Beverley Callard says playing ‘Coronation Street’s Liz McDonald added to her "low self-esteem".
The 61-year-old actress has spoken openly about suffering from clinical depression in the past, and the cobbles star admits her alter-ego’s "unforgiving" wardrobe used to make her feel "more self-conscious".
She said: "I lacked confidence very much and I had very low self-esteem and the clothes I had to wear for Liz were very unforgiving.
"It was silly things like that which would make me feel more self-conscious and I think that could be a part of it but, of course, it is not the cause."
Bev admits being a "people pleaser" has also contributed to her depression, but insists starring in ‘Corrie’ was "a great help" to her mental health.
She added to BBC Radio Manchester: "I had very severe clinical depression and I put myself under pressure.
"I am a worrier. I tend to be a people pleaser because I’m insecure. I think those factors contribute. Once you’re on the road to recovery, the job can be a great help."
Last year, Bev admitted she thought Liz’s clothes were getting "worse", and joked she should be paid "a fortune" to wear some of the garish outfits her alter-ego dons on the soap.
In response to a fan who tweeted to ask how much extra ‘Corrie’ bosses had paid Bev to wear a pink blouse on last night’s (21.06.18) episode, she replied: "Yep, you’re right Liz’s clothes just get worse!!! X
"Lol. I should be earning a fortune! X (sic)"
In 2017, Bev said she never expected to suffer from depression because she is a "strong" and "feisty" woman.
She said: "I’m a workaholic and have to try to relax, which I don’t find easy.
"Overcoming clinical depression is the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do. I never thought it would happen to me. I’m a strong female, very feisty. But I think depression has a tendency to affect strong people, as we keep going no matter what."
Beverley Callard: Liz’s clothes added to woes
