Catherine Tydesley has spoken out about one of Coronation Street’s most shocking deaths of recent years.
In tragic scenes to be shown next week, the residents of Weatherfield are forced to come to terms with the suicide of Aidan Connor.
The factory boss takes his own life – off-screen – after a secret battle with depression.
When Aidan doesn’t arrive to open up at the factory, dad Johnny presumes he’s slept in and lets himself into Aidan’s flat.
But, in a shocking blow, he finds a note in Aidan’s handwriting announcing he has ended his own life.
Read more: Shayne Ward reveals he drew on personal tragedy for tragic Aidan story
After reading the letter, Johnny forces his way into the bathroom and finds the most awful thing a parent could ever see.
After calling Carla, the police and paramedics arrive at the flat, and confirm that Aidan is dead.
As the soap world comes to terms with the shocking and devastating death, Corrie star Catherine Tyldesley has highlighted the issue of male suicide and praised her co-star Shayne Ward for his portrayal of Aidan.
In a post to her 342,000 Instagram followers, Catherine wrote: “Around 84 men a week take their own lives. I can not bear this statistic – we need to do more. We need to talk.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BiPZFtUH501/?taken-by=auntiecath17
Fans were grateful for Catherine’s post, with one responding: “I hope it prevents someone taking their own life, just don’t think I can watch it, lost two people I love to suicide & it’s just too raw.”
Don’t miss out: Three steps to ensure you see all ED!’s latest news on Facebook
Another emotional post came from this social media user, who said: “I am an accident and emergency senior nurse and see this too often. Sadly my best friend, and also a senior ED nurse , took his own life in November last year.
“I would do anything to have saved him or noticed their was a problem. He was 34! Thank you for raising awareness. It’s a living nightmare when your left behind not knowing why.”
A third said: “Fantastic work guys! Couldn’t agree more. It’s vital we talk. #breakthestigma.”
Catherine plays Eva, who gave birth to Aidan’s baby this week. Following her ex’s death, Eva, who had hoped for a reconciliation
If you are struggling with depression or suicidal ideation, or are concerned for someone you know, call Samaritans for free on 116 123.
https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help-you/what-speak-us-about/signs-you-may-be-struggling-cope