Emmerdale star Bradley Riches has revealed to fans that he once tried to take his own life in what was an incredibly dark period in the years before he found success18:52, 02 Sep 2026Updated 18:53, 02 Sep 2026Emmerdale star Bradley Riches has made the heartbreaking confession that he once tried to take his own life.‌The actor, 24, found fame when he joined the cast of Heartstopper in 2022 and is now known as Lewis Barton in Emmerdale but admitted that just two years before landing his first major role, he was in a very different place.‌On Wednesday, he wrote on Instagram : "I always get nervous talking about my experience and my life, but I want to share this. And hopefully don't get scared and delete it. In 2020, I tried to end my life. At the time, I couldn't see a life beyond that moment. I didn't know who I was, or whether things could ever feel different."‌In the next slide, Bradley listed his many achievements since those dark times, including writing a best-selling book centred on his autism, winning awards and marrying the "love of his life" earlier this year.He added: "There may be a moment where you genuinely can't see a reason to stay. I know that feeling. But please, stay for the things you haven't experienced yet.‌"You are loved. You are important. Your story is not finished. I'm so, so glad I stayed [white heart emoji]. September is Suicide Prevention Month (it is a month, but trying to stay is a whole year thing). If you're struggling, please tell someone. You don't have to carry it alone."The former Celebrity Big Brother star then told his followers in the caption of his post that his confession might not be around on social media for long because he would instantly worry about the reaction.‌He wrote alongside the post: "I will post this then two seconds delete it as I get scared. But I’m gonna post this and not look on my phone for a bit. Love you all x"However, Bradley was instantly supported by fans in the comments section of his post over his admission, with one writing: "such a inspiration."Another simply said: "Love you," and left a red heart emoji. A third wrote: "Raw, beautiful and honest. Please don’t delete." Another wrote: " Idon’t know you but I honestly believe you are a beautiful human, please don’t delete this could help someone"Article continues belowA fifth said: "Oh my gosh, please don’t delete, this is what’s needed - more raw, honest posts. I’m glad you’re here and so is everyone else. Keep being fab, you’ve got such a lovely energy about you."If you're struggling and need to talk, the Samaritans operate a free helpline open 24/7 on 116 123. Alternatively, you can email _jo@samaritans.org or visit their site to find your local branchFollow Mirror Celebs and TV on TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads