A POPULAR gym owner has opened about his battle with mental health as a plea for others to seek help.

Keith Devlin owner of Ironwerx Gym in Barrow opened up during mental health awareness week to reveal how he has been struggling with mental health.

As well as owning what was recently crowned as the most popular gym by Mail readers he was also a five time winner of the over 45 Mr Cumbria, two times winner of the over 50 Mr Britain, two times fourth in Mr Universe and one time fourth in Mr World.

Mr Devlin said: "To be honest I think people who go through it feel embarrassed that, for whatever reason, life suddenly or gradually gets on top of them and they feel they can’t cope, which is what happened to me about 8 weeks or so ago.

"I had what, in the old days would have been called a nervous breakdown, which was why I was off work at the gym, not a tummy bug as I told people.

"You will find a lot of people who suffer from depression and anxiety put a public mask on despite being in the depths of despair. This is also why it’s important, if that’s how you are feeling, to be honest with loved ones, family and friends so you can get the help and support you need and to be directed to the professionals for help.

"I was lucky because I had a sympathetic doctor, called Doctor Taylor of the Atkinson Heath Centre - a brilliant surgery all round from reception to nurses to doctors. She directed me to First Steps and prescribed me an antidepressant called Sertraline.

"She explained to me how it could initially make my symptoms worse and also cause anxiety, which it did and still does to the extent that I find it impossible to go out for a meal or be in crowds - but I am slowly improving.

"So, if people think if any of their friends or family are showing the symptoms I described then, please please, get them to get help before their depression escalates out of control."

If you are having difficulties you can contact the Samaritans free helpline 24hours a day 365 days a year by phoning 116 123.