ex-Thy Art Is Murder drummer Lee Stanton breaks silence

"First off, I'd like to apologise for my absence in person and online as you may have noticed I haven't been touring with TAIM for over a year now. Early last year I started noticing a shift in my state of mind which eventually resulted in me having a breakdown. As much as I would love to still be up there ripping gigs with the boys it is in my best interest mentally and physically to step back from everything and continue putting in work to get back to being 100%. "I can't thank Sean, Kevin, Marshy and CJ enough for being extremely patient and very understanding during this whole process. My wife, family, friends and our fans who've reached out, checked in, gave me someone to speak to or offered advice and help, it really does mean a lot. It wasn't easy coming to terms with what happened, and having to walk away from something you invested a large portion of your life into building, but I have lots of positives to take away with me. "I've built a lot of great relationships with people; I've been able to see the world and connect with people through music which couldn't have happened if not for touring. I don't want this to come across negative, I am in a much better headspace than before. I just wanted to let people know what's been up and that if you do notice that something isn't right within yourself or someone you know, don't be afraid to have a conversation or to seek professional help. "Be honest and kinder to yourself and those around you, your body and mind will be grateful for it."