Anna Friel says Covid lockdown has been ‘tough’ as she backs Standard mental health campaign

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The Emmy-winning actress, 44, admitted the past year had been “tough” on her and her teenage daughter Gracie, who she shares with ex-partner David Thewlis.
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Anna Friel has revealed she is seeing a therapist for the first time as she backed the Standard’s mental health campaign.

The Emmy-winning actress, 44, admitted the past year had been “tough” on everyone - adding she and her teenage daughter Gracie, who she shares with ex-partner David Thewlis, were no exception.

 Friel, who starred in soap opera Brookside before working on acclaimed shows such as Pushing Daisies and Marcella, said: “This lockdown has been tough on everyone, but with a teenage daughter myself, I can see how difficult it is for youngsters, being away from their friends, school, universities, or careers they may have just started.

“Which is why I’m fully behind the Standard’s Young London SOS campaign and its focus on the importance of opening up to those around you if you’re feeling vulnerable.”

Speaking about her own mental health, the star continued: “For the first time in my life I have actually started having therapy myself and it’s no coincidence that coincided with lockdown.

“I feel it’s important we continue to break down the stigma around mental health and with more  children and parents needing support than before, knowing help can be found from charities like  Place2Be is going to make a world of difference.”

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