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Oddie in mental hospital with bout of depression
Anna Davis11.03.09
Bill Oddie is being treated at a mental health hospital for depression.
The television presenter and conservationist is at the Capio Nightingale hospital near Harley Street, where Amy Winehouse has been treated for crack, heroin and Valium addictions.
Oddie, 67, has suffered depression for much of his life and has spoken about it publicly.
His agent David Foster said: "Bill gets these bouts every two or three years where he gets down for about two weeks and recovers. He sometimes goes into hospital or takes a break or has a change of scenery to recharge his batteries."
A spokesman for the BBC said: "We wish him a speedy recovery."
In his autobiography published last year, Oddie wrote: "While I was writing this book, my brain stopped for a fourth time. I started waking up with those all too familiar feelings of anxiety. Not terrified, but nervous, slightly fearful." He added: "Filming Springwatch helped - my mood always improves when I am out in the great outdoors."
Reader views (7)
Good Luck, Bill,
We are all thinking of you and wishing you well and we are absolutely sure that you will come through and be back with us soon
- Cheryl Ives, Canterbury, Kent
It is great that this is being openly discussed. Depression affects so many people in so many ways yet is one of those conditions which people often seem to prefer to sweep under the carpet rather than accept it as "normal".
- Ross, London, UK
All the best Bill. Hope you make a really speedy recovery. Reagrds
- Edwrad Akyeampong, Geneva, Switzerland
Get well soon Bill, I know how you feel and its usually this time of year. My wife's rabbit stew always cheers me up!.
- Martin, London
He has always been a bit on the eccentric side but he has always made me laugh. Take your time - don't rush it.
- Louie, Bermondsey
I'm very sorry to hear this news,I wish Bill a speedy recovery.
- Mike Melbourne, Bedford England
Get well soon mate, you're a great bloke. x
- Paul, Bromley
