Note: The following article contains discussion of themes including suicide
Emmerdale star Bradley Riches has been supported by fans after sharing that he once attempted to take his own life. The actor, who plays Lewis Barton, took to Instagram with an emotional post to mark National Suicide Prevention Month.
Opening up about his past struggles, the Heartstopper star wrote: “I always get nervous talking about my experience and my life, but I want to share this. And hopefully don’t get scared and delete it.
“In 2020, I tried to end my life. At the time, I couldn’t see a life beyond that moment. I didn’t know who I was, or whether things could ever feel different.”
Riches went on to write a list of experiences he’s had since the attempt on his life, including entering the Celebrity Big Brother house and writing a best-selling book.
“There may be a moment where you genuinely can’t see a reason to stay. I know that feeling,” he continued. “But please, stay for the things you haven’t experienced yet.
“You are loved. You are important. Your story is not finished. I’m so, so glad I stayed [white heart emoji]. September is Suicide Prevention Month (it is a month, but trying to stay is a whole year thing). If you’re struggling, please tell someone. You don’t have to carry it alone.”
In the caption, the actor admitted: “I will post this then two seconds [later] delete it as I get scared. But I’m gonna post this and not look on my phone for a bit. Love you all x.”
Stuart C. Wilson//Getty Images
The comment section of his post was flooded with fans showing their support, with one user writing: “Please don’t delete this Brad. It’s such an honest, raw, valuable post that might actually make someone in a dark place think again. Thank you for being so brave to share xxx.”
Another added: “Please don’t delete this, it’s nice to see a celebrity be so raw and open, it makes me feel less alone as an autistic adult who spent years struggling in and out of hospital. I’m so glad you stayed and I’m so proud of you for being so open x.”
A third said: “Thank you for sharing, suicide is always perceived as taboo but you never know who needed to see this today.”
Meanwhile, Riches has bid farewell to his former co-star Olivia Bromley, who made her exit as Dawn recently. “Although Lewis and Dawn didn’t get to interact much on screen, behind the scenes I gained a friend for life – and for that, I’ll always be so grateful,” he wrote.
We encourage anyone who identifies with the topics raised in this article to reach out. Information about how to access support is available via the NHS, and organisations who can offer help include Samaritans on 116 123 or Mind on 0300 123 3393.
Readers in the US are encouraged to visit mentalhealth.gov or the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.