EastEnders star Danny Dyer visits Bower Park Academy, Romford

The actor, who portrayed Mick Carter on screen, spoke to year 10 pupils from Bower Park Academy on Tuesday (May 9) during a workshop arranged by mental health charity Mind of the Student.

Highlighting the importance of talking about mental health to pupils, he specifically addressed teenage boys - with the charity saying suicide is the second most common reason for death among men under 45.

Mind of the Student organised the talk as part of its campaign across London to educate secondary school pupils about topics like depression, anxiety, social media pressures and exam stress.

Danny Dyer addresses pupils at Bower Park Academy (Image: Mind of the Student)

Kieran Goodwin, the charity's chief executive, said it was a “brilliant moment” for pupils to meet and hear Danny’s personal experiences and views on the subject.

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He said: “Having people like Danny open up about his past will break down stigma and encourage more students to open up about their emotions, with friends, family and healthcare professionals, if required.”

Kieran started the charity with chief operating officer Jaylan Sesli to help fight the stigma around the topic and provide self-help tips after they suffered from anxiety in secondary school themselves.

Eddie Aylett, newly-appointed principal of Bower Park, said: “Mental health is something we really drive in our academy. It is so important, especially post-Covid. To have Danny Dyer support the Mind of the Student charity and its amazing work was a privilege.”

When life is difficult, the Samaritans is available 365 days, 24/7. Call for free on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, or visit www.samaritans.org.