To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web
browser that
supports HTML5
video
James Blunt has hit back at Paddy McGuinness, who described clinical depression as much like being at one of his concerts with no way out.
The You’re Beautiful hitmaker, 51, has never been one to take himself too seriously and his recent social media activity has officially crowned him the king of self-depreciation.
Earlier this month radio star Paddy, 51, chatted to RTE One in a candid interview about his struggle with clinical depression.
While trying to describe what it feels like, Paddy explained: ‘The best way to describe clinical depression is depression on steroids.
‘I’m not being very fair to him, but it’s almost being at a James Blunt concert and they’ve closed the exits. Then when you finally get one open and burst through it, you’re in another James Blunt concert.
‘He’s a lovely fella by the way, but it’s the only analogy I could think of.’
Paddy went on to explain that when he had depression, he didn’t realise it.
He said: ‘My wife at the time said, “You’ve not been yourself for ages.” I thought I was just a bit stressed at work, a bit irritable. Clearly, I’d taken a massive turn.’
Always keen for a tour plug, weeks later James has posted the interview on his X account and said: ‘Suddenly clinical depression sounds quite fun. Tickets available here: http://jamesblunt.com/tour.’
To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web
browser that
supports HTML5
video
Fans were proud of his comeback.
‘As ever, Blunt defends with a straight bat and hits a boundary. Stylish chap that he is,’ X user James Miller wrote.
‘It’s nice to be mentioned,’ joked another fan called Anita, while Fiona said: ‘I know it is a joke, but seriously, he has clearly never been to a James Blunt concert. Absolute joy.’
Symptoms of depression
See a GP if you experience symptoms of depression for most of the day, every day, for more than 2 weeks.
The psychological symptoms of depression include:
- continuous low mood or sadness
- feeling hopeless and helpless
- having low self-esteem
- feeling tearful
- feeling guilt-ridden
- feeling irritable and intolerant of others
- having no motivation or interest in things
- finding it difficult to make decisions
- not getting any enjoyment out of life
- feeling anxious or worried
- having suicidal thoughts or thoughts of harming yourself
The physical symptoms of depression include:
- moving or speaking more slowly than usual
- changes in appetite or weight (usually decreased, but sometimes increased)
- constipation
- unexplained aches and pains
- lack of energy
- low sex drive (loss of libido)
- disturbed sleep – for example, finding it difficult to fall asleep at night or waking up very early in the morning
The social symptoms of depression include:
- having difficulties in your home, work or family life
- avoiding contact with friends and taking part in fewer social activities
- neglecting your hobbies and interests
Paddy might have actually done James a favour here, as he heads out on his Back to Bedlam 20th Anniversary Tour this year in a string of far-flung dates across the pond.
The former soldier is kicking things off in Canada on June 12, before touring through the US and then South America, Europe and Australia.
Shortly after leaving the army in 2002, James attended his first ever gig – which was his.
He went on to become one of the biggest (and highest) British voices of the 00s, with hits including You’re Beautiful, Goodbye My Lover, Wiseman and 1973.
Lately, James has spent his time touring, almost falling off pianos in London venues and firing perfect shots – largely at himself – on social media.
Need support?
For emotional support, you can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website.
Their HOPELINE247 is open every day of the year, 24 hours a day. You can call 0800 068 4141, text 88247 or email: pat@papyrus-uk.org.
Got a story?
If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.