Lily AllenLily Allen has reportedly started counselling in an effort to beat depression after her “rocky” start to 2008.

Lily has publicly made light of her troubles so far this year - with jokes about shoe and car shopping - but after suffering a miscarriage and splitting from boyfriend Ed Simons, she has now decided to seek help.

A friend told the Sun recently: “The last couple of months have been really hard for Lily.”

“She was so happy to be pregnant and was willing to give up her showbiz life to settle down and have a family. Her miscarriage was a huge blow and she hasn’t really recovered.”

“She [also] really believed she and Ed were perfect together so she was devastated when they broke up.”

“She has tried to put on a brave face but she found she needed to get some professional help.”

The source added that the singer is “responding well to treatment” but is expected to delay the release of her forthcoming album.