100 Voices: Adam Clayton - on Self-Medication and Breaking the Taboo #NowWereTalking

I began smoking and drinking when I was around 15. Every time I had an uncomfortable feeling or problem, instead of figuring out how to solve it, I'd self-medicate. Cigarettes and beer were how I dealt with that low-level depression you get as a teenager, and which can develop into something darker if not dealt with properly.

I think every addict convinces themselves - and everyone else - that it's going to be different next time. In my own case, I was able to drink in a way that was destructive and detrimental to my health - but I was always able to do the gig. Until I couldn't do the gig.

Around Zoo TV was just a period of confusion for me. I suppose it had started with the success of The Joshua Tree. I was in a successful band with great people whose lives were functional. They were in long-term relationships and raising families. I'd look at them and me and go, "What's the difference here; what's wrong with this picture?" I hated not feeling good enough.

I've worked hard at acquiring the tools to overcome my insecurities and low self-esteem. Unlike 20 years ago, I go to bed now looking forward to the next day. My hope is that we can break any remaining taboo surrounding mental health issues. If people feel they need help, they shouldn't be ashamed to ask for it. Everybody should have free and easy access to mental health treatment.

100 Voices was published in the Hot Press Mental Health Special in conjunction with Lyons Tea and Pieta House as part of the Now We're Talking Campaign. For more please visit hotpress.com/now-were-talking/