Former Hollyoaks star James Sutton has revealed the 'immense pressure' he faced early in his acting career.
The actor, also known for his role in Emmerdale, shared his experiences in the latest episode of Edge Hill University's Edge Ahead podcast as part of its What’s In Your Head? mental health series.
The conversation, which marks International Men’s Day, features Mr Sutton in discussion with former Premier League goalkeeper and Edge Hill honorary doctor Chris Kirkland, and podcaster Gareth Roberts.
He spoke openly about his early struggles with anxiety and panic attacks during drama school, saying that, at the time, with no public conversation or reference points for mental health, he genuinely thought he was 'going mad'.
Mr Sutton said: "It just happens, that's what we have to understand as well, that a mental health crisis isn't always rooted in something. It just happens."
The actor recalled missing classes and having his ability to complete the course questioned, highlighting how mental health issues can emerge without a clear cause.
He also discussed the damaging effects of celebrity culture on his well-being, including heavy drinking and neglect of self-care, which he said contributed to his divorce.
Mr Sutton said: "I think from the outside looking in, things were probably quite good.
"I got this TV career and I was being invited to various things, it's quite glitzy and glamorous, that world is quite intoxicating.
"But that world only works well if you have healthy practices alongside it. You can't have it both ways.
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"You can't party hard and expect to be in the best physical shape."
He spoke about the emotional toll of portraying difficult storylines on Hollyoaks, including sexual assault and struggles with sexuality, and the responsibility he felt to accurately represent the experiences of the LGBTQ+ community and survivors of sexual violence.
The episode is available on Spotify and YouTube.
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