Scarlett Moffatt has spoken about having experienced loneliness during the Covid pandemic, with her opening up about it ahead of Mental Health Week in the coming days.
The presenter, 31, who is an ambassador for Samaritans, has discussed her own experience with the impact of lockdown and encouraged others to seek support if they need it.
The Gogglebox alum commented: "It can feel like there is a negative stigma around admitting you're lonely, but it's something most people will have experienced."
She said the pandemic proved particularly tough for many people, revealing that she contacted the mental health charity herself at one point when she needed support.
Scarlett said: "The pandemic was particularly tough for a lot of people. I rang Samaritans for support and would urge anyone else struggling to do so, too. It really helped."
She recalled having experienced feelings of guilt when she felt lonely during the pandemic because she thought people would think she had no reason to feel lonely.
It's understood that after reaching her lowest point, she contacted the charity, using a fake name, with it later prompting the presenter to seek help from her GP.
The I'm a Celebrity winner further commented recently: "Talking to someone who didn't know me, or judge me, really helped when I wanted to talk about how I was feeling."
Scarlett opened up about her experience ahead of Mental Health Awareness Week, which runs from May 9 to 15. It's understood to this year be focused on loneliness.
According to data released by Samaritans, there has been a 22 percent rise in the number of calls to the charity regarding loneliness since the start of the pandemic.
Advice issued by the charity encourages people to take things at their own pace and to talk to others if you aren't feeling okay, with it reminding that you aren't alone.
It states: "Whatever you are feeling is OK. There is no right or wrong way to react. It's natural that these uncertain and challenging times are continuing to affect people."
"It's important to be kind to yourself and take things at your own pace. We've all faced challenges over the past two years and it's OK if you still need time to readjust," it adds.
The charity however encourages people to reach out to others, saying: "If you're finding things tough, try to talk about how you are feeling with others. You're not alone."
If you're struggling and need to talk, the Samaritans operate a free helpline open 24/7 on 116 123. Or you can email jo@samaritans.org or visit their site to find your local branch.
