Dr Alex: ‘Mental health is just as important as physical health’
He lost his brother this summer
Since finding fame on Love Island in 2018, Dr Alex George has used his public platform to encourage his followers to seek mental and physical support where needed. But things became tragically personal for the A&E doctor in July, after his younger brother Llyr died following his own mental ill health battle. Now, Dr Alex says he’s more determined than ever to help young people who are vulnerable – which is why he’s launched the Fresher & Healthy campaign with student living specialists Scape. The aim is to provide online support for young people struggling at university.
Speaking to heat, Dr Alex explains, “University can sometimes feel isolating at the best of times, but coronavirus has amplified this for many people. It’s so important that we get the message out there that young people can and should ask for help if they are not feeling well mentally. There is always someone you can speak to.”
Last month, the 30 year old spoke publicly about losing Llyr, saying he had felt “tremendous guilt” at the time. He explained, “I’m the older brother, I’m the doctor. I was supposed to look after him and take care of him.” One month later, it’s clear he’s doing everything possible to help other young people who might also be struggling. “Mental ill health is just as much a disease as any physical condition,” Alex tells us. “When you lose someone you love to that illness, it encourages you to do everything in your power to ensure people see it and treat it in that way.”