Chloe Kim embraces ADHD as a fuel for her Olympic success

Three-time Olympic medalist Chloe Kim revealed on October 20 that she received a diagnosis for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder seven months ago. The announcement comes as the athlete partners with pharmaceutical company Qelbree for a campaign titled Ms. Represented. The initiative aims to increase public understanding of how ADHD affects women and girls.

Kim, who is 26 years old, described the diagnosis as a source of clarity after years of confusion. She told the California Post that the confirmation provided a logical explanation for her past experiences. Before receiving the diagnosis, she often attributed her struggles to personal failings. She would question whether she was lazy, a poor listener, or a bad friend. These internal doubts led to negative self-talk and a feeling of being overwhelmed.

The athlete noted that she did not view the condition as a disadvantage in her professional snowboarding career. Instead, she credited her ADHD with fueling her intense focus and fixation on performance. She described her dedication to the sport as an obsession that helped her progress rapidly. However, she admitted that her life outside of snowboarding felt chaotic. She struggled with making plans, remembering commitments, and socializing with friends.

Kim is currently in a relationship with Los Angeles Rams edge rusher Myles Garrett. She shared how her condition has influenced their dynamic. She described herself as the more talkative partner, while Garrett is quieter. She recalled that he initially noticed how much she spoke. After her diagnosis, she said he was supportive and proud that she sought help. He noted that the diagnosis made sense for her personality.

The diagnosis has allowed Kim to manage daily tasks more effectively within the relationship. She cited a specific example involving grocery shopping. Previously, she would forget to buy cookies that Garrett requested and return with cheese that she preferred. Garrett, who dislikes that type of cheese, would be disappointed by the swap. Now, she manages to purchase both items, ensuring Garrett gets his cookies and she gets her cheese.

Kim emphasized that the diagnosis helped her validate her experiences rather than dismissing them as normal. She stated that knowing the reason behind her brain's unique functioning has been freeing. She feels more balanced and content in her personal life now that she is receiving treatment. The partnership with Qelbree seeks to share her story to reduce the stigma surrounding ADHD in women.

The athlete has won five ESPY Awards and three Olympic medals. Her latest comments come as part of a broader push to discuss mental health among high-profile female athletes. Kim said she believes ADHD is often misrepresented, which delayed her own diagnosis. She hopes her openness will encourage others to seek clarity and answers for their own challenges.