Emmerdale viewers expressed their concerns for Cathy Hope during Monday’s episode as fears heightened over her mental health problems.
The troubled teenager (Gabrielle Dowling), who has been struggling with mood swings, manic episodes and heavy periods for months, was at the centre of her father Bob’s (Tony Audenshaw) worries after she was recently seen clambering up onto a bridge edge during a manic episode.
While it was suggested Cathy is suffering from premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), which sees women battle a range of emotional and physical symptoms every month, the teen is still awaiting an official diagnosis.
However, after learning her woes may be something that go on for years, Cathy’s father Bob was seen breaking down as he worried about how he would be able to help his daughter.
But viewers did not have much sympathy for Bob, with some taking to Twitter to encourage him to be strong.
One person wrote: ‘Can Bob pull himself together. No wonder Cathy is struggling with a wet blanket for a father #Emmerdale.’
Someone else shared: ‘Good grief! Why not have a proper diagnosis before the melt down Bob! #emmerdale.’
While another Emmerdale fan wrote: ‘Why is Bob acting like she’s dying? A little bit ott.’
Another viewer posted: ‘Bloody hell Bob…keep it real son!’
Someone else wrote: ‘Bob is finally understanding Cathy’s problems… these mood swings are going to go crazy. Cathy could end up being the next murderer.’
Another fan tweeted: ‘Lucky that Cathy’s got Brenda, Wendy, and Bernice around to help, Bob. You ain’t alone #Emmerdale.’
And someone else shared: ‘Why the heck don’t they talk with Cathy. She’s the one suffering, not Bob #Emmerdale.’
It comes after Emmerdale fans watched on in horror as Cathy nearly died on Friday night’s episode.
He screamed: ‘I am on red alert most of the time. Scared of what’s going to upset you or make you lose your temper next.
‘And you know, you can’t hide behind your periods for everything.’
‘Thanks, dad for making me feel great about myself,’ Cathy said as she burst into tears.