AN SNP MP has spoken candidly in the House of Commons about her experience of depression.
Kirsty Blackman, appearing in person in the Commons for the first time in more than a year, says she has been "battling with the black dog of depression” during the pandemic and urged people to reach out to those in need.
The Aberdeen North representative stepped down from her role as the party’s Westminster deputy leader in July, citing mental health reasons.
She told MPs: "This is the first time that I've stood in this House to speak since January 2020. During the past year and a bit, like so many of our constituents, I've been battling with the black dog of depression and I know that so many people have so I crave your indulgence for a small moment.
"Please, if you know somebody who is not being themselves recently, reach out to them, ask them if they're OK, let them know it's OK to not be OK. Offer them help, but most importantly, let them know that you are there when they're ready to talk or if they're ready to talk.”
She added: "I think it's hugely important that all of our constituents understand that they're not battling this alone, there are so many of us."
The comments were commended by Deputy Speaker Eleanor Laing.
She said: "I'm sure the whole House will have heard what (she) said and she's courageous to give her advice here in the chamber and people would do well to listen to her advice and we're glad to see her back."
Those sentiments were echoed by Tory Treasury minister Jesse Norman.
He added: "I think it's absolutely in order and right for her to bring this very, very important issue back to the House, to do so in such a personal way only gives it additional force.
"I doubt there is a member of this House whose own life has not been affected in one way or another, either by the concern she describes, personal, the black dog, depression, however it may be or their own family or friends."
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