Catherine Zeta-Jones makes first public outing

Catherine Zeta-Jones has appeared in public for the first time since being treated for bipolar II disorder.

The actress, who is married to Michael Douglas, spent five days at the Silver Hill psychiatric hospital in Connecticut from April 6 for the treatment.

This weekend, she visited a village close to her £5m US holiday home with her seven-year-old daughter Carys. Her parents are thought to have flown to Connecticut to support her.

A local told the News of the World: "Catherine looked in astonishing shape considering she's been through such a tough time.

"Her daughter was clearly delighted to be with her, and was chatting away with her. They looked so happy together. It shows what a strong woman she is.

"People didn't pester her. She looked great - very together and beautiful. No one would have imagined that just a few days ago she was in a treatment centre."

Zeta-Jones has been praised by celebrities including Demi Lovato for seeking help.

Catherine Zeta-Jones treated for bipolar disorder

Catherine Zeta-Jones's representative has revealed that the star sought treatment for bipolar disorder at a health facility.

Bipolar disorder, otherwise known as manic-depressive disorder, brings about unusual changes in mood and energy that can result in manic episodes - an overly excitable state - or depressive episodes - a state of heightened sadness.

A representative for the actress released a statement saying: "After dealing with the stress of the past year, Catherine made the decision to check in to a mental health facility for a brief stay to treat her Bipolar II disorder."

The statement continued: "She's feeling great and looking forward to starting work this week on her two upcoming films."

Bipolar II disorder is not regarded to be as severe as Bipolar I disorder. The actress spent five days in the facility, according to People.

A source close to Zeta-Jones said that the star has had a stressful year, largely due to her husband Michael Douglas being diagnosed with throat cancer.

"Catherine has had to deal with Michael's illness and that's been hard. She went in for a few days because she's about to start working, and wanted to make sure she's in top form, which she is," the insider explained.

Zeta-Jones recently insisted that Douglas is making a speedy recovery following his cancer battle.