Louise Redknapp opens up about suicidal thoughts after split from ex-husband Jamie Redknapp

Louise Redknapp reveals her mental health struggles following her divorce in 2017

Louise Redknapp
(Image credit: Joe Maher / Getty Images)

Louise Redknapp has revealed that she had suicidal thoughts following her split from her ex-husband Jamie Redknapp. This news is revealed ahead of her new book launch, You’ve Got This: And Other Things I Wish I Had Known.

Louise Redknapp has revealed that she experienced suicidal thoughts following her break up from her husband of nearly 20-years, Jamie Redknapp. The former singer and her husband were married in 1998 and have two sons together. They announced their breakup in late 2017 and divorced in December 2017.

In an interview with Mail on Sunday’s You Magazine, Louise revealed that she dealt with suicidal thoughts following the end of her marriage. 

She said in the interview, “I sank to my knees, crouched down by the radiator and sobbed and sobbed. That was the first time I ever wondered whether I would be better off not being here.”

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Louise and Jamie Redknapp

(Image credit: David M. Benett / Getty Images)

Louise continued to say that sometimes she would consider throwing herself in front of a bus but never went through with the thought. “I would be standing in Central London, watching the buses whiz past and I would wonder whether it would be easier for a bus to take me out. All it would take was for me to step out at the wrong moment and it would all be over." 

When asked if she was genuinely contemplating suicide, Louise said, "I think so, for a split second."

Louise revealed that it was her two children that helped her get through this dark time. She stated, “I’ve got two people that need me, and they’re the loves of my life,” she continued, “they’re the only thing that kept me going. Them and my mum.”

Louise revealed that she struggled with her separation from Jamie Redknapp and although it was the right thing to do, she struggled to adjust. “I really took the wind out of myself. I feel like I lost a year of my life – like I almost can’t remember some of it,” said Louise.

Louise is in a much better place now and is currently promoting her new book, You’ve Got This: And Other Things I Wish I Had Known, which is set to launch in March 2021. She recently took to Instagram to thank her fans for their support ahead of her book launch. 

Louise said on social media, 'I wanted to touch base and thank you all, for all the messages I’ve received today. ‘You’ve Got This’ is by no means a tell-all autobiography, But I do talk about many different aspects of my life - some good, some bad, and other lessons I have learned along the way.'

Louise continued to give a positive message to her fans and encouraged them to be kind to one another. 'It is very difficult opening up as there is so much judgment, lack of compassion, and nasty comments in the world today but the one thing I’ve learned over the last few years is that kindness really can go a long way!' said Louise.

Fans have loved this message from Louise and have shown their support for the star. 

One fan said, 'Lovely words Louise. Congratulations on your book and keep being the kind lovely woman you are.'

Another fan said, 'I read your article today and it really resonated with me and how I once felt. It was so brave of you to share your inner thoughts with us all. Wishing you best of luck with the book, am looking forward to reading it.'

Celebrity friends of Louise also flocked to show their support. 

Denise Van Outen commented, 'You’re a beautiful person Louise.' 

Singer Gabrielle also showed her support by leaving a love heart emoji in the comment section. 

Laura Harman

Laura is the Entertainment Editor for woman&home who primarily covers television, film, and celebrity news. Laura loves drinking and eating and can often be found trying to get reservations at London's trendiest restaurants. When she's not wining and dining, Laura can also be found travelling, baking, and hiking with her dog.