Skip to Content

Scottish singer Susan Boyle recently revealed that she has been diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome, a form of autism.

The talented musician shocked the world with her amazing vocals in 2009 when she preformed ‘I Dreamed a Dream’ on ‘Britain’s Got Talent,’ and became an overnight media sensation as much for her quirky behavior as her singing ability.

Despite an above-average IQ, Susan had learning difficulties as a child and struggled with relationship and communication. Her undiagnosed condition greatly affected her ability to cope with her new found fame following a successful television stint on ‘BGT,’ resulting in a hospital stint for treatment of nervous exhaustion.

The 52-year-old has opted to talk candidly about her lifelong struggles in a recent interview with UK publication The Guardian.

Boyle acknowledged, “Some articles have said I have brain damage. It’s been something else. I have Asperger’s.”

It is a high-functioning form of autism that affects social interaction and communication skills. As it turns out, the diagnosis has been a relief to Susan.

She said emphatically, “Asperger’s doesn’t define me. It’s a condition that I have to live with and work through, but I feel more relaxed about myself. People will have a greater understanding of who I am and why I do the things I do.”

Susan reluctantly admits, “I am not strong on my own. When I have the support of people around me, I am fine.”

Photo Credit: WENN