Snowboarder Chloe Kim shares how ADHD diagnosis changed her daily routine

Seven months ago, three-time Olympic medalist Chloe Kim received a diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The 26-year-old snowboarder described the moment as the most freeing experience of her recent life. She told The California Post that finally understanding the cause of her daily challenges ended years of self-doubt. Kim noted that her brain is special and fun but sometimes requires specific guidance.

Kim said the diagnosis arrived after a long period of confusion. She explained that she previously blamed herself for feeling overwhelmed. She often told herself she was lazy or a poor listener. Now she understands those feelings were part of her neurological makeup. Kim, a five-time ESPY Award winner, said the diagnosis validated her experiences. She no longer feels dismissed as merely being normal or stressed.

The athlete is currently promoting the Qelbree campaign Ms. Represented. The initiative aims to increase visibility for women and girls living with ADHD. Kim believes the condition is widely misrepresented. This misperception delayed her own diagnosis. She said she needed clarity and answers. Receiving the diagnosis made her life much more logical.

Kim said her ADHD has had a dual effect on her life. In snowboarding, she described the condition as a superpower. Her focus and fixation on her sport drove her progress. She was able to dedicate herself fully to becoming the best. However, life outside of snowboarding felt like a mess. She struggled to make plans and remember them. She also had difficulty hanging out with friends without feeling exhausted.

Kim admitted she was not in a good mental place before the diagnosis. She spent years disappointed in herself. She is now more balanced and content. She credits her treatment for helping her manage her day-to-day activities. She also shared how the condition affects her relationship with Myles Garrett, the Los Angeles Rams edge rusher. Kim described herself as the more vocal partner. Garrett is the quiet one.

Garrett supported Kim when she received the diagnosis. He told her it made sense for her. He expressed pride in her decision to seek help. Kim noted that their dynamic has not changed drastically. She is simply better at completing tasks that involve him. She used grocery shopping as an example. She would forget to buy the cookies Garrett requested. Instead, she would return with the cheese she wanted.

Kim recalled Garrett's disappointed face when the cookies were missing. He does not enjoy that type of cheese. Now, the routine works for both of them. Garrett gets his cookies, and Kim gets her cheese.