There are devastating scenes ahead in EastEnders as depressed Lee Carter can finally take no more and prepares to take his own life. With the overwhelming pressure he has been under coming to a head, the tortured local can see no way out and finds the any light or hope firmly extinguished.

Having been in the grips of depression, Lee has been struggling to keep his head above the water and crippling debts, the guilt and fear from the robbery, the feelings that he isn’t good enough for Whitney and the traumatic miscarriage have gradually left him unable to cope.



As things become too much, fans have seen Lee leave a note for his loved ones which simply apologises – and his family could be about to face the prospect of losing him forever.

As Lee contemplates ending it all, EastEnders have been working closely with Samaritan’s on the storyline as depression and suicide among young men has continued to soar in the UK.


The upcoming episode of EastEnders will see a trapped Lee prepare to end his life and the scenes will prove emotional as viewers will be left hoping that someone can convince Lee that there can be light at the end of the darkness he is enduring.

It remains to be seen whether this is the end for Lee or whether he can be persuaded that he can get through this.

Lorna Fraser, Samaritans’ Media Adviser said: ‘Given the sensitivities with covering the topic of suicide we were pleased that EastEnders came to us for guidance on Lee Carter’s storyline.

‘Increasing people’s understanding on the issues surrounding suicide, such as the kinds of problems that can lead a person to experience suicidal feelings and encouraging people to seek help, can help generate conversation and for some this can be a lifeline.

‘Coverage of suicide, in drama and news, carries an element of risk, therefore it’s important that guidance is sought. Samaritans has been working with the media for over two decades providing expert advice on this.

‘We would encourage any viewers who have been touched by Lee’s story to get in touch with Samaritans, we are here day and night, to listen and give confidential support. People can call us free of charge on 116123, or email jo@samaritans.orgor find the details for your local branch at www.samaritans.org. Calls to Samaritans’ helpline do not show up on phone bills.’

Danny-Boy Hatchard added: ‘Lee’s storyline is covering such an incredibly important and serious issue and I can only hope that his journey will encourage people to speak out about their problems and come to realise they are not alone.’

The scenes will air on Friday 30th December at 8pm on BBC One.

For confidential support call the Samaritans in the UK on 08457 90 90 90 or visit the Samaritans website.

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