Bryce Dallas Howard

Bryce Dallas Howard

Bryce Dallas Howard struggled with post-natal depression after the birth of her son - and the condition nearly tore her marriage apart.

The Spider-Man 3 star, daughter of director Ron Howard, gave birth to baby Theo, her first child with actor husband Seth Gabel, in 2007.

But Howard admits the happy time was overshadowed by post-natal depression, and the 28-year-old is amazed her partner stood by her even in the darkest times.

She says, "I've always been a very sunny, optimistic person, so it was confusing. My family was really concerned.

"My husband felt helpless. We've had our struggles, but right now I feel very lucky."

And Howard puts her recovery down to a natural "homoeopathic regime". She adds, "It has put me back on track.

"I'm back to normal, things couldn't be better. It's like a light bulb has come back on. It feels like summer again."

The actress returns to the big screen next week as she takes on the role of Kate Connor in the fourth instalment of the Terminator franchise. The film opened in America last week and finished at number two at the box office.