Simon Gregson health: ‘This is real and awful’ Coronation Street star reveals condition

Simon Gregson, 44, is a long established face on ITV’s Coronation Street. The actor has played Steve McDonald on the soap since 1989. Steve McDonald may be Gregson’s public persona but the soap star gave fans a rare insight into his personal life earlier this year. In response to BBC show Nadiya: Anxiety and Me, which revealed former Bake Off winner Nadiya Hussain’s mental health struggles, the actor shared his own battle with anxiety.

Not alone people.

Simon Gregson

In a Twitter post, Simon said: “Anxiety and me, BBC1, apologies ITV. This is real and awful to live with please watch and understand it’s a hidden awful emotion that affects far more than you’d think. BUT treatable and manageable with the right help. Not alone people.”

Anxiety is a feeling of unease, such as worry or fear, that can be mild or severe, according to the NHS.

It explains: “Everyone has feelings of anxiety at some point in their life – for example, you may feel worried and anxious about sitting an exam, or having a medical test or job interview.

“During times like these, feeling anxious can be perfectly normal.

“But some people find it hard to control their worries. Their feelings of anxiety are more constant and can often affect their daily lives.”

Anxiety is the main symptom of several conditions, including:

• Panic disorder
• Phobias, such as agoraphobia or claustrophobia
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Social anxiety disorder (social phobia)

The recommended course of treatment will depend on what is causing a person’s anxiety.

Some people may find making a number of lifestyle changes may ease their anxiety.

According to the NHS, regular exercise may help. “It also encourages your brain to release serotonin, which can improve your mood, explained the health body.

People can also seek more specialist help if required.

Simon explained a combination of therapy and medication helped him cope with his anxiety.

He said: “Tablets work different for different people. Mine worked with therapy. However you need to find the right one for you.

“You’ll be surprised how many people suffer. You don’t have to suffer. It’s a road to go down for yourself if you want too.”

This is not the first time the actor has opened up about his mental health battle.

In 2015, he was signed off work for an undisclosed illness, which he later revealed was depression.

Reflecting on that time, the actor provided a hopeful message.

He said: “I had to pinch myself the other day – a beautiful wife and three beautiful kids who are hilarious.”

David Walliams also struggled with mental health  issues. Find out more here.

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