EastEnders has announced details of a hard-hitting suicide storyline for over the festive period.
The plotline - airing on New Year's Eve - will see Mick Carter (Danny Dyer) contemplate taking his own life after struggling to come to terms with the childhood abuse he suffered at the hands of Katy Lewis (Simone Lahbib).
Since Katy appeared in Walford, things have spiralled rapidly for Mick, who has alienated his family and watched on despondently as his wife has begun an affair - and as the truth about his abuse hits home, Mick feels that he has no alternative but suicide.
The storyline mirrors that of Mick's son Lee (Danny-Boy Hatchard), who found himself on a car park roof and considering jumping exactly four years ago following a battle with depression.
"This storyline is such a vital one for EastEnders to portray," said exec producer Jon Sen. "We've worked closely with the NSPCC and Survivors UK since the inception of this story and as viewers have watched Mick struggle to come to terms with the truth of what happened to him as a child, we were determined to show the brutal reality and effects that abuse can cause.
"Working with the Samaritans has been invaluable to ensure that Mick's story is true to life and they've been a huge support, offering guidance throughout the process.
"Danny gives an incredible performance and we hope his portrayal of Mick's trauma will help dispel the stigma that survivors are often burdened with."
Lorna Fraser, lead of the media advice service at the Samaritans, said: "Suicide is not inevitable and just having someone there to listen, without judgement, can help save a life.
"We have been pleased to work with EastEnders giving expert advice on Mick Carter's story, as it's a chance to explore some of the issues surrounding suicide in a sensitive and considered way."
The New Year's episode of EastEnders will air on BBC One at 7.30pm.
Neil Wilkes
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