Chorley GBBO and Strictly star John Whaite makes heartbreaking admission in order to help others
Silence can make people feel completely alone, and if sharing my story helps even one person tell someone they’re struggling, then that matters.
Chorley’s star baker John Whaite has opened up about his own battle with mental health in order to help others.
The 2012 Great British Bake Off winner took to social media this week to urge people who are struggling with suicidal thoughts to seek help.
John’s story
The 37-year-old, who is in the process of opening a new Ruff Puff Bakehouse said that last October, he was on the verge of taking is own life in woodland, before his husband phoned and asked him to come home.
He did, then told his sister, and has been able to move on to a better place.
He said: “One phonecall didn’t fix everything, but it got me home. Telling my sister helped me through the next day. And I’m grateful I stayed to see it.”
John has previously opened up about having severe depression, bulimia, and a addiction to anabolic steroids.
September is National Suicide Prevention Month, a dedicated time to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and share life-saving resources through events hosted by organizations like the Samaritans.
John added: “I’ll never stop talking openly about suicide. Silence can make people feel completely alone, and if sharing my story helps even one person tell someone they’re struggling, then that matters. If you’re thinking about ending your life, please tell someone very plainly. Ask them to stay with you. You deserved help through this moment.”
His candid admissions have been met by hundreds of messages of support, and more than 4,500 likes on Facebook.
Help is available
In the UK, Samaritans are there day and night on 116 123. Campaign Against Living Miserably are also available on 0800585858.
If you feel you are in immediate danger, call 999.