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Ben Fogle reveals shock health diagnosis as broadcaster opens up about his ‘mental health crisis’
Ben also revealed how his new show helped him overcome the tough period
BEN Fogle has revealed he's been diagnosed with ADHD as he discussed his 'mental health crisis' last year.
The broadcaster and adventurer has spoken honestly about his diagnosis for the first time.
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Ben, who shot to fame when he appeared on reality show the Castaway in 2000, took to social media to share the news.
He bravely wrote: "I have recently been diagnosed with ADHD *cue eye rolling* I admit to my own cynicism but the reality is that I have changed neurologically.
"A recent mental health storm was the catalyst for my diagnosis. I feel different and have done for some time.
"Some aspects of life had become more of a struggle, but with a diagnosis comes understanding and reason. Maybe it is my age or perhaps a symptom of something more complex in wider society."
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He added: "Neurological individuality makes me who I am and I am proud of that. To have a clinical diagnosis helps me understand who I am. It explains my weaknesses as well as my strengths. Love, peace and individuality."
In an exclusive chat with The Sun, Ben added that his diagnosis means he experiences intense emotion.
The 50-year-old explained: "I've been recently diagnosed with ADHD and what that means is I have really strong emotions.
"It's why I cry so easily. But that means I don't just like someone I love someone."
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It's evident in his upcoming Channel 5 three-part series where he spends a week in the Congo.
After being given a royal welcome by natives, Ben was left in tears on the show by their gesture.
Recalling the moment, he told us: "I don't think I've ever had to hold back tears so much and I was really surprised by my reaction."
Trailer for Ben Fogle and Kate Humble series Animal Park
The Animal Park presenter, who is married to wife Marina since 2006, explained how a 'mental health crisis' brought on his ADHD diagnosis.
He told The Sun: "I had a bit of a stormy year last year with my own mental health.
"I was in quite a vulnerable place anyway, I didn't realise it at the time."
Filming for Into The Congo with Ben Fogle was more than a job for the father-of-two.
He said: "My visit to the Congo was at a personal moment of internal chaos.
"To see the simplicity and the beauty and the raw love of that welcome... I was completely overwhelmed.
"If I think back to it now tears will start rolling down my face.
"The joyousness that I experienced in the Congo was unlike anything I had ever experienced anywhere else in the world."
He concluded: "Part of me has this bold idea that that could be the cure for mental health, we just need to get everyone out to the Congo.
"They live a very simply, humble and kind life, nobody owns any possessions, everything is shared.
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"So it's a completely fair society."
Into The Congo with Ben Fogle, which kicks off this Sunday at 9pm on Channel 5.
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