Roman Kemp says mum Shirlie 'taught me how to talk about my battle with depression'

Finding the courage to admit “I’m not OK” can be one of the most important steps in coping with depression. It’s also often one of the most daunting.

Fortunately for Roman Kemp, 29, his mother Shirlie Holliman knows how to get him talking, even in his darkest moments.

The Capital FM radio DJ, who was diagnosed with depression aged 15, says Shirlie perfected the art of waiting for the right moment to bring up sensitive topics with her teenage son, using journeys between school, clubs or friends’ houses as a quiet moment to check in.