EastEnders highlights Phil Mitchell's mental health struggle

The BBC soap EastEnders has announced an emotionally intense storyline focusing on Phil Mitchell, portrayed by Steve McFadden, who will grapple with severe depression and psychotic symptoms, culminating in a suicide attempt. This storyline reflects Phil's withdrawal from family and friends due to personal crises, including his cousin's relationship with his ex-wife and his son's imprisonment. The show aims to depict the complex realities of mental health accurately, working in collaboration with mental health organizations such as The Samaritans, Rethink Mental Illness, CALM, and Mind. Executive Producer Chris Clenshaw highlights the importance of showing how mental health can affect anyone and praises McFadden's performance for its sensitivity and understanding. The plot will also feature the return of Ross Kemp as Grant Mitchell, Phil's brother, to support him during his crisis.