Comedian Rob Beckett has revealed he thought 'it would be better if he was dead' during a low point in his mental health struggles.
Writing in his autobiography A Class Act, the 35-year-old explained that the negative thoughts began to creep in when filming TV show Rob & Romesh Vs in South Africa, despite appearing to have a 'good time' on camera.
According to the Mirror, he wrote: "On January 4, 2020, I was nailing it.
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"I had just flown into Cape Town, South Africa, in first class to film a TV show.
"The show was watching cricket, drinking beer and going on safari with one of my best mates AND getting paid.
"This filming was squeezed in during a nationwide sell-out tour. Happily married to the love of my life, with two kids in a family home newly renovated, I had surpassed my wildest dreams."
He continued: "But I was the unhappiest I have ever been.
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"I woke up on January 5 in a five-star hotel room thinking it would be better and easier for everyone if I was dead.
"I put on a smile and finished filming. I got back to the UK and told my wife and my friend/manager how I felt."
He says he immediately booked himself in for weekly therapy sessions for six months and will continue to book sessions whenever it feels necessary.
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He went on to write: "I am telling you this as I always promote the message that people should talk about mental health, but I rarely do.
"So here I am, talking. I wanted to die when I had everything I ever wanted. So never judge yourself for feeling low.
"Tell someone and they will help you feel better."
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After being able to face up to his mental health issues, he has urged others to seek help when needed.
He wrote: "Each day can be a success if you go to bed after enjoying your day and you look forward to the next one.
"It has taken a long time and been quite a journey to get to this place, but I think Rob Beckett the person is learning to be as confident as Rob Beckett the performer."
Rob Beckett's new autobiography A Class Act is available from 14 Oct 2021.
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Topics: Mental Health, comedian