In a personal essay for Teen Vogue published on October 5, the 43-year-old reality TV star discussed how her ADHD symptoms led to her being sent to a troubled teen facility and how her later diagnosis helped her accept her differences.
In the essay, Hilton said, "Growing up, I was often told I was too energetic, too distracted, too talkative — just too much."
Hilton stated that her "constant need" for stimulation and difficulties at a school that couldn't meet her needs ultimately resulted in her enrollment at Provo Canyon School, where she experienced severe abuse, which she has discussed extensively before.
Hilton expressed, "I wish someone had asked, 'What’s really going on with her?' Instead, I felt misunderstood and punished for how my brain worked for years. It wasn't until later in life that I realized what was truly happening," before addressing how ADHD is often undiagnosed in women and girls.
Hilton wrote that initially, her diagnosis felt like a label that confined her, defining her by her limitations and differences. She kept it hidden, fearing others would see her as scattered or incapable of success. However, she realized that these challenges also reveal positive traits: creativity, passion, resilience, and a mind that thinks in bold, unexpected ways.
For the mother of two, ADHD is not a "limitation" but a "superpower."
Hilton wrote, "It's my secret weapon in a world that often encourages us to play it safe."
She added, "My brain doesn’t follow a straight line; it zigzags and explores new paths, enabling me to break boundaries and stay ahead. ADHD helps me anticipate trends, fuels my creativity to build an empire, drives me to push limits, and allows me to connect with people more deeply."
Hilton stated that the neurodevelopmental disorder enables her to hyper-focus on her passions, including her work and family.
In the essay, she wrote, "Since my brain thrives on newness, bold ideas, and innovation, I view the world as full of possibilities and have learned to embrace that energy."
She added, "But let's be honest: ADHD can be overwhelming and exhausting due to my constantly buzzing thoughts, ideas, and distractions. While people often see my glamorous, successful side, there are days when the noise in my head is so loud that it’s hard to find clarity."
Hilton learned to support herself through her ADHD diagnosis by giving herself "grace" and building a supportive network. However, she continues to advocate for a change in how our culture views ADHD.
She wrote, "The stigma around ADHD and neurodivergence must change. We're often expected to fit into boxes and follow the rules, but my ADHD has shown me that amazing things happen when you break those expectations. We should stop labeling neurodivergent individuals as 'disordered' and start acknowledging their unique gifts."
Hilton's music album Infinite Icon, released on September 6—nearly two decades after her 2006 self-titled debut—includes a song called "ADHD," which celebrates her journey and conveys that ADHD is something to be embraced, not hidden.
Hilton wrote, "I want people, especially young women, to understand that being different is beautiful and that your 'flaws' can be your greatest assets. I've faced challenges, but ADHD has given me an inner strength and confidence that nothing can take away," while discussing her advocacy through her nonprofit, 11:11 Media Impact.
She concluded the essay by saying, "To anyone struggling with ADHD or any challenge, know that you are not alone and not defined by your diagnosis. Embrace your differences, as they make you unstoppable."
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