Roman Kemp’s documentary, Our Silent Emergency, aired for the first time earlier this week and since, it has been met with nothing but praise.
The BBC show is about mental health, and comes in the wake of Roman losing his friend Joe Lyons to suicide last year.
Throughout the show, the radio DJ focuses on the mental health crisis in the UK, particularly amongst men. This is a problem that we are also facing here in Ireland, with many people’s mental health suffering amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
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In the hour long documentary, the 28-year-old notes his own struggles in the past with mental health, including a period where he battled suicidal thoughts at just 15-years-old.
Roman also reveals that he took antidepressants at the time, and the show centres around encouraging anyone who feels this way to seek help and support.
Overall, the show is incredibly emotional and includes Roman speaking to others who have also lost friends to suicide.
Following its release, fans and famous friends shared their praise for the documentary, with many applauding Roman for tackling these issues with such sensitivity and bravery.
Niall Horan said, “So proud of my mate Roman Kemp. That was eye opening and beautiful all at the same time. We all must look out for each other. The two ok rule, always ask twice. #OurSilentEmergency.”
UK presenter Emily Atack added, “Really moved by Roman Kemp: Our Silent Emergency. Such an important doc that could really help someone who may be suffering in silence. Brave and brilliant.”
For those in the UK, Roman Kemp’s documentary is available to watch on BBC iPlayer, however, for now, there’s no Irish air date. We’ll keep you posted when we hear more.
If you or anyone you know has been affected by any of the topics in this article, please know that help is available.
Samaritans services are available 24 hours a day, for confidential, non-judgmental support. Freephone 116 123
Pieta provide a range of suicide and self-harm prevention services. Freephone 1800 247 24.
More information and services can be found here.