Melanie Chisholm, will share tales from her childhood in the North-West of England, to life as part of the biggest girl band on the planet as well as her mental health journey.
The Spice Girl was diagnosed with depression more than two decades ago and has often spoken about it as well as struggling with an eating disorder.
Mel said of her upcoming book: ‘It’s taken a long time to feel ready to tell my story. The last few years have given me an opportunity to reflect on the incredible career I’ve had and the huge obstacles I’ve managed to overcome. I’ve really enjoyed going back and reminding myself of the wonderful journey life has been so far. I’m very excited to share my experiences with you all.’
Editorial Director Oliver Holden-Rea of Welbeck Publishing added: ‘Melanie is an icon and an inspiration to so many people; and, given the incredible life she’s led, I would always have wanted to publish her book. But hearing her talk about what she’s been through and the message of strength and hope that she wants to convey, it has made me more excited to bring Who I Am to readers and fans everywhere. It’s a privilege to help her tell her story to the world.’
Last year Mel reflected on her battle with depression in a candid interview, stressing the importance of reaching out to loved ones for help. While chatting on The Graham Norton Radio Show on Virgin Radio, Mel encouraged her fans to ‘never be embarrassed’ to talk about their mental health.
Mel, whose full name is Melanie Chisholm, explained how at first she was too ‘ashamed’ to talk about it, but speaking about how she was feeling was an essential part of getting well again.
She said: ‘I kept those secret and I think people are quite aware of it around you but they don’t know how to approach you. I think I would have just said “people love you and care about you, please reach out to them”… So often you need that external help, you have to be ready, but you do need help and personally for me I needed professional help.’
The Who I Am singer, who was known as Sporty Spice in the girl band, continued that she thinks many people are ’embarrassed’ to speak up despite it being vital. She added: ‘I’ve suffered with an eating disorder as well. I think a lot of people feel very ashamed and very embarrassed about it like it’s a weakness and you’ve lost this control. It’s so important to reach out and never, ever be embarrassed. We all have problems and concerns. People need people.’
