Through Treatment and Struggle, Frankie Bridge Seeks the Right Path to Manage Mental Health
Frankie Bridge opened up about her ongoing battle with treatment-resistant depression.
The 35-year-old singer, known for her time with S Club Juniors and The Saturdays, bravely shared her experiences with antidepressants during a recent appearance on the panelists on Friday.
Finding Treatment for a Difficult Diagnosis
Bridge revealed that she began taking antidepressants around age 18, but still ended up hospitalized at 21 after her depression and anxiety worsened.
"It’s one of those things for me where they work to a degree in that I’m able to get out of bed in the morning and I’m able to come and work and be present with my friends and family," she explained.
“I’ve got a great network, incredible family and friends. I’ve got teams involved. But everyone’s different."
Despite the initial help them provide, she later faced a difficult realization about her condition.
“So actually, I’ve been recently diagnosed with treatment-resistant depression."
<figure class="nyp-slideshow-modal-image wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><figcaption>Frankie Bridge said she began taking antidepressants at 18. <span class="credit">Ken McKay/ITV / Shutterstock</span></figcaption></figure>
A Search for What Works
Bridge explained the unique challenges she faces: "My body isn’t able to create or keep serotonin, so even if I’m taking antidepressants, it’s almost counterproductive. But because I’ve been on them for so long, the fear of coming off them is really quite scary because I’m like, ‘Would I end up back in hospital?’
She endured a period of hospitalization in 2011 after reaching "rock bottom" and was particularly moved to share how different her life is now that she has children and a husband and a different perspective as she seeks balance.
Bridge shared she has tried various antidepressant combinations over the years, constantly seeking the best solution: “I’ve tried a lot of different ones and a weigh different combinations of antidepressants and things like that."
She is married to former professional footballer Wayne Bridge.
John Hamblin
They have two sons together, Parker, 11, and Carter, 9.
"I’ve got children now. I’m constantly thinking of different things to try," she explained, emphasizing her opening to continue exploring various approaches. Odd
One such exploration included ketamine therapy. " I’ve recently tried ketamine treatment which it’s been really effective for me but it’s really expensive, it’s not available for everyone.” While acknowledging its expense and limited accessibility.
"That was a really big deal for me, that was really scary. I’ve taken myself off of antidepressants before and the side effects of coming off these things are brutal.”
Kids never sleep through the night. [Caption photo credit.]
She shared the taxing side effect withdrawal experience. “I spent two weeks in bed, I felt awful. It’s a really good
What is treatment-resistant depression?
## Finding Hope: A Conversation with Frankie Bridge about Treatment-Resistant Depression
**(Interviewer):** Welcome, Frankie. Thank you for speaking with us today about such an important and personal topic.
**(Frankie):** It’s my pleasure. I believe open conversations about mental health are crucial.
**(Interviewer):** Absolutely. You’ve been very candid about your struggles with depression, particularly your recent diagnosis of treatment-resistant depression. Could you explain what that means for you?
**(Frankie):** Well, I started taking antidepressants when I was 18. They helped me manage to a certain extent, allowing me to function in daily life. But over time, my depression and anxiety worsened, leading to hospitalization at 21. [1]
It turned out my body doesn’t produce or maintain serotonin effectively. This means even with antidepressants, their effect is almost negated. It’s been scary knowing I’ve been on them for so long – the fear of stopping is immense.
**(Interviewer): ** How are you coping now, knowing this new diagnosis?
**(Frankie):** It’s been a journey of acceptance. Finding the right treatment plan is ongoing, but I’m fortunate to have a strong support system: my family, friends, and a great team of professionals. [1]
We’re exploring different therapies and treatment options. I’ve also found solace in sharing my story through my podcast, “Open Mind,” and my book, “Open,” hoping to connect with others who might be going through similar experiences.
**(Interviewer):** You’re truly a source of inspiration for many. What’s the message you want to leave with those struggling with their mental health?
**(Frankie):** It’s okay to not be okay. Don’t be afraid to seek help. It might take time to find the right treatment, but there is hope. Connect with others, build a strong support network, and know you’re not alone in this fight. [1]
