Grimes, whose real name is Claire Elise Boucher, has recently opened up about her mental health, revealing that she was diagnosed with ADHD and autism in 2025. In a candid post on X dated March 22, Grimes shared her discoveries, stating, "Got diagnosed w adhd/ autism this year and realized I'm prob dyslexic which is why I can't spell at all without spellcheck." In her posts, she reflected on how her ADHD symptoms intensified when she wasn't reading actively, emphasizing the importance of literacy and its role in managing her symptoms.
In a follow-up message, the 37-year-old musician expressed, "I feel like, had we known this when I was a child I would have worked so much less hard, been on drugs...." This sentiment highlights her belief that societal expectations surrounding productivity can often overlook the nuanced experiences of those with neurodivergent conditions. Grimes shared her aspiration for a future where children diagnosed with conditions like ADHD and autism wouldn’t be pathologized but instead understood and supported in their unique learning journeys.
Adding to the dialogue surrounding mental health treatment, Grimes has publicly critiqued certain mental health accounts she considers "extreme infohazards," warning against the dangers of misinformation. Her observations come from her personal experiences and her ongoing passion for understanding mental health, informed by her background in neuroscience from McGill University.
However, her parenting experience has been complicated by her relationship with ex-partner Elon Musk. The couple shares three children: X Æ A-Xii, who is 4 years old, Exa Dark Sideræl, 3, and Techno Mechanicus, 2. Recently, Grimes expressed concern over the public exposure of their children, particularly highlighting how often Musk shares their oldest son with the media, stating, "I would really like people to stop posting images of my kid everywhere." This statement was made during an interview with TIME in February 2025, where Grimes called for more consent from parents regarding their children's representation in the public eye.
On the other hand, Musk has recently made headlines due to statements concerning their estranged daughter, Vivian Wilson, who came out as transgender in 2020. Musk tweeted remarks suggesting Vivian died due to the "woke mind virus," a comment that raised significant criticism. Wilson took to Instagram to respond to her father's tweet with a quote from RuPaul's Drag Race, humorously lip-syncing, "I look pretty good for a dead b*." This response reflected her feelings towards her father's controversial statements and their strained relationship.
Earlier this month, Wilson, who is currently living in Tokyo and studying to be a translator, opened up about her lack of communication with Musk, stating, "I don’t give a f about him." Her feelings of detachment were echoed in her assertion that she now prioritizes her own independence over the familial ties that once defined her relationship with Musk.
Vivian has also shared her thoughts regarding her father's many children, expressing uncertainty about her siblings saying, "I do not actually know how many siblings I have, if you include half-siblings. That's just a fun fact." With Musk being the father of 14 children, it's understandable how the growing family tree could feel overwhelming to the older ones.
In recent years, Musk has highlighted concerns over underpopulation, further complicating his public statements surrounding his role as a parent. This comes in the context of birthing new children; just recently, he welcomed two more children, Seldon Lycurgus and Arcadia, with Neuralink executive Shivon Zilis. The lack of acknowledgment towards these assertions from his children, particularly Vivian, has spotlighted the troubled dynamics within his family.
Against this backdrop of personal revelations, Grimes' and Vivian's experiences resonate deeply within the larger conversation around mental health, parenting, and the striking effects of public life. Their stories illustrate the diverse pathways children of high-profile individuals navigate in search of their identities and the challenges they face when grappling with both personal and familial expectations.
With ongoing discourse surrounding mental health awareness, Grimes' reflective journey invites questions about how society approaches neurodiversity and the experiences of individuals who grapple with their identities in the shadow of public scrutiny. Meanwhile, Vivian's bold attempts to redefine her existence separate from her father's legacy indicate a powerful message: identity transcends surname, calling attention to the necessity of authentic self-acceptance and independence.
Amidst the noise and complexities of their lives, both women serve as reminders of the importance of compassion and understanding in a world that often overlooks the nuances of mental health and identity. It underscores the necessity for evolving conversations and frameworks that can empower those navigating these often overwhelming realms.
