Radio presenter and mental health advocate Roman Kemp has shared a significant update about his mental health journey, revealing that he has stopped taking antidepressants for the first time since he was 15 years old. The 31-year-old took to Instagram on Thursday to announce the milestone, sharing his reflections on the decision and the emotions that have followed.
A Personal Milestone
In a heartfelt post, Kemp explained that it has been four months since he stopped taking the medication, which had been a vital part of his life for over 16 years. While acknowledging the challenges, he expressed optimism about exploring his emotional side without the assistance of antidepressants.
“Now while I’m still learning about why I suddenly want to cry more and may get snappier at my friends, I’m excited at understanding what the emotional side of me is really like,” he wrote.
Roman emphasized that his decision was personal and not a statement for or against antidepressants, adding, “They helped me through a long period of mental struggle in my life, but I’m now ready to move on. Only posting in case anyone was ever worried about starting/stopping ❤️.”
Support from Friends and Fans
Kemp’s honesty was met with an outpouring of support from fans and celebrity friends alike. Musician Professor Green shared his own experiences, saying, “Would love to bend your ear at some point bro… huge step after all that time ❤️.
Drag Race UK star Cheryl Hole praised Kemp’s bravery, writing, “I’ve tried coming off mine but I’m not just there yet. You’re honesty constantly inspires me ❤️.” Broadcaster Sian Welby added, “Oh mate well done, this is such a big deal. Start of a new era. So proud of you ❤️.”
Other notable figures, including Maya Jama, Alison Hammond, and Hannah Waddingham, expressed their admiration and left heartfelt comments of support.
Mental Health Advocacy
Roman Kemp has been open about his long-term battle with depression, as well as his advocacy for mental health awareness. He became a vocal campaigner following the tragic death of his close friend and radio producer, Joe Lyons, who died by suicide in 2020.
In 2019, Kemp fronted the documentary Roman Kemp: Our Silent Emergency, where he candidly discussed his own experiences with suicidal thoughts and the importance of addressing mental health issues. He has since championed greater awareness, particularly around young people’s mental health.
In a previous interview, Kemp highlighted the importance of teaching mental health coping strategies early in life:
“Talking about mental health needs to start earlier than when we get to 16 and we’re doing PSHE. It has to be engrained into lessons… as early as possible.”
A Journey of Understanding
Kemp’s decision to stop taking antidepressants marks a significant chapter in his mental health journey, with his focus now on understanding his unmedicated emotional self. His bravery in sharing his experiences continues to resonate with fans, offering a message of hope and solidarity for others navigating their own mental health struggles.
For those in need of support, resources such as Samaritans (call 116 123) provide confidential help to anyone in emotional distress.
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