Coronation Street boss Kate Oates has explained why the soap has chosen to tackle to the subject of male suicide, with Aidan Connor central to the harrowing storyline.
Next week, the Connor family will be devastated to discover than Aidan has taken his own life.
Viewers will see the family’s turmoil in the aftermath of such shocking, awful news.
Kate spoke of the importance of the difficult storyline, explaining: “Suicide is the biggest killer of men under 45 in this country.
“With 84 men taking their lives each week, we quite simply can’t afford to not talk about it.
“Aidan’s story, bravely and brilliantly tackled by Shayne Ward, is designed to give people who hide their feelings of desperation a chance to start a conversation, letting someone know what they’re going through.
“Through this story, we want to assure anyone who feels suicidal that there is always someone who wants to listen and support you: whether a friend, family member, or one of the brilliant charities we have been working with throughout this story.
“We want to tell people that however bleak they are feeling, there is always another way.”
If you or someone you love is struggling with depression or suicidal ideation, please contact Samaritans for advice and support.
https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help-you/what-speak-us-about/signs-you-may-be-struggling-cope