Death in Paradise actress shares life changing diagnosis in tearful post

Welsh actress Kimberley Nixon, known for her roles in Fresh Meat and Death in Paradise, has revealed to her fans that she's been clinically diagnosed with Autism and ADHD.

The 39 year old star took to social media to share her emotional response, posting photos of herself shedding "happy tears" and admitting she's "still processing" the significant diagnosis.

In a heartfelt message, Kimberley expressed relief at understanding her brain's unique workings, saying: "Happy tears. Still processing. Haven't read the full report yet, but... Today, I was clinically diagnosed with Autism and ADHD.

READ MORE: Coronation Street fans 'work out' what Nina and Summer saw in 'terrible' twist

READ MORE: Benidorm return 'in crisis' after creator Derren Litten's divorce from star Jake Canuso

"I feel lighter than I have in a long time because instead of feeling like my brain is 'broken', I know now that it was just doing things differently all this time."

She continued by sharing a tender wish to comfort her younger self, reflecting on her journey: "I want to go back in time and give my younger self a cwtch and save her a lot of time and heartache, but I can't change anything about how I got here, really, because then I wouldn't be me."

Signing off, Kimberley thanked her supporters who've been with her through thick and thin: "From the midst of brutal Postnatal OCD through to today's diagnosis, a lot of you have been with me every step of the way. Thank you, thank you."

Her followers responded with an outpouring of support in the comments section, with one person celebrating: "Congratulations on the first day of the rest of your life."

Another follower offered words of encouragement, writing: "We hope it brings you some self-compassion and understanding," while another welcomed her to the community: "Welcomeeeeee. Go gently with yourself as you adjust to a new inner reality! Xx."

Kimberley has also made a name for herself on the big screen, starring in popular films like Wild Child and Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging, as well as a recent appearance in ITV's drama series about the Salisbury Poisonings, reports the Express.

Aside from her acting career, Kimberley is a devoted mum to her son and often shares glimpses into her life as a parent on social media, including adorable snaps with her child and pet dog. In a heartfelt Father's Day tribute to her partner, she praised dads who go above and beyond, saying: "To the dads who not only have a newborn but a struggling partner to care for.

"To the dads that show up ALL the time even if they're knackered or grumpy or even more knackered. To the dads who care so deeply but show so little. To the dads that really mean it when it's 50/50. Or 60/40 or 70/30 depending what's going on in life. [...]

"Sometimes dads get left out of the perinatal mental illness conversation. I've found in a lot of instances, they're the silent, sidelined heroes keeping everything together. Remember that there's help and support for dads too."

Death in Paradise is available to stream on BBC iPlayer