Matthew Wright, 53, started his career at the age of 14, appearing in the Children’s Film Foundation. He became a showbiz correspondent with The Sun and later wrote a column for the Daily Mirror. Wright was then chosen to front Channel 5’s daily topical discussion series, The Wright Stuff, later becoming the lead presenter. Wright quit the Channel 5 morning programme back in June last year, with Jeremy Vine taking over with his new self-titled show
The years of having to wake up early and present took their toll on the presenter, who revealed he sought help from a doctor after suffering from sleepless nights.
Speaking about the diagnosis, he told The Sun: “It’s difficult to deal with. I thought maybe it’s just because I’m used to waking up early in the morning, but the doctor said ‘no, it is a sign of post-traumatic stress’.”
He continued: ”I think if I hadn’t got out, or left when I did, I don’t know what kind of state I’d be in today.”
Matthew admitted he was “slightly reluctant” to quit his presenting role on The Wright Stuff at first but he’s now glad he did for the sake of his health.
“When I look back now, after 18 years of early mornings doing the same kind of thing, that’s probably enough. If I had carried on I do think it would have impacted me and my family.”
The true stress of what Wright dealt with on a day-to-day basis became clear for him when he struggled with his mental state. After seeking help from his doctor, Matthew was told his PTSD symptoms would fade with time.
Post-traumatic stress disorder is an anxiety disorder caused by very stressful, frightening or distressing events.
Symptoms include re-experiencing with flashbacks, nightmares, repetitive and distressing images or sensation and physical sensations, such as pain, sweating, feeling sick or trembling.
Some people have constant negative thoughts about their experience, repeatedly asking themselves questions that prevent them coming to terms with the event.
Many people with PTSD also have problems including depression, drug misuse, headaches, dizziness, chest pains or stomach aches.
Fellow broadcaster Richard Bacon and actress Keira Knightley have also previously discussed their battle with PTSD.
It’s normal to experience upsetting and confusing thoughts after a traumatic event, but in most people these improve naturally over a few weeks
NHS
Many people with PTSD also have problems including depression, drug misuse, headaches, dizziness, chest pains or stomach aches.
Fellow broadcaster Richard Bacon and actress Keira Knightley have also previously discussed their battle with PTSD.
The NHS said: “It’s normal to experience upsetting and confusing thoughts after a traumatic event, but in most people these improve naturally over a few weeks.
“You should visit your GP if you or your child are still having problems about four weeks after the traumatic experience, or the symptoms are particularly troublesome.”
Wright is now a radio show host for TalkRadio called the Matthew Wright show. He presents every week day from 1pm to 4pm. Speaking about his radio show, Wright said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining talkRADIO at this fascinating time in history when there’s so much to discuss and debate.
My new afternoon show will see me team up with Fleet Street legend, critic Kevin O’Sullivan.”
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