‘Raw and brave’: Roman Kemp’s mental health documentary moves viewers to tears

Many celebrities, including MistaJam and Niall Horan, have praised the programme

Roman Kemp has thanked fans on Twitter who have flocked to the platform to praise his new mental health documentary, Our Silent Emergency.

BBC One aired the show, which explores the mental health and suicide crisis affecting young men, on Tuesday night (16 March).

TV and radio star Kemp, who is the son of Spandau Ballet bassist Martin Kemp and Wham! singer Shirlie Holliman, lost his best friend Joe Lyons to suicide last summer.

In the documentary, Kemp takes a closer look at the urgent issue of young men’s mental health, exploring why increasing numbers are taking their own lives and the reasons why so many of them never ask for help.

Viewers praised Roman for his openness and bravery throughout the programme. Many also noted how important it was for opening up the dialogue on suicide and Roman’s pledge to ask twice if someone is okay.

DJ MistaJam wrote: “I could relate to so much in #OurSilentEmergency. I’ve had some really dark moments where I was convinced people would be better off without me. I’m so grateful that all my attempts failed & I got help so I’m able to be here now. Suicide isn’t the answer.”

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“So proud of my mate @romankemp,” added singer Niall Horan. “That was eye opening and beautiful all at the same time. We all must look out for eachother. The two ok rule, always ask twice. #OurSilentEmergency.”

Kemp tweeted: “Seeing people now checking on their friends and asking twice is incredible. We ALL need to do it. Thank you for the messages and thank you so much to the Lyons family for letting me show just how incredible Joe was.”

You can find helpful tips on how to start a conversation, or if you are worried about someone else, on Samaritans website. You can contact the Samaritans helpline by calling 116 123. The helpline is free and open 24 hours a day every day of the year. You can also contact Samaritans by emailing jo@samaritans.org. The average response time is 24 hours.