Mum of This Morning Star Who Took His Own Life Aged 19 Says ‘He Didn’t Understand Himself’ as She Makes Desperate Plea
The Heartbreaking Story of Matty Lock: A Rising Star Lost Too Soon
Matty Lock was a bright young talent who captured the hearts of many as a recurring guest on the popular ITV show *This Morning*. Known for his unique expertise in vacuum cleaners and general mechanics, Matty’s passion turned a childhood hobby into a promising career. However, behind the scenes, Matty was battling challenges that many did not see.
At just 19 years old, Matty tragically took his own life in 2023. His untimely death has left a profound impact on his family, friends, and fans. His mother, Christine Lock, has spoken openly about the struggles Matty faced, revealing that he was diagnosed with ADHD only at the age of 14. This late diagnosis meant that Matty spent much of his childhood and early teenage years without understanding the condition that affected him deeply.
Christine has expressed that Matty “didn’t understand himself,” a sentiment that resonates with many families dealing with undiagnosed neurodevelopmental disorders. The connection between ADHD and addiction is increasingly recognized, and Matty’s use of alcohol and ketamine was reportedly a form of self-medication to cope with his symptoms.
From Childhood Passion to Public Figure
Matty’s fascination with vacuum cleaners began at the tender age of two when he received a toy Henry vacuum. This early interest blossomed into a remarkable collection of over 150 vacuum cleaners by the time he was 13. His enthusiasm and knowledge made him a fan favorite on *This Morning*, where he appeared multiple times alongside hosts Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby.
Beyond his television appearances, Matty was also a Labour councillor and an active campaigner, showing promise as a young political figure. His dedication to his passions and community made his loss all the more devastating.
A Mother’s Plea: The Urgent Need for Better ADHD Screening and Mental Health Support
In the wake of Matty’s death, Christine and her husband Richard have taken a courageous step by establishing the Matthew Lock ADHD Charity. Their mission is clear: to improve awareness, diagnosis, and support for children and young people with ADHD.
One of their primary concerns is the extraordinary waiting times families face when seeking an ADHD diagnosis. Christine and Richard advocate for digital screening tools to be implemented in schools and for enhanced training for general practitioners. They believe these measures could help identify children with ADHD earlier, providing them with the support they need before their mental health deteriorates.
Richard Lock has highlighted the dangers of undiagnosed ADHD, stating, “If such a condition goes undiagnosed, what does that do for the mental state of that person? They’re going to go into a deep spiral.” Their plea has also reached MPs, who are now hearing calls to improve ADHD screening and support services nationwide.
The Wider Context: Suicide and Mental Health in Young People
Matty’s story is a stark reminder of the urgent need to address mental health issues among young people. Suicide remains the leading cause of death for individuals under 35 in the UK, surpassing cancer and road accidents. Every 90 minutes, a life is lost to suicide, affecting people across all walks of life.
Men are statistically three times more likely to take their own lives than women, yet mental health remains a taboo topic, often left unspoken. This silence can prevent those struggling from seeking help.
Organizations such as CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably), Mind, Papyrus, and the Samaritans provide vital support for individuals facing mental health challenges. Raising awareness and encouraging open conversations about mental health can save lives.
Remembering Matty Lock: A Legacy of Passion and Advocacy
The *This Morning* team paid tribute to Matty following his passing, describing him as “a delightful young man” whose “passion for vacuum cleaners and general mechanics was infectious.” His family’s pride in his achievements was evident during his visits to the studio, where they celebrated his ability to turn a childhood interest into a career.
Matty’s legacy lives on through the charity established in his name and the ongoing efforts to improve mental health support for young people. His story serves as a powerful call to action for better understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of ADHD and related mental health conditions.
How You Can Help and Where to Find Support
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, it is crucial to seek help. Early intervention can make a significant difference. Here are some organizations that offer support:
– **CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably):** www.thecalmzone.net | 0800 585 858
– **Heads Together:** www.headstogether.org.uk
– **HUMEN:** www.wearehumen.org
– **Mind:** www.mind.org.uk | 0300 123 3393
– **Papyrus:** www.papyrus-uk.org | 0800 068 41 41
– **Samaritans:** www.samaritans.org | 116 123
Conclusion
Matty Lock’s tragic death at just 19 years old highlights the critical need for improved mental health awareness, early ADHD diagnosis, and accessible support systems for young people. His mother’s heartfelt plea urges society to act now to prevent similar losses in the future. By championing better screening in schools and GP surgeries, we can help children and teenagers understand themselves and receive the care they deserve.
If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t wait—reach out for support today. Together, we can make a difference and save lives.
