Tom Grennan has opened up about his recent ADHD diagnosis and how he’s using it to fuel his new music. The British singer, known for his chart-topping hits, has been upfront about his personal challenges and has now shared that he has been diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. ADHD, which is commonly diagnosed in children and characterized by inattention and impulsivity, was something Grennan struggled with in school but wasn’t tested for at the time.
In an interview with The Sun on August 6, Grennan, 29, revealed, “I’ve got ADHD and I struggled with concentrating at school. I’ve just been told I’ve got ADHD. It wasn’t picked up at school. Maybe that’s why I sat there unable to focus.”
ADHD affects about 5% of children in the US and is more common in boys than girls in the UK. It often comes with challenges like anxiety, depression, and insomnia.
Grennan’s diagnosis comes as he’s working on a new album with producer Justin Tranter while staying in the US. On the Wonderbox podcast with Russell Howard, Grennan shared that his upcoming album dives deep into his personal struggles, including issues with alcohol, drugs, and family relationships. “I’ve opened up about my life, from being a kid to now, family and relationships,” he said. Grennan also revealed he is dyslexic.
Music has been a therapeutic outlet for Grennan, who began writing notes to cope with life’s challenges and eventually turned those notes into lyrics. He admitted to feeling overwhelmed and isolated at times, saying, “I couldn’t get out of bed, I thought the whole world was against me. I thought I wasn’t good enough.” This sense of struggle and isolation was transformed into music, helping him navigate his path to success.
Grennan’s relationship with his mother has improved, and he now openly discusses his mental health struggles, which he describes as a “sinking hole.” Therapy has played a crucial role in helping him understand and manage his thoughts. “It helped me direct these thoughts and put them into context,” he explained.
Despite the challenges, Grennan is committed to being honest with his fans about both his highs and lows. He believes that sharing his experiences can resonate with others who are facing similar issues.
Tom Grennan made his debut with the 2018 album Lighting Matches and has since released Evering Road in 2021 and What Ifs & Maybes in 2023.
