Shona McGarty turned down 'Strictly Come Dancing' because of her anxiety.
Shona McGarty
The 'EastEnders' actress - who has played Whitney Dean on the BBC soap since 2008 - has revealed she's been offered a spot on the Latin and ballroom competition in the past, and she's now feels like it could be a way to overcome her fears.
She told Best magazine: "I've always wanted to do it and I was asked a few years ago to go on the show. But my anxiety got the better of me and I thought I would be too nervous to do a live show.
"But now my be a good time for me to conquer my anxiety - just go for it and deal with it when I get there! I love dancing, I love the costumes, and it's such an iconic show."
The 29-year-old star has been open about her battle with anxiety, and she admitted she admitted she never realised "how common it was".
She added: "I never really get the opportunity to talk about anxiety. It has cropped up every now and then for me. I didn't realise how common it was."
She admitted the pandemic and lockdown restrictions have been difficult, and she had "moments of feeling unsure".
She said: "Lockdown was strange for everyone. My parents came over and formed a bubble with me. We played cards, and listened to country music. It was nice.
"It was difficult during lockdown not to be working, I think everyone struggled. I know I had moments of feeling unsure. Not knowing what's happening to the world.
"Mental health is so important to talk about. I'm not ashamed to say I do suffer with anxiety, but I recognise it for what it is now, and have ways to cope.
"I don't let it control my life or stop me from doing what I want to do."
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