Jools Oliver Diagnosed with Autism and ADHD
Jamie Oliver's wife details decades-long struggle and health anxiety following recent neurodivergence revelations.
Callum Smith
Jools Oliver has revealed diagnoses of autism and ADHD.
Severe health anxiety leaves her too scared to begin treatment.
The discovery that some of her children had autism prompted Oliver to seek her own diagnosis. She states, "But we found out a couple of our children had autism. So then I thought, my god, that sounds like me. So I went for that. I've got that as well."
This shared experience fosters a deeper connection with her children. Oliver confirms, "There's such a bond in understanding with the ones that do have autism because I can go, 'Yeah, I get you. I got it. I understand completely.'"
There's such a bond in understanding with the ones that do have autism because I can go, 'Yeah, I get you. I got it. I understand completely.'
Jamie Oliver previously discussed his wife's neurodivergence on Davina McCall's podcast. The couple met as teenagers in 1993, maintaining a relationship for 33 years, and married in 2000.
NHS England figures estimate nearly 2.5 million people in England have ADHD. Jools Oliver reflects on her experience, stating, "I just think it’s quite draining. I think it’s tiring. I think, actually, it’s ruined, so far, 45 years of my life thinking it’s something else. It’s no superpower. It’s just a drain and it’s just really hard work."
Despite having the medication, her health anxiety remains a significant barrier. She confirms, "I've got the medication, but I don't want to take it because I'm scared due to health anxiety that something will happen. It's just one ongoing situation."