EastEnders to air heartbreaking Phil Mitchell plot as soap legend makes devastating decision
EastEnders is working closely with charities on a powerful storyline that will see BBC soap legend Phil Mitchell attempt to take his own life, after suffering from depression with psychotic symptoms
There’s emotional and powerful scenes on the way on EastEnders, as BBC soap legend Phil Mitchell features in a sad mental health storyline.
After weeks of speculation about Phil’s mental health by viewers and concern from his loved ones, Phil’s depression escalates in the coming weeks following the show tackling a loneliness plot. Steve McFadden’s character will begin to experience “psychotic symptoms” as his mental health spirals, and sadly he will attempt to take his own life. As Phil attempts to hide his depression from his loved ones, things will intensify to the point where he experiences hallucinations.
As he reaches a crisis point, Phil starts to believe his life is no longer worth living. The soap has confirmed the character will attempt to take his own life, with the soap working closely with a number of charities on the hard-hitting and important storyline.
EastEnders has sought guidance from The Samaritans, Rethink Mental Illness, the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM), and Mind to ensure the storyline and scenes are portrayed as accurately and as sensitively as possible. It’s not been revealed when the scenes will air, but huge episodes for Phil were recently teased by soap boss Chris Clenshaw to The Mirror in December, and it’s thought it could be tied into the 40th anniversary build-up.
Chris has now confirmed the storyline, praising actor Steve for his portrayal. He said: “Phil’s depression storyline will focus on his decline in mental health and the subsequent psychotic symptoms, and the reaction of those around him, as we hope to demonstrate how mental health can affect anyone at any time.
There’s emotional and powerful scenes on the way on EastEnders ( Image: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
“Steve’s performance is nothing short of extraordinary and has thoughtfully portrayed the complex realties of depression, and the experience of psychotic symptoms, with compassion and understanding.” Lorna Fraser, Head of Samaritans’ Media Advice Service, said of the upcoming storyline: “The EastEnders team has done a great job capturing the reality of a mental health crisis, and we were delighted to help them tell Phil’s story in a safe and responsible way.
“The nature of a soap makes it possible to present sensitive topics in uniquely engaging ways through characters audiences can relate to. We know men often struggle to open up and share how they are feeling, so it’s good to show the importance of checking in and lending a listening ear in this way.”
Kat Allin, Associate Director of Media & Campaigns at Rethink Mental Illness, added: “Phil’s story serves as a powerful reminder that mental illness can affect anyone, highlighting how hard it can be to understand and cope with what’s happening. Shame and confusion often push people into isolation at a time when they need support the most.
Phil Mitchell features in a sad mental health storyline ( Image: PA)
“Our hope is that Phil’s story will resonate with viewers and spark meaningful conversations in homes across the country, encouraging people to rethink their perceptions of mental illness, recognise the signs that someone might be struggling, and the importance of seeking help early – before someone reaches crisis point.” Wendy Robinson, Director of Services at Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM), said: “EastEnders has always done a great job at shining a light on important issues through the stories they choose to explore, and we’ve been really pleased to support them in presenting this one in a safe and responsible way.
“Talking about s.u.i.c.i.d.e and bringing these stories onto our TV screens helps to break down the stigma surrounding it, which will ultimately save lives.” Joe Levenson, Head of Media at Mind, revealed: “On-screen fictional portrayals can drastically shift how we think, feel, and behave in relation to our mental health.
“Through our media advisory service, we have worked closely with the EastEnders team. Over this period, we provided extensive feedback to help build a greater understanding of what it’s like for men experiencing suicidal feelings and reaching a crisis point for their mental health. Loneliness, depression, and suicide are all devastating, and we know the figures of those affected in the UK are huge, particularly among men. We sadly need storylines like Phil’s now more than ever.”
