Denise Welch praised for documenting depression on Twitter

Denise Welch has been praised for her openness when it comes to discussing mental health on social media.

The Loose Women panellist regularly posts candid videos discussing her depression and its impact on her life.

Mental health charities say celebrities discussing their difficulties can be a great help to others in a similar situation.

"We know that actually one in five people have spoken to their family and friends after hearing a celebrity be open about their mental health," Victoria Finan from Mind, told ITV News.

"People like Denise, who speak so openly about depression can encourage others to come forward and share their problems with their loved ones."

Welch says her depression takes away the "colour" from her life and admits finding simple tasks such as showering difficult during an episode.

In recent days, Welch has taken to Twitter to document her most recent depressive episode, saying on Monday she was feeling better and that her "unwanted visitor" was on his way out.