The following article contains discussion of sexual abuse and suicide that some readers may find upsetting.
EastEnders spoilers follow.
Mick Carter will consider making a hasty exit from Albert Square after Christmas in EastEnders.
As he continues to be manipulated by his childhood abuser Katy Lewis, Mick has also faced a crisis in his marriage as wife Linda has begun an affair with Max Branning.
Tina Carter is facing an attempted murder charge as well, after being stitched up for Ian Beale's attack by her own attorney Gray Atkins.
Her fortunes will only get worse after Christmas when Gray reveals that the witness who spotted her at the Vic has given testimony that checks out – with Tina having no clue her lawyer has paid off the witness.
Gray encourages Tina not to give a new statement to the police, while Shirley Carter insists that Tina has no other alternative than to run away.
Mick finally springs into action by insisting that he will leave with Tina, should she have to go. Tensions still run high within the family, as Shirley tells Mick she doesn't regret a Christmas outburst.
Shirley rails against Linda, insisting Mick has given up too much for his wife only for her to run to Max Branning's waiting arms at the first sign of trouble.
It finally seems like Shirley is making progress with her son, though Mick still hasn't opened up about what he experienced with Katy as a child.
Viewers know that Mick will be at the centre of a gripping New Year's Eve episode that will see him contemplating suicide.
EastEnders is set to air these scenes on Boxing Day at 8.45pm and Monday, December 28 at 8.35pm on BBC One.
We would encourage anyone who identifies with the topics raised in this article to reach out. Organisations who can offer support include Samaritans on 116 123 (www.samaritans.org) or Mind on 0300 123 3393 (www.mind.org.uk). Readers in the US are encouraged to visit mentalhealth.gov or the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
Rape Crisis England and Wales works towards the elimination of all forms of sexual violence and sexual misconduct. If you’ve been affected by the issues raised in this story, you can access more information on their website or by calling the National Rape Crisis Helpline on 0808 802 9999. Rape Crisis Scotland’s helpline number is 08088 01 03 02.
Readers in the US are encouraged to contact RAINN, or the National Sexual Assault Hotline on 800-656-4673.
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