Sarah, Duchess of York has revealed she was left wondering whether she might have ADHD (adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) following a visit to a Swiss mental health clinic.
The Duchess made the admission after spending time at Paracelsus Recovery in Zurich, where she met with specialists, including the clinic's lead psychiatrist, Dr Thilo Beck.
Writing in the Telegraph, she said the clinic's insights into conditions including "adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder" had "left an indelible mark" on her.
The 65-year-old has become increasingly open about her mental health struggles, acknowledging she has "always known there were issues I needed to address."
Sarah Ferguson left wondering about ADHD as Duchess of York makes candid admission.
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She explained: "A lot has been written about ADHD in recent years, and I’ve sometimes wondered whether there might be signs of it in me.
"Dr Beck explained how adult ADHD often presents as chronic disorganisation, impulsivity and difficulties in maintaining focus, which can be misinterpreted as character flaws rather than a neurological condition."
The Duchess visited Paracelsus Recovery as a guest, describing it as "a sanctuary" renowned for treating mental health and addiction issues, particularly for those in public roles.
The clinic is named after a 16th-century Swiss physician who pioneered humane treatment for mental illness.
Sarah Ferguson is the mother of Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie.GettyShe praised the clinic's chief executive and founder, Jan Gerber, alongside Dr Beck, stating: "Their insights into conditions such as complex post-traumatic stress disorder, adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and the need for mental health advocacy have left an indelible mark on me and made me determined to do more."
The Duchess expressed particular concern about the mental health crisis affecting young people, citing "escalating rates of anxiety, depression and other wellbeing issues in the next generation."
She attributed this crisis to "a combination of social, economic, and digital factors, compounded by the many challenges people face in accessing timely and effective support."
Her experience at the Swiss clinic has strengthened her resolve to use her platform for mental health advocacy.
Sarah Ferguson lives with Prince Andrew in the Royal Lodge.
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Getty"As a mother, a public figure, and someone who has experienced the profound challenges of mental health, I have always believed in the power of openness, kindness and compassion," she wrote.
The Duchess revealed that her mental health exploration was prompted by multiple factors, including issues "stemming from my childhood and my time in the public eye." She also disclosed being "diagnosed with cancer, twice in the same year," which she acknowledged would be challenging for anyone's mental and physical wellbeing.
Despite the difficulties, she emphasised her commitment to emotional wellness, stating: "I've always worked hard on my emotional wellbeing."
The Duchess admitted that "being open about the struggles I have faced has not always been easy," but maintained her belief in addressing these challenges directly.
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