Canadian musician Grimes, known for her eclectic style and artistic prowess, has recently opened up about her diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder. In a candid reflection shared on her social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Grimes, whose real name is Claire Elise Boucher, discussed how these conditions have shaped her life and creativity.
On March 21, 2025, Grimes revealed that she had received her ADHD and autism diagnoses earlier in the year. In her post, she expressed a sense of regret that these diagnoses had not come sooner, stating, "Got diagnosed (with) adhd/ autism this year and realized I'm (probably) dyslexic which is why I can't spell at all without spellcheck." She elaborated on how understanding her conditions earlier could have significantly altered her childhood experiences, saying, "I feel like, had we known this when I was a child, I would have worked so much less hard, been on drugs, and so many of the weird obsessions and motivations I had would have been seen as pathological." Grimes emphasized her gratitude for overcoming these challenges, noting, "I could have written off certain things that were very hard for me, but I'm glad I overcame them."
Grimes's reflections highlight the complexities of living with ADHD, particularly as an adult. Symptoms of adult ADHD can include impulsiveness, disorganization, poor time management, and difficulty focusing. Grimes noted that her symptoms were exacerbated when she wasn't engaged in reading, a habit she credits as crucial to managing her ADHD. "My adhd symptoms were infinitely worse when I wasn't an avid reader," she stated.
In her posts, Grimes also expressed concern about the increasing number of ADHD diagnoses among children today and the reliance on stimulant medications. With her background in neuroscience from McGill University, she cautioned against the trend, suggesting that it may be contributing to declining literacy rates. She urged for a more balanced approach to mental health treatment, advocating for the importance of reading and independent learning as beneficial coping mechanisms for ADHD.
Grimes also touched upon her struggles with dyslexia, a learning disability that affects reading and writing skills. She articulated how this condition intertwined with her ADHD, complicating her educational journey. "I probably would have been drugged too," she mused, reflecting on how medication might have affected her life had she been diagnosed as a child.
In addition to her personal revelations, Grimes has been vocal about the need for caution regarding self-diagnosis of developmental disorders. She warned against the spread of misinformation in the mental health community on social media, particularly from accounts that pathologize normal behaviors associated with ADHD. "An ADHD account trying to pathologize one of the best things a child can do to help with ADHD (and also become an autodidact and knowledgeable person) is so dark... I can't even begin," she remarked.
Grimes's journey through her mental health challenges has been further complicated by her role as a mother. She shares three children with Elon Musk: X Æ A-Xii, who is 4 years old, Exa Dark Sideræl, 3, and Techno Mechanicus, 2. Recently, she has expressed her desire to protect her children's privacy amid the public scrutiny that comes with their father's celebrity status. She has taken to social media to plead with Musk to keep their children out of the limelight, stating, "I would really like people to stop posting images of my kid everywhere. I think fame is something you should consent to."
Grimes's advocacy for her children's privacy reflects her broader concerns about the impact of public life on mental health, both for herself and her family. She has criticized the media's portrayal of her family and the pressure that comes with being in the public eye.
As Grimes continues to navigate her diagnoses and their implications, she remains an influential figure in the music industry and a voice for those facing similar struggles. Her openness about ADHD, autism, and dyslexia serves to raise awareness and foster understanding of these conditions, encouraging others to seek help and embrace their unique experiences.
In her posts, Grimes has not only shared her personal journey but has also sparked a conversation about mental health, the importance of early diagnosis, and the need for supportive environments for individuals with ADHD and autism. As society becomes more aware of these challenges, figures like Grimes are crucial in advocating for change and understanding.
Grimes's story resonates with many who may have faced similar challenges, and her willingness to share her experiences encourages others to reflect on their own mental health journeys. Her advocacy highlights the importance of compassion and understanding in addressing the complexities of ADHD and autism, paving the way for a more informed and supportive dialogue around these issues.
