Helen Flanagan has opened up about a difficult period in her life, stating that she once considered suicide after stopping her medication, which she takes for ADHD and Bipolar Disorder.
The actress is currently getting ready to return to the ‘Coronation Street’ cobbles, after a four year break from playing Rosie Webster.
Now, she’s spoken out about a difficult time, during which she suffered a number of mental health problems while working on the show.
Speaking of when she secretly stopped her medication, Helen told The Sun: “One day I was driving into the ITV studios and I thought, ‘Wouldn’t it be great if I just crashed my car now and it was all over?’
After spending time focusing on her health, Helen is now managing her depression, anxiety, ADHD and bipolar disorder with the help of doctors, and has weekly cognitive behavioural therapy.
“I don’t want to pass any negative energy or behaviour down to Matilda, so I’ve been seeing a therapist once a week for a while and things have really improved,” she added.
Helen is due to rejoin the ‘Corrie’ cast in the coming weeks, and producers are promising that Rosie’s return will be “eventful”.
The soap’s producer Kate Oates has hinted at what’s to come, stating: “The Websters have missed Rosie and so have we. With Sophie away on holiday with her sister it seemed like the ideal time to bring Rosie back home with her for a visit.
“We are delighted that Helen is as keen explore what Rosie has been up to away from the cobbles as we are.”
Useful websites and helplines:Mind, open Monday to Friday,9am-6pm on 0300 123 3393 Samaritans offers a listeningservice which is open 24 hours a day, on 116 123 (UK and ROI - this number is FREE to call and will not appear on your phone bill.) Get Connected is a freeadvice service for people under 25. Call 0808 808 4994 or email: help@getconnected.org.uk