Actor Christopher Eccleston made surprising revelations about his struggle with depression, anorexia, and suicide in his forthcoming autobiography, I Love the Bones of You: My Father and the Making of Me.
“People love the way I look in that series (Doctor Who) but I was very ill. Many times I’ve wanted to reveal that I’m a lifelong anorexic and dysmorphic. I never have. I always thought of it as a filthy secret because I’m northern, because I’m male, and because I’m working class.”
Consequently, after contemplating suicide after separating from his wife in 2015, he checked into a psychiatric hospital. Eccleston received a diagnosis of clinical depression and prescribed antidepressants helped manage his symptoms.
Additionally, we commend Eccleston for using his platform to speak up about mental health. Destructive societal expectations aren’t something that affects women only.
As stated by a 2018 study published in the International Journal of Eating Disorders, men also struggle although their symptoms and experiences can be overlooked.
Eccleston has embraced the importance of self-care and self-love, it’s not just a capitalism gimmick for clout.
Lastly, if you’re struggling with mental health, you owe it yourself to find the treatment YOU deserve. Don’t struggle in silence, you are not alone.
If you or someone you know is seeking help for mental health concerns, visit the National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) or call 1-800-950-NAMI(6264).
If you or someone you know is battling an eating disorder, please contact the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) at 1-800-931-2237.
