Tim Walz, the Minnesota governor and Democratic nominee Kamala Harris’ running mate, has been open about his son Gus’ non-verbal learning disorder, anxiety disorder, and ADHD. Gus was diagnosed with these conditions as a teenager, and his parents see these diagnoses as strengths rather than setbacks. They describe Gus as brilliant and hyper-aware, and they are proud of the man he is growing into. Gus appeared at the Democratic National Convention to support his father and was emotional when Walz expressed his love for his children.
Non-verbal learning disorders (NLDs) affect the ability to notice patterns and learn concepts in areas such as visual patterns, social patterns, language, and math. Children with NLDs typically have good basic language skills but may struggle with skills like understanding abstract concepts, planning, organizing, and paying attention, comprehending emotions through facial expressions, sensing objects’ locations, writing and fine motor skills, high-level reading, and physical coordination. An anxiety disorder involves intense, excessive, and persistent worry and fear about everyday situations, often including panic attacks and various types of anxiety disorders like generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, specific phobias, and separation anxiety disorder.
ADHD is a chronic condition that includes difficulty sustaining attention, hyperactivity, and impulsive behavior. Symptoms of ADHD may start in childhood and continue into adulthood, including impulsiveness, poor time management skills, disorganization, trouble prioritizing and multitasking, difficulty focusing on tasks, restlessness, mood swings, and trouble planning and completing tasks. Walz has shared that Gus also has ADHD, adding to the challenges he faces, but his parents see these conditions as Gus’ secret power and are committed to helping him succeed.
Gus’ parents have taken the time to understand his conditions and ensure he is set up for success as he grows up. They have found that Gus’ conditions are not setbacks but rather unique strengths that set him apart. His parents describe him as an excellent son and brother who is brilliant and hyper-aware of details that others may overlook. With his parents’ support and understanding, Gus is growing into a confident young man who is excited to be part of his family’s journey, despite the challenges he faces.
Walz and his wife have been open about their experiences with infertility, successful intrauterine insemination (IUI), and the challenges they have faced in raising a child with learning disorders. They have shared their story to raise awareness and destigmatize these conditions, emphasizing that Gus’ conditions are not limitations but rather unique abilities that set him apart. As Gus continues to grow and navigate the world with his non-verbal learning disorder, anxiety disorder, and ADHD, he does so with the love and support of his family, who are proud of the remarkable young man he is becoming.
