Catherine Zeta Jones has received treatment for bipolar disorder
By Charlotte Fantelli
The news came after the star had admitted to having struggled with the stress of her husband Michael Douglas's battle with throat cancer.
Ms Zeta Jones' publicist Cece Yorke stated that she had decided to seek help from a "mental health facility" and had been there for a short stay of five days. She is now out of the care of the establishment and is said to be feeling much better.
Michael Douglas, was diagnosed with throat cancer last year, although he is now said to be tumour free and battling the condition. Obviously an illness like this puts strain on the sufferer and their family and it is evident that Catherine, who had admitted to having been 'furious that Michael's illness was not found sooner' has been under stress.
Also last year, Mr Douglas's son Cameron, from a previous marriage, was sentenced to prison on drug charges. This has not been an easy year for the whole family. At times of extreme stress any underlying mental health issue can be exacerbated and it is clear that this is what happened here.
"After dealing with the stress of the past year, Catherine made the decision to check in to a mental health facility for a brief stay to treat her Bipolar II disorder," said Cece Yorke.
"She's feeling great and looking forward to starting work this week on her two upcoming films."
It has not been mentioned whether this is a new diagnosis or something the star was already receiving help with, but what we do know is she has bravely battled this in the public arena, not shying away from her diagnosis. We need more people as talented and loved as Ms Zeta Jones to talk openly about their illnesses in order to dispel the myths and stigma that surround these problems.
In February this year Catherine was awarded a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) medal by Prince Charles for her services to charity and the film industry, her beauty and acting talent has made her a firm favourite world wide. She seems to be another example of how mental illness does not discriminate, that no-one is immune from the disorders that ruin the lives of so many. The fact that Ms Zeta Jones did the right thing and sought help for herself and also spoke openly is a shining example to us all.
Uncovered wishes her all the best in her recovery.
Please see our recent report that 'Catherine hid depression from michael Douglas'
Please see bipolar disorder
