Frankie Bridge has opened up about her mental health struggles in a candid Instagram post marking World Mental Health Day, admitting that “falling apart just isn't really an option” for those coping with mental health issues.
The Loose Women presenter, 37, acknowledged she had deliberately stepped back from discussing mental health in recent years while continuing to navigate her own struggles. She shared the lessons she has learned along the way alongside a comforting message for followers facing the pressures of everyday life.
Career in the Spotlight
Frankie has spent decades in the spotlight, launching her career at just 12 years old as part of pop group S Club 8 before achieving further success with girl band The Saturdays. Following the group's split in 2014, she embarked on a solo musical journey and appeared on numerous TV programmes, including Strictly Come Dancing, I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! and Cannonball. In 2021, she joined the presenting team of ITV's Loose Women.
‘There's No One Size Fits All Solution’
Reflecting on World Mental Health Day, Frankie wrote: “Every year I never really know what to say on World Mental Health Day. I find it harder and harder to give it a positive spin or offer tips to help yourself or others. I've taken a slight step back.”
She continued: “Mostly it's because I know the waiting lists are long and the help isn't always there. But also because I'm still figuring out exactly what works for me. After all these years, I still get frustrated by it.”
Frankie explained that there is no “one size fits all” solution when it comes to mental health, as individuals have varying requirements and react differently to various forms of assistance. She added: “People are so good at hiding things, especially feelings. I know that it's probably the thing I've mastered the best in my life.”
“If you have any sort of mental health issue, life goes on, you still need to show up for people, and bills still need paying. Falling apart just isn't really an option. So we put on our smile and act the way 'normal' people are supposed to act. Sometimes it's the only way through.”
Nevertheless, Frankie emphasised how crucial it is to confide in someone about the thoughts whirring through your mind, reassuring followers that they are not isolated, despite how it might feel. She said: “What I will say is this: if you're suffering, talk. Your brain will convince you that you're alone, but you're not. And if you think someone is suffering, don't try to 'fix' it. You can't. Just listen and be there.”
“We all know the practical things that help, but they're often the hardest things to do. A lot of the time, just being here is the goal of the day. And that's okay.”
‘I Too Have Become Very Good at Pretending I'm Fine’
Frankie's message triggered a flood of support from followers, with numerous people expressing gratitude for her candid discussion about the reality of coping with mental health challenges. One user said: “Paragraph four - hits hard.” Another wrote: “It's been over a decade since you told me to always talk and I still carry that with me and am so grateful for everything.”
A third added: “Well, given that you didn't know what to say, you said it so well. I said to my mum yesterday and a friend today, the bills still need paying. And I too have become very good at pretending I'm fine. Every time I see something you've shared saying you are struggling it reminds me I'm normal, so thank you for continuing to share.”
Previously, Frankie has been forthright about her mental wellbeing, including battling anxiety and depression. Anyone needing support with mental health is advised to contact their GP for further advice.
