Smith, who describes motherhood as her “toughest role yet”, ended up giving birth under lockdown which added to her anxiety, but she was also able to show other women what that process looks like.

“What I’ve learnt during this documentary is that the worst thing you can do is to close off,” she says. “[…] You don’t need to feel ashamed or guilty for all these horrible feelings I have felt too, like you think you’re not good enough. It’s okay to need help.”

Sheridan Smith: Becoming Mum is available on the ITV hub now.

If you need help with perinatal mental health issues, seek support with the NHS, Mind or the Maternal Mental Health Alliance. For confidential support call the Samaritans in the UK on 08457 90 90 90 or visit a local Samaritans branch.

Images: ITV, Getty

Sheridan Smith: Becoming Mum – everyone’s talking about this “heartfelt” documentary on maternal mental health