NADIA WHITTOME has been praised for her bravery and openness after revealing she needs time off work because she is suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). 

Britain’s youngest MP said she has been advised by her doctor to take several weeks off work in order for her condition to improve.

In a statement on Tuesday, the 24-year-old said she has been battling “some persistent health issues” over recent months and can no longer manage them alongside her work. 

“I feel it is important for me to be honest that it is mental ill health I am suffering from — specifically PTSD,” she said. 

“Through being open about my own mental health struggle, I hope that others will also feel able to talk about theirs and that I can play a small role in creating greater acceptance and facilitating healthier discussions around this issue.”

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said he respected Ms Whittome’s bravery in speaking openly about her mental health. 

Former party leader Jeremy Corbyn said he was proud of the MP, who he described as a “bold and young woman in politics.

“By being honest about looking after her mental health, she helps all those who are struggling. As a former care worker [and] hate crime specialist she has experienced so much.”

Leading mental health charity Rethink Mental Illness welcomed the MP’s openness on her diagnosis. 

The charity’s Mark Winstanley said: “Being signed off from work for poor mental health is not a sign of weakness but a recognition that wellbeing should always be a priority.”