Helen Flanagan Reveals Dark Truth About Life After Split and Scary Mental Health Struggles

Helen Flanagan has candidly shared her emotional journey over the past year following her heartbreaking split from long-time partner, footballer Scott Sinclair. The former Coronation Street star, who was in a relationship with Scott for over a decade, revealed the depths of her struggles, including a “very scary” psychotic episode during a New Year’s trip to Bali with their three children: Matilda, 9, Delilah, 6, and Charlie, 3.

Reflecting on that turbulent time, Helen posted photos from the Bali trip and acknowledged the dramatic changes in her life over the past year. “This time last year: Christmas—I spent it in bed,” she shared. “I said to Scott he could have the kids… because I wanted to take the kids to Bali for ten days for New Year. But it really hit me out of nowhere. My love life was a st show that year… I didn’t look after my mental health or think. I felt so st and sad.”

Helen described the profound impact of the split, noting how her 13-year relationship, which encompassed her entire 20s, left her grappling with feelings of loss and failure. She also opened up about financial difficulties, saying: “I also lost basically all my money. Me and Scott weren’t married, we were engaged”, reported by the Mirror.

The pressures of single parenting and her deteriorating mental health led to dark thoughts. “My mental health was so bad I thought maybe my kids would be better off without me and maybe they would be better off with their dad as he’s more level-headed than me. When you are not well, you’re not well.”

This year, Helen made her mental health a priority, reconciling with loved ones and finding clarity. “In 2024, I prioritised my mental health, made up with a lot of people that I loved, and came to a bit of peace. My head is 70% clearer than it was this time last year, and for that, I am grateful.”

Helen also revealed that a psychotic episode last year stemmed from a bad reaction to ADHD medication, exacerbated by unresolved trauma from her breakup. “I don’t see it as a breakup, I see it as a divorce. We were together 13 years. Instead of processing it all, I threw myself into work and shut off my emotions… I was mentally and physically breaking down. It was really sad and very scary.”

Despite the challenges, Helen is now focused on healing and embracing a brighter future with her children. “Of course, my life isn’t perfect, but I have a lot to be grateful for,” she concluded.