Edge Hill University’s new Edge Ahead podcast continues with the latest episode of the ‘What’s in Your Head?’ series on mental health through the inspiring story of James Sutton, Hollyoaks and Emmerdale actor, writer and creator of the Protocol website.
Former Premier League goalkeeper and Edge Hill Honorary Doctor Chris Kirkland and popular regional podcaster Gareth Roberts sat for a candid conversation with James to explore the vital, often-hidden topic of men’s mental health, the pressures of fame and how James found strength through vulnerability.
As the host of his own podcast, Male Mind Matters, James emphasises that communication is not just a therapeutic tool for the individual, it’s an act of collective encouragement.
“Not only are you lightening your own load, but you’re also giving the person you’re talking to permission to do the same thing and to pass that forward. I want to create a society where men feel like they have permission to do that.”
James opens up about the immense pressure he faced early in his career. While training at drama school, he suffered from a debilitating series of panic attacks that lasted six months. At the time, with no public conversation or reference points for mental health, he genuinely thought he was “going mad”.
The anxiety was so intense it led to him missing classes, prompting lecturers to question whether he could even complete the course. His struggle demonstrates how mental health issues can surface without a specific trigger.
“It just happens, that’s what we have to understand as well, that mental health crisis isn’t always rooted in something. It just happens.”
The actor also discusses the toxic culture of celebrity that contributed to his later breakdown, including heavy drinking and a lack of self-care practices that ultimately led to his divorce. He stresses that fame should be the “perfume of talent.” not the goal itself and advises young creatives to focus on their craft and professional training to stay grounded.
“I think from the outside looking in, things were probably quite good. I got this TV career and I was being invited to various things, it’s quite glitzy and glamorous, that world is quite intoxicating.
“But that world only works well if you have healthy practices alongside it. You can’t have it both ways. You can’t party hard and expect to be in the best physical shape.”
James discusses the emotional weight of portraying complex, heavy storylines on Hollyoaks as John Paul, including sexual assault and struggles with sexuality. He talks about the immense responsibility he felt toward the LGBTQ+ community and survivors of sexual violence, highlighting the invaluable support he received from organisations like We Are Survivors to ensure the truth and accuracy of the performance.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the realities of the TV industry, the stigma surrounding male emotions and the simple, powerful steps we can all take to prioritise our minds.
Episodes of Edge Ahead, featuring expert guests and inspirational stories, are available to stream on Spotify and YouTube now. Whether you’re on campus or tuning in from afar, Edge Hill invites everyone to join the conversation.
Edge Hill University offers a dedicated student support service, providing mental health and wellbeing advice, as well as other help and support.
November 19, 2025
