Anxiety and sleep deprivation are all in a day's work

Sweeney's struggle and how he even felt sorry for Humza

- ANDREW QUINN

A LABOUR MSP has revealed that he suffers from sleep deprivation and anxiety due to the stress of the job.

Paul Sweeney says he is "chronically sleep deprived" and regularly struggles with his mental health.

The Scottish Labour mental health spokesperson admitted he is surprised more politicians do not suffer from "severe mental illness" due to the demanding job and the environment in which they operate.

His comments come after SNP MSP Elena Whitham spoke out about her own mental health journey.

The former drugs minister stepped down from that role earlier this year to prioritise treatment for post-traumatic stress.

Sweeney said he finds it difficult to maintain a good work/life balance.

He said: "You get dragged along by events. Self-discipline is a real challenge.