'EastEnders' have teamed up with Samaritans to work on a new Bex Fowler storyline.
Jasmine Armfield
The character - played by Jasmine Armfield - has been seen struggling with teenage pressures in recent months which will result in her attempting to take her own life, and the BBC One soap sought advice from the charity to ensure they play out the plot as accurately and sensitively as possible.
Jon Sen, executive producer on 'EastEnders', said: "We wanted to take Bex on a journey which accurately reflected the crises facing many young people today - many of whom, like Bex, struggle under the mounting pressures placed on teenagers today.
"Having worked closely with Samaritans, our wish is that by telling this story we can encourage others in Bex's position to realise there's always help and there's always hope and we hope that others will be encouraged to start a conversation if they are worried about someone they know."
Lisa Fowler (Lucy Benjamin) will realise Bex is struggling in the coming weeks and she will try to help her out, but the teen will continue to suffer in silence.
Lorna Fraser, who leads on Samaritans' Media Advice Service, admits the charity were "pleased" to be contacted by the soap about the storyline.
They encourage anyone touched by the plot to speak to someone "they trust" or get in touch with the organisation, which aims to provide emotional support to anyone in emotional distress, struggling to cope, or at risk of suicide.
She said: "Suicide is clearly a very sensitive topic and we were pleased that 'EastEnders' contacted us for advice on how to approach Bex's storyline.
"Bex's story highlights the potential consequences of not seeking help if you're struggling to cope, and also the importance of starting a conversation if you think someone you know may be struggling. If you are worried about someone it's alright to ask if they're OK. For some it can be a huge relief to know that someone's spotted they may be going through a difficult time.
"As suicide rates in England and Wales rose in 2018 for the first time in five years, with an increase in deaths by young people and the suicide rate of women under 25 at a record high, it's vital that we increase understanding of what can be done to prevent this. Suicide is not inevitable and media can be a valuable channel to highlight this to the public. Handling compelling soap storylines responsibly offers an opportunity to reach a large audience and engage them with the topic of suicide, creating greater awareness of how they can help to prevent suicide and what support is available.
"We would encourage anyone who has been touched by Bex's storyline to speak to someone they trust or get in touch with Samaritans, we're here to offer support 24 hours a day, 365 days a year."
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