Scarlett: ‘I used to phone the Samaritans under a fake name’
The star gets candid about mental health
‘There’s nothing better than a blanket and a box set’
In her new role as an ambassador for the Samaritans, Scarlett Moffatt chats to our Lucie Cave about her own struggles to mark this year’s Mental Health Awareness week…
How has the pandemic affected your mental health? I think, like everyone, I’ve had my good days and bad days. When my boyfriend [Scott Dobinson, a policeman] was at work, I’d be in the house for long periods of time by myself. It’s the feeling of loneliness, it’s hard to get motivated when you’re lonely and you end up going into your own little bubble. How do you manage your mental health? I’ve got a few coping strategies. One of them is to delete anyone who makes you feel rubbish on social media. And just don’t put pressure on yourself. I think a big thing from this lockdown is remembering that, although this is happening, it won’t be forever. Tell us about your role with the Samaritans… I feel like I’ve come full circle, because there was a time when I used to ring the Samaritans quite often – about four years ago – when things really got on top of me and I didn’t know how to cope. I didn’t dare say, “Hello it’s Scarlett Moffatt,” in case they had seen I’m A Celebrity, so I used to give a fake name and, whenever I spoke to them, I would be able to sleep so well that night. They made me feel so much better.
What’s your favourite way to relax? I am a professional couch potato. I do love going for a walk with my dog or boyfriend, but there’s nothing better than getting a big blanket and watching a box set. You posted a lovely message about Scott, recently. Has he made you more confident? Yes, definitely. And without sounding like, “I was saved”, because I hate sounding like a damsel in distress – I think it has helped, finding someone I can trust. Before, I don’t think I went for people with the best intentions, and that affected my mental health. Now I’m with someone who’s just kind, and a lot of my stresses have gone. ■