Emily Skye: 'I’m 39 and have just been diagnosed with ADHD'

Now she can finally help herself

In an exclusive with Body+Soul, fitness titan and mother of two Emily Skye shares about her experience with neurodiversity, hoping to open up the conversation for other women who may be struggling. 

Throughout my 39 years of life, I have felt different. 

I’ve felt constantly alone, anxious, overwhelmed, and just a general sense of not belonging. 

I have heard the terms “you’re too sensitive” and “stop overthinking” more times than I can count, and so I learned to navigate the world by masking and hiding parts of myself, hoping to fit into the mould of what society deemed 'normal'. 

For almost four decades, I just accepted that there was no explanation for why or how I feel this way– but then I hit a point where I realised, I couldn’t continue to live like this. 

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As someone with a digital platform, I have always made it a priority to be as real and honest as I possibly can. Sharing these details scares the sh*t out of me, but I'm compelled to share my journey, knowing the struggles many women face in seeking validation and understanding. I could easily paint a picture of sunshine, rainbows and lollipops all the time, but that would be far from the truth. 

I never anticipated that my quest for answers would lead me to the realm of neurodiversity. Through the guidance of a compassionate psychiatrist, I uncovered the truth: I've been living with undiagnosed ADHD all along. 

Hearing that news sent the most intense sense of relief through my whole body. As it was explained to me, my feelings and impulses started to make sense and I know now that those things cannot be controlled– they’re just part of how my brain functions. 

Skye's 10 million combined social followers are used to her sharing her life openly online, Image: Instagram/@emilyskyefit

During this period of testing and diagnosing, research has been something that I have found a lot of comfort in. One of the most interesting statistics that I discovered was that around one in twenty Australians have ADHD. However, it is much more difficult to diagnose females as it is easier for the system to mistake a neurological disorder and instead use labels such as low self-esteem, depression, or anxiety. 

Another very interesting fact that I discovered was that naturally, ADHD brains have low levels of norepinephrine (a neurotransmitter associated with dopamine), which helps control the brain’s pleasure and reward centre. A way in which professionals suggest helping increase these norepinephrine levels is through fitness. 

This detail made me laugh because I realised that I built an entire career around my love for health and fitness and have always been passionate about expressing how good exercising can make you feel both physically and mentally– it's as if my subconscious had been guiding me towards activities that nourish both body and mind all along. 

The link between fitness and ADHD regulation is something I have spent many hours reflecting on, and I am so grateful to 20-year-old me for making the decision to begin the journey that has now led me to such an incredible community of women through my Emily Skye FIT app. 

I now realise how the app’s structure, which emphasises consistency, mindfulness, and achievable goals, aligns with ADHD management strategies, and how the community aspect promotes a sense of belonging and encouragement, which is so important for those who are navigating neurodiversity. 

No one deserves to go through life feeling like a broken human, and the relief of being understood feels like the biggest weight is lifted off your entire body. 

Emily, her partner Dec, and their two children. Image: Supplied

I can finally help myself, and in turn be the best version of myself for my family. I am so thankful for my family and friends who accept and love me no matter what, and am especially grateful for my partner, Dec, who has stood by my side unconditionally for the past 14 years. 

ADHD isn't a label that defines me. I am wonderfully unique, just like every individual in this world. If you’re going through a tough Ame right now, remember that you’re never alone and are incredibly special. After all, who defines 'normal' in a world as wonderfully diverse as ours? 

With over 10 million followers across various social platforms, Emily Skye remains one of the world’s leading health and fitness authorities. Having spent the last 20 years studying and working alongside women in their pursuit of health and wellness, Emily has cultivated one of the world’s leading female communities through her Emily Skye FIT app.

Originally published as Emily Skye: 'I’m 39 and have just been diagnosed with ADHD'