LOVE Island star Dr Alex George has revealed he is taking anxiety medication following the tragic death of his teenage brother last year.
The TV star took to Instagram to share an honest and heartfelt post to address the “stigma” of taking medication to help his mental health.
The Love Island star shared a photo of himself holding an anxiety pill in his hand.
“I have been thinking quite hard about whether to post this, but I feel it’s the right thing to do,” Alex wrote alongside the photo.
“So many people live with medication stigma everyday, a fear that they will be judged as being weak or discriminated against, simply for taking a pill to help with their mental health. The other day I did a pole on my stories and 75% of you have faced medication stigma. That is so sad.
“I take medication, alongside therapy and self-care, to help with my anxiety. I really needed this treatment but for years I didn’t access it, on reflection I was worried about what people would think.
“I can tell you now, I am not ashamed. I AM PROUD to take control of my own health. This does not make me weak or less able, it makes me stronger.
“How many people are not getting the treatments they need AND deserve because of this very stigma? This HAS to change. This post is not about saying medication is the ‘answer’ for everyone, rather to say that for those who need it should have access without barriers or shame.”
Dr Alex added: “If you feel you can, join me with #postyourpill to take a stand against medication stigma.”
The post was inundated with supportive comments from fans, with one person writing: “Love this! I felt exactly the same.” Another said: “Well done for being so open & honest it’s inspirational, your amazing.”
“Lead by example, so inspiring,” another person said.
The ITV star’s younger brother Llyr took his own life in July 2020.
He was just 19 when he died and was due to start medical school following in his big brother’s footsteps.
Dr Alex has said his brother had no prior history of a diagnosed mental health condition, and never disclosed how he was feeling to him or other family members
Following his tragic death, Dr Alex was appointed as Youth Mental Health Ambassador by Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
