Coronation Street viewers have watched Steve McDonald - one of the soap's most popular and funniest characters - slide into depression, battling to hide his problems from those around him.
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And Simon Gregson, who plays Steve, has now opened up about how he is dealing with the demanding storyline.
He said: "My first thoughts were, 'Have you chosen the right guy for the job?' because of the comedy element and the silliness that Steve brings to the show.
"Yet soon after I realised it was a very good move because if it could happen to Steve, it could happen to anybody."
The actor, who recently had to undergo hospital tests for a 'mystery illness', added that he has suffered with depression himself in the past.
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He said: "I've suffered a little bit myself in the past and I've got friends who have.
"That's why when I was told about this storyline I was determined to do it justice.
"I think [Steve is] frightened. It's a big label to put on somebody and his initial reaction is that he's just got a lot of stress and that he'll be fine. He doesn't want to accept he might be depressed. There's that pride thing, man up and put a brave face on it."
The storyline will continue into the New Year.
"We don't know how long it goes on for, there has to be a journey and a time where he does hit rock bottom," Simon explained.
"People do relate to what they are watching so to be able to tackle a serious subject like depression is a good thing."
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