Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas have split after 13 years of marriage, and Anna Walker, Zeta-Jones’ former maid of honor is speaking out on her best friends mental health instability.

The news of their separation comes only two and a half weeks after Douglas’ latest check-up for throat cancer. Friends and the family of the couple believe that Douglas’ has decided to re-examine his life, and his marriage is one of the things that he knew just was not right anymore.

A source close to the couple told The Daily Mail: ‘He concluded that his marriage was over in all but name and he saw no point in continuing to live a lie. He knows it is incredibly tough on their children, but he has no intention of seeing any less of them. He’s still their father and he’ll continue to play a full part in their lives for as long as he is able. But his marriage had become a cold, dark place and he wanted out so he could find some peace.”

Zeta-Jones’ has been battling a mental disease for years and has discussed openly her life living with bipolar disorder. Walker believes that her friend’s marriage falling apart may push Zeta-Jones over the edge.

“The next few weeks will be very tough and I’m very worried about her,” says Walker. “This is a very traumatic time and mental health could be adversely affected.”

Zeta-Jones recently had in-patient treatment for her disorder in April and now the separation has her friends and family worried that she could sink into a deep depression.

“I’m sure it’s not been easy for her to cope with the stress of Michael’s illness. She’s just had another round of treatment for her bipolar and if she can keep that in check under all this stress it will be a miracle,” said Walker. “Her mother Pat is with her at the moment, so I know she’s in good hands. And nowadays there is very good medication that can help.”

Although it is confirmed that the couple is separated, a decision has not yet been made on whether they will divorce. Douglas’ rep would only say, “Michael and Catherine are taking some time apart to evaluate and work on their marriage.” Walker says that she knows that Zeta-Jones does not want a divorce, and if there is any way to make it work, they will.

“Catherine is very old-fashioned and never wanted to ever go through a divorce,” says Walker. “Her parents have been together for more than 50 years and are her role models. She wanted her marriage to be like theirs.”

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