Dr Alex George Opens Up About Suicidal Thoughts
Warning - This story contains discussion of suicide and suicidal feelings that some readers may find distressing.
Dr Alex George, a former contestant on Love Island, has disclosed that two years ago he experienced such severe mental health challenges that he "wanted to end" his life. He revealed that deciding to go for a run during this crisis "genuinely saved my life." The former A&E doctor, who grew up in Carmarthenshire, explained that after returning from the run, his mood improved enough for him to reach out to a friend for support.
George shared these reflections in a video posted on Instagram as part of Mental Health Awareness Week. His intention was to help reduce the "shame and stigma" surrounding mental health issues, while reassuring his followers that "you are loved."
His openness about mental health is particularly poignant given that his 19-year-old brother Llŷr died by suicide in 2020. George has previously stated that his brother had not informed the family that he was struggling.
Personal Account of a Crisis
In the video posted on Tuesday, George stated:
"I have never shared this story until now.
Two years ago, I sat on these stairs and thought about ending my life. In fact, I wanted to end my life.
I was so agitated that I was scared. I was scaring myself because I felt out of control,"
he said.
He described looking at his dog, Rolo, sitting at the bottom of the stairs, which prompted him to consider his options.
"And I thought 'I have to try and stay' and so I gave myself an option, either I leave now or I go for a run.
And going on that run genuinely saved my life."
George said the run "lifted me just enough" that upon returning, he was able to call a friend and ask for help.
"And that phone call led on to the changes that mean that I'm still sat on these stairs in my flat today.
That is how close it came and the thing I reflect on is that no-one would have had a clue, looking before or even after, the crossroads that I was at,"
he added.
Advocacy and Reducing Stigma
George appeared on Love Island in 2018 before becoming a mental health ambassador for the UK government in 2021.
He emphasised his goal to reduce shame and stigma associated with mental health challenges and to offer hope to those who may feel unseen or isolated.
The 35-year-old said:
"Bad days do come. Some days are really dark, but better days are always on their way.
I want people to know, no matter what, you are deserving of life, you are loved and you should stay."
If you have been affected by the issues raised in this story, details of organisations which can provide help and support are available at BBC Action Line.
