The EastEnders storyline featuring Phil Mitchell’s mental health struggles is lauded for its responsible portrayal of suicide and depression.
London: EastEnders is tackling some heavy stuff with Phil Mitchell’s character. He’s going through a tough time, battling depression and psychosis. The storyline has caught the attention of the charity Samaritans, who think it’s a responsible way to show these issues.
Phil, played by Steve McFadden, has been feeling pretty lonely lately. His ex, Sharon, is now with his cousin Teddy, and his marriage to Kat has ended. It’s no wonder he’s pulling away from everyone.
Things get even more complicated with the return of his childhood friend Nigel, who has early onset dementia. Plus, Phil’s son Ben is stuck in a US prison, adding to his stress.
The producers have teamed up with mental health organizations to make sure they handle Phil’s story with care. They want to show how his mental health spirals, leading to hallucinations and feelings of hopelessness.
Lorna Fraser from Samaritans praised the show for capturing the reality of a mental health crisis. She mentioned how important it is to show men that it’s okay to talk about their feelings and seek help.
This storyline is set to air soon, and it’s a big deal for the show, especially since it’s celebrating its 40th anniversary. Phil’s past struggles with alcoholism and addiction have been tough, but this new arc is all about his mental health.
Chris Clenshaw, the executive producer, emphasized that they want to show how mental health can affect anyone. Steve’s performance is said to be extraordinary, really bringing the complexities of depression to life.
With the return of Phil’s brother Grant, there’s a lot of excitement brewing. The reason for Grant’s comeback is under wraps, but it’s hinted to be quite dramatic.
Charities like Rethink Mental Illness and Mind are hopeful that Phil’s story will spark important conversations about mental health, especially among men who often feel isolated during tough times.
It’s a crucial topic, and with the rising numbers of mental health issues in the UK, storylines like Phil’s are more important than ever. If you or someone you know needs help, Samaritans are just a call away at 116 123.
