Former Love Island contestant Dr Alex George has opened up about his mental health struggles, sharing a personal story to help reduce the “shame and stigma” around mental health challenges. In a candid video posted on Instagram during Mental Health Awareness Week, George revealed that two years ago he contemplated ending his life but chose to go for a run instead, which he says “genuinely saved” him.
Love Island star shares mental health struggles
Alex George, who appeared on Love Island in 2018 and later became a mental health ambassador for the UK government, described a moment when he felt overwhelmed and out of control. Sitting on the stairs in his flat, he considered suicide but noticed his dog, Rolo, and decided to give himself a choice: to leave or to go for a run. The run lifted his mood enough for him to call a friend and ask for help, which led to changes that have helped him continue living.
“Two years ago, I sat on these stairs and thought about ending my life. In fact, I wanted to end my life,” George said. “I was so agitated that I was scared. I was scaring myself because I felt out of control.”
He added that no one would have known the depth of his struggle just by looking at him before or after that moment. His openness aims to give hope to others facing similar challenges.
Raising awareness and offering hope
George’s brother, Llŷr, died by suicide in 2020, a loss that has deeply affected him. He has spoken about how his brother had not shared his struggles with the family. This personal tragedy has motivated George to speak out about mental health and encourage others to seek help.
In his message to followers, George emphasized the importance of recognizing that bad days happen but better days will come. He said, “I want people to know, no matter what, you are deserving of life, you are loved and you should stay.”
By sharing his experience, George hopes to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and remind people that they are not alone.
If you have been affected by the issues raised in this story, support and help are available through various organizations listed at BBC Action Line.
