EastEnders viewers have noticed with growing concern that teenager Bex Fowler (Jasmine Armfield) has been struggling with her anxieties and the pressure being piled on her of late and Metro.co.uk can confirm that the storyline is building to some devastating scenes which will see the troubled youngster attempt to take her own life.
The BBC One soap has never shied away from tackling mental health issues and earlier this year shone a light on male depression with Sean Slater (Rob Kazinsky). Viewers on scoial media have been begging characters to notice that something is wrong with Bex but her situation will reach crisis point in scenes which will air early next month.
EastEnders is working with Samaritans on the storyline, with show boss Jon Sen telling Metro.co.uk: We wanted to take Bex on a journey which accurately reflected the crises facing many young people today – many of whom, like Bex, struggle under the mounting pressures placed on teenagers today. Having worked closely with Samaritans, our wish is that by telling this story we can encourage others in Bexs position to realise theres always help and theres always hope and we hope that others will be encouraged to start a conversation if they are worried about someone they know.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Lorna Fraser who leads on Samaritans Media Advice Service, commented on the storyline: Suicide is clearly a very sensitive topic and we were pleased that EastEnders contacted us for advice on how to approach Bexs storyline. Bexs story highlights the potential consequences of not seeking help if youre struggling to cope, and also the importance of starting a conversation if you think someone you know may be struggling. If you are worried about someone its alright to ask if theyre ok. For some it can be a huge relief to know that someones spotted they may be going through a difficult time.
As suicide rates in England and Wales rose in 2018 for the first time in five years, with an increase in deaths by young people and the suicide rate of women under 25 at a record high*, its vital that we increase understanding of what can be done to prevent this. Suicide is not inevitable and media can be a valuable channel to highlight this to the public. Handling compelling soap storylines responsibly offers an opportunity to reach a large audience and engage them with the topic of suicide, creating greater awareness of how they can help to prevent suicide and what support is available.
We would encourage anyone who has been touched by Bexs storyline to speak to someone they trust or get in touch with Samaritans, were here to offer support 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
