Jameela Jamil says she is lucky to have survived after attempting suicide

Jameela Jamil has said she tried to take her own life six years ago and is “lucky” to have survived.

The Good Place actress, 33, has been open about struggling with an eating disorder when she was younger, and has now told how she suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Read more: Jameela Jamil apologises to fans for airbrushed photos

She said on Twitter that she attempted suicide in October, six years ago.

Writing on World Mental Health Day, Jamil said: “This month, 6 years ago, I tried to take my own life.

“I’m so lucky that I survived, and went on to use EMDR to treat my severe PTSD.

“I urge you to hang on just a bit longer and ask for help if you need it. Because things can turn around. I promise.”

Jamil went on: “There is so much work to do in improving awareness and mental health care, and we need to further de-stigmatise the conversation around asking for help.”

The actress is known for being candid on social media, where she often advocates for body positivity.

Earlier this week she revealed she had fought cancer twice, after someone criticised the way she dresses at her age.

Read more: Jameela Jamil says she has had cancer twice

Jamil described the remark as “the biggest nonsense”, and said in a follow-up message: “I would just like to say, that as someone who has been chronically ill my whole life, and had cancer twice, I find it EXTREMELY offensive that there is a cultural taboo around ageing.

“Those of us who fight for our lives and those who lost that fight young, deserve more respect.”

In a further tweet, the activist said: “It is a sickness of our society to look at ageing as anything other than an achievement/privilege.”

For confidential emotional support at times of distress, contact The Samaritans at any time by calling 116 123 or emailing jo@samaritans.org.