‘Young and the Restless’ Star Melissa Claire Egan Says Chelsea’s Storyline is “One of the Most Humbling and Important Experiences” Of Her Life

The Young and the Restless is in the midst of delivering a powerful storyline surrounding mental health and depression. With Chelsea, played by Melissa Claire Egan, as the focus of the topic, the actress says it has been one of the most “humbling” experiences of her life.

Friday’s (Oct. 28) episode, which warned that viewer discretion is advised as it “contains sensitive and potentially disturbing content for some audiences,” shows Chelsea, who has been dealing with a lot this season, contemplating suicide as she rushes to a rooftop after a distressing time at a club. With voices in her head, she says, “I can’t take it anymore. I just need the pain to go away,” as she looks down over the top of the building and considers jumping off.

During today’s episode, Billy (Jason Thompson) heads out to check on Chelsea, who eventually does attempt to jump off the ledge. However, he is able to save her.

Egan, who first made her appearance as Chelsea in 2011, took to Instagram to open up about the importance of this storyline for her character.

“This storyline has been, and continues to be, one of the most humbling and important experiences of my life,” she wrote. “I’m grateful and honored to be able to tell this story, hopefully in a respectful and responsible way. Mental health is so important and depression is something that affects so many, and does not discriminate. Please know you are loved and not alone.”

The Young and the Restless airs on weekdays at 12:30 p.m. on CBS.

If you or someone you know are experiencing suicidal thoughts, call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 24 hours a day at 988.