The STACEY storyline this week is being handled superbly by the EASTENDERS writing team - it is very close to real life and very hard to watch for anyone who has seen at first hand how this illness ( Bi Polar for want of another word ) can effect a family.

I generally dont watch soaps but I am watching this week's episodes because the leads in this story are two of the most talented actresses with an incredible storyline.

Unlike their total mishandling of the Bianca - boyfriend - storyline - this one has been researched properly and shows something that rarely gets any coverage.

Stephen Fry has done alot to raise the profile of this illness - but he is rich and talented. For most people they cant just lock themselves away for a few days when they get an "attack" - as a society we have not yet worked out how to deal with ordinary people with this illness. They need flexible jobs - and understanding employers.....and lots of support.

How we look after the weakest in our society will be how we are judged by history. Hopefully this Eastenders storyline will help everyone to be more willing to provide support to the large number of people who suffer from this illness.

Mental Health is something that should be top of the NHS and Government agenda.

Excellent post, BR. I totally agree.

Good one BR. You're now officially "off the hook" re your Gordon Brown comment, loosely based around the same subject matter.

Today is Mental Health Day ( Sat 10th October )

www.time-to-change.org.uk/home/

Good website with resources.