Darts pushed my bipolar disorder over the edge - James Wade

James Wade says being one of the best darts players in the world was responsible for pushing him over the edge in his battle with bipolar disorder.

The 39-year-old was diagnosed with the mental health condition in 2009 just as he had made his way to the top of the sport, having won a raft of major tournaments in the previous two years.

But the pressure to deliver alongside the fame and money affected Wade and eventually led him to get help after years of suffering.

"Before it all came to a head, in 2007 and 2008, I was probably the best player in the world for those two years consistently," he said, in his role as an ambassador for Bipolar UK.

"I think that darts really pushed me over the edge in my problems.

"It has given me so much but it has taken just as much as it has given me.

"The pressure of having to perform, and being recognised and earning good money, that is what pushed me over the edge.

"The job I do puts me under unnecessary pressure a lot that just rocks the boat a little bit too much."

Despite his condition, which he suffered with long before his diagnosis at the age of 26, Wade has been an enduring presence at the top end of the men's game, winning 11 major titles, including the World Matchplay and the Premier League.

But he has mixed feelings about his career so far.

"I believe there are not many people with what I have that could do what I have done. It has been challenging," he added.

"But I always think I have let myself down because I haven’t done enough. If I could have dedicated myself more in my career I could have done more.

"I haven’t finished yet but I always feel like there is more. I know I haven’t dedicated myself enough because it can become too much for me."

The illness is characterised by severe mood