Writing in the Daily Telegraph Mr Johnson said: “In Churchill’s case that meant the almost superhuman production of books, speeches and articles. He wrote more words than Dickens and Shakespeare combined, and that is before we have even considered his epic memoranda, or the industriousness of his oil painting.” Mr Johnson added: “It was with work that he pitchforked off his depression and what was true for Churchill is basically true for all of us.”

Mr Johnson asserted that to a very large extent we derive our self-esteem from what we do.

He added: “It is often from our jobs from being engrossed in our daily tasks that we get that all-important sense of satisfaction.”

The former Foreign Secretary was keen to point out how some jobs are tedious, laborious and cause stress.

He said: “Yes, it is work that sometimes stresses us out, and work that causes anxiety, but it is also work that can absorb us and take us out of ourselves until the clouds have gone.

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“If work is the cause, it is also part of the cure.

“So if anyone faces prolonged stress or depression, or mental illness of any kind, it will in general be far better if they can get the treatment they need without necessarily being forced to leave their job, and thereby giving up not only their livelihood but also that vital psychological support.”

The Tory leadership hopeful suggested the UK is making huge progress in tackling and demystifying the problems of mental health.

He stressed that taboos and stigmas surrounding poor mental health are being lifted.

Mr Johnson said: “Discussions are being held with a frankness that would not have been possible 20 or 30 years ago.”

He added: ”We grasp the crucial importance of sport, and physical exercise.”

The Tory backbencher had positive news referring to the latest statistics that “the rate of male suicide is now down to 15 per 100,000, the lowest since records began in 1981 and that female suicides are down to about five per 100,000″.

Mr Johnson stated the UK “can chase away those Black Dogs, boost the economy and save money, all at once”.

For confidential support call the Samaritans in the UK on 116 123 or visit a local Samaritans branch.

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