Ken Skates, the new leader of Welsh Labour, has revealed his decades-long struggle with anxiety and depression, which he says began in his childhood.
Skates sought help after his symptoms became most severe while he was studying at the University of Cambridge, leading to a diagnosis of generalised anxiety disorder and depression. He described experiencing dissociation, a feeling of being detached from himself, as though he was "watching" his own life and that "nothing feels real".
Born in Wrexham, the Member of the Senedd (MS) for Fflint Wrecsam was confirmed as Welsh Labour leader in July. This followed significant losses for the party in May's Senedd election, which ended 27 years of Welsh Labour rule.
Skates, who grew up near Mold, Flintshire, said his childhood was influenced by industrial decline and job losses at Shotton steelworks, where his parents worked. He stated that these experiences fostered a strong sense of injustice, drawing him into politics.
He recalled being an anxious child, "always keen to please" and eager to avoid conflict, traits he still recognises. Skates credits treatment and talking therapies with helping him manage his condition.