Note: The following article contains discussion of themes including suicide that some readers may find upsetting.
Hollyoaks spoilers follow.
Hollyoaks fans have praised actor Ashley Taylor Dawson for his performance as his character Darren Osborne had a major breakthrough in his depression storyline.
In recent weeks, fans have seen Darren struggle with depression, with friend Kyle Kelly (Adam Rickitt) becoming his secret support system.
But on Monday night's episode (April 13), Darren hit rock bottom and left home with a packed bag. He was eventually found by Kyle sitting on the top of a building.
The pair then had a heart-to-heart, with Kyle opening up to Darren about his own history with depression, revealing that he'd actually been in rehab as a teenager for trying to take his own life.
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On Tuesday's episode (April 14), Darren made the decision to finally tell his partner Mandy about how he's been feeling.
While in tears, Darren told her: "I don't know how to tell you this. I think I'm depressed. I just don't feel anything anymore, it's like I'm empty inside."
Darren went on to explain his friendship with Kyle, saying: "I know he's a joker but he's been through stuff. Like the MS and drugs. He's been a real friend to me."
"The way I feel, all the dark thoughts I'm having, it's got nothing to do with work, with family, anything on the outside world," Darren continued.
"That's what Kyle's helped me realise. It's all in my head. I can't stand it. I don't want anyone else to know, I just want you to help me."
Dawson was praised for his emotional and powerful performance, along with co-star Sarah Jayne Dunn who plays Mandy.
Hollyoaks airs Mondays and Tuesdays at 6.30pm on Channel 4, with first-look episodes airing on E4 at 7pm. Wednesdays through Fridays on E4 feature classic episodes called Hollyoaks Favourites to compensate for the soap suspending filming.
We would encourage anyone who identifies with the topics raised in this article to reach out. Organisations who can offer support include Samaritans on 116 123 (www.samaritans.org) or Mind on 0300 123 3393 (www.mind.org.uk). Readers in the US are encouraged to visit mentalhealth.gov or the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
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