Zayn Malik's decision to open up about his anxiety has been praised as a "huge, bold move" by Craig David.

Craig David

Craig David

The 23-year-old singer pulled out of a performance at Capital FM's Summertime Ball in London over the weekend after suffering an anxiety attack and Craig, 35, says Zayn's decision to be honest about his issues is a brave step.

Speaking at the Grazia Live event in collaboration with Facebook, he said: "I think it was a huge, bold move for him to be able to express himself in that way, because that's a very personal thing and it's a real thing for people to go through. So for him to actually say that openly to everybody, I've got huge respect for him. Especially coming from a huge band. You are a solo artist now and going it alone, it's a huge thing to take on your shoulders so I've got huge respect for him. I hope he overcomes it and finds a way that he can go out and do his performances without it keeping on haunting him."

And Craig believes people will appreciate and respect Zayn even more because of his honesty.

He said: "People can see that you are a human being and I think once you get back down to taking away all the smoke and mirrors, it's a human being who is in front of everybody, trying to show what he is capable of. You're thinking 'I woke up this morning. I'm alive. I'm glad that I can make music. I'm just going to deliver it.' There is always going to be opinions of anything that you do and hopefully there's more positives in your life than there are negatives and you shun off the negative because you haven't got time for it and you keep on walking forward."

Craig is not the only celebrity to voice support for Zayn, with the 'Pillowtalk' hitmaker's girlfriend Gigi Hadid, 21, taking to Twitter to praise him for his bravery.

She wrote: "Z - I've seen the battles you go through and the way you fight to get to a place that allows you to get up there for your fans.

"Your bravery in those times makes me proud, but your honesty last night proved what you're all about, being real. Human recognises human. You made the best of the situation and have given your fans an opportunity to understand you better as a performer.

"Those who can find compassion now are the ones who deserve to watch you continue to grow. We are all here to support you and make each experience easier. Your talent and good heart will never lead you wrong.

"Love you and so proud of you always :) G (sic)."

Tagged in