Love Island star Dr Alex George reveals he’s been diagnosed with autism: ‘I feel unsteady but I can finally begin to understand why I am the way I am’
Dr. Alex George, known for his appearance on the reality television show Love Island, has publicly revealed he has been diagnosed with autism. The 34-year-old shared the news with his followers on Tuesday, following a period of assessment.
Understanding the Diagnosis
Dr. Alex described the news as “raw” and acknowledged it will take time to fully process, but expressed hope that it will provide clarity regarding aspects of his personality. He stated the diagnosis will help him understand “why I am the way I am.” Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by challenges in social skills, repetitive behaviors, and differences in speech and nonverbal communication.
A History of Neurodiversity Discoveries
This diagnosis follows previous assessments. Dr. Alex received a diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in September 2022, and in 2025, he was diagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). He shared his initial reaction to the autism diagnosis, noting the surreal experience of reading the 300-page report and recognising himself within its pages.
Dr. Alex believes this new understanding will be beneficial in his relationships and help others better understand him. He cited examples, such as his established routines – including always carrying a hair dryer – and difficulties interpreting social cues, as aspects now illuminated by the diagnosis.
Sharing His Journey
He emphasized the importance of sharing his experiences, hoping to help others who may feel alone. Dr. Alex expressed gratitude to the doctors who supported him, his family, and particularly his mother, throughout the assessment process. He acknowledged the emotional weight of keeping this information private and the relief of finally sharing it.
Dr. Alex also detailed his long-standing struggles with anxiety and a feeling of being different, even as a child. He noted that even now, there is a lack of full understanding surrounding ADHD, often misconstrued as simply an inability to concentrate or hyperactivity. He clarified that ADHD is better understood as a “dopamine-driven dysregulation disorder.”
Additional Health Considerations
In addition to his recent diagnoses, Dr. Alex shared that he developed facial tics at age 11, which were never investigated at the time. These tics have since moved to his hands, shoulders, and neck. He has explored treatments like Botox to manage the tics, but finds they worsen during periods of stress. He also spoke about childhood comfort found in the sound of hairdryers and his ongoing use of them for self-soothing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication.
What other diagnoses has Dr. Alex George received?
Dr. Alex George was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in September 2022 and with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in 2025.
How did Dr. Alex George react to his autism diagnosis?
Dr. Alex George described the news as “raw” and said it will take time to process, but he believes it will help him understand himself better. He felt a sense of relief in finally having an explanation for long-held feelings and behaviors.
As Dr. Alex George begins to navigate life with this new understanding, what impact do you think increased awareness of neurodiversity will have on public conversations about mental health?