But after hearing a close friend describe his own experiences with ADHD, everything clicked into place for her. “I sat down with a friend who had ADHD, and he described what it was like for women, particularly those with children. And that’s when it hit me – this is me.”
With this newfound understanding, Helen sought medical attention, and soon after, she received her diagnosis. “It was such a relief to finally put a name to what I was feeling,” she admitted.
Helen shares two daughters, Wren Ivy, eight, and Lark, four, with her ex-partner and former Call the Midwife co-star, Jack Ashton. The two separated in 2023, a year marked by significant personal changes for Helen, including her ADHD diagnosis.
What is ADHD?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition that affects a person’s ability to focus, regulate their impulses, and manage energy levels. While it is often diagnosed in childhood, many adults go undiagnosed, especially women, who may not display the same symptoms as men. ADHD can cause challenges with concentration, organization, and time management. Hyperactivity and impulsiveness are also key characteristics of the disorder.
While ADHD can be overwhelming at times, Helen is also embracing the positive aspects of the condition. She believes that her ADHD has contributed to her creativity and passion for acting. “I’ve always thought I was a bit ‘crazy’ because of my career, but now I understand that it’s not that at all – it’s just ADHD.”
As Helen reflects on her journey, she notes the challenges she faced in coming to terms with her diagnosis. “Before I knew, I just thought everyone was as chaotic as me, but now I realize it’s a real thing,” she explained. “I’m still figuring out what it means for me, but I’m learning how to manage it, and medication has helped.”
Despite her diagnosis, Helen is hopeful about the future and her ability to manage ADHD. “I’d love to get off the medication at some point, but I know it’s about finding what works for me right now,” she said. “I think the world doesn’t always make room for people with ADHD, but that doesn’t mean we can’t thrive. It’s about finding the right support.”
A New Chapter in Helen’s Personal Life
In addition to her health struggles, Helen has been navigating changes in her personal life. Last year, she went public with her new relationship with boyfriend Dan Innes, and the couple has since moved in together. Sharing their love on Instagram, Helen posted a sweet photo from a country weekend getaway in March 2025. The pair’s bond has brought Helen renewed joy and support, which she says has been crucial in her journey to self-discovery.
Helen’s upcoming projects also show no sign of slowing down. She will soon take the stage in London’s West End, where she will star as glamorous socialite Tracy Lord in Cole Porter’s High Society. The production, set to debut at the Barbican in May 2026, marks an exciting new chapter in her career as she continues to explore new creative horizons.
What is Neurodiversity?
Helen’s story sheds light on the importance of understanding and accepting neurodiversity – a term that refers to the natural variation in human brain functioning. Neurodiversity encompasses conditions like ADHD, autism, and dyslexia, and it calls for society to embrace these differences rather than view them as deficits. People with ADHD often possess unique strengths such as hyperfocus, creativity, and problem-solving abilities.
For Helen, her diagnosis has been an eye-opening experience, and she encourages others to seek help if they’re struggling with similar challenges. “The support is there if you know where to look,” she said. “And it’s never too late to find out what works for you.”
Helen’s journey has not been easy, but her openness about her ADHD diagnosis is helping to break the stigma surrounding mental health and neurodiversity. As Helen continues to thrive in her career and personal life, her story is a reminder that it’s never too late to seek help and embrace who you truly are.
For more on Helen George’s incredible journey and upcoming projects, visit the full article here: Daily Mail.
Source: Daily Mail
