In upcoming episodes of Coronation Street, Gemma Winter (Dolly-Rose Campbell) finds herself overwhelmed with the responsibility of looking after her five children, leaving her on the verge of a breakdown. As Gemma battles exhaustion, the weight of Paul’s illness adds to her burden, bringing back memories of her struggle with postnatal depression. With the mounting pressure, Gemma seeks solace in a heartfelt conversation with Rita Tanner (Barbara Knox) on Wednesday’s episode, who advises her to seek professional help from Dr. Gaddas.
On Friday’s episode, the situation takes a devastating turn as Gemma’s fatigue reaches a tipping point. Daniel Osbourne (Rob Mallard) and Michael Bailey (Ryan Russell) offer to take care of Bertie and Glory, hoping to alleviate some of Gemma’s stress. However, Gemma finds herself in a room full of energetic children and wonders how she will manage. Feeling the weight of the world on her shoulders, Gemma’s plight catches the attention of Bernie Winter (Jane Hazlegrove).
Having learned about the antidepressants from Chesney Brown (Sam Aston), Gemma’s concerned mother, Bernie, steps in to lend a helping hand. She offers to assist Gemma for an hour, allowing her to take a much-needed break at the café. Unfortunately, things take a turn for the worse when Beth Sutherland (Lisa George) confronts Gemma, criticizing her for not pulling her weight. Overwhelmed with emotion, Gemma rushes back home, fighting back tears.
In a momentary lapse of consciousness, Gemma closes her eyes, only to be met with a shocking discovery upon waking. To her horror, she realizes that Bertie has found a pack of antidepressant tablets.
As the events unfold, Daniel and Daisy Midgeley (Charlotte Jordan) arrive at No.5 and are met with a distressing scene: Bertie clutching the open pack of tablets.
The aftermath of this alarming incident will leave the residents of Coronation Street shaken, as they grapple with the potential consequences and rally together to ensure Bertie’s well-being. Will Gemma face blame for the unfortunate turn of events, or will the community come together to support her during this difficult time?
Coronation Street airs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8pm on ITV1