Samaritans ambassador Scarlett Moffatt opens up about her struggles with mental health
10th-16th May is Mental Health Awareness Week
Last updated 10th May 2021
TV star Scarlett Moffatt has shared her own experiences and advice on how she copes with her mental health as we recognise Mental Health Awareness Week, from the 10th to 16th May.
The former queen of the I’m A Celebrity jungle has been a TV fan favourite for many years now, since bursting on to our screens on Gogglebox in 2014.
Scarlett is an ambassador for mental health charity Samaritans, who provide support for anyone struggling to cope, 24 hours a day on their dedicated volunteer led helpline.
Speaking to Fleur East, Scarlett described how she had used Samaritans herself in the past. She said: “I rang the Samaritans about five years ago because things got quite on top of me and they were just so helpful."
She added how proud she was to be associated with the charity. "Honestly, I still can’t believe it. I got a little lump in my throat when they told me.
“I am lucky that I have quite a big platform and I could help other people. The thing is, with Samaritans, people assume that it’s a suicide prevention line, which it is, but it is also there if you feel lonely, if you’re worried, if you’re worried about finances, so I think it is such a wonderful charity which helps so many people.
“I messaged them on Instagram and asked if they needed me to post anything or anything I could do and that’s just been going for years. Then they asked if I wanted to be an ambassador and I said yes!”
Scarlett has also been speaking to us about our ongoing campaign, Where's Your Head At?, that aims to make a mental health first aid a legal requirement in the workplace.
Scarlett said, "I think having mental health first aiders in the workplace is such an amazing idea. It's going to break down stigma and help people open up. Sometimes you don’t want to speak to someone who knows you inside out… it is really important to have a trained stranger there to help."
Find out more about Where's Your Head At?
In June 2020, following the first Covid-19 lockdown, mental health charity Mind conducted a survey of 16,000 people and found that ‘more than two thirds of adults with mental health problems reported that their mental health got worse during lockdown.’
Scarlett shared how she continues to cope with the isolation brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic. She said: “I made sure that I kept in touch with people because it’s so easy to be in your own bubble, sitting in your house because you’re on your own. Especially when my boyfriend goes to work!
“I would make a little schedule for myself, get up, get dressed, bit of mascara on, do a TikTok or two. I planned Facetimes and daily walks with my friends and family which was nice. The walks have helped me a lot. I used to get Uber round the corner but now I’m like a rambler, I’m walking for miles!”
Like so many of us, Scarlett has learned a lot over the course of the last year and describes how lockdown has changed her life.
“I learned to appreciate loved ones and to make time for people because that is what has got me through, spending time with loved ones. Try and take time and look after yourself and make sure that you are constantly surrounded by people you love.”
She also offered advice on how to cope if you’re struggling with the pressures of social media.
“I think social media plays a huge part in people’s mental health, because everyone is looking on social media and thinking everyone has got their life together. Side note, we haven’t!
“I know this sounds ridiculous, but delete people that make you feel sad about your life. We don’t have to follow people that make us feel sad, it’s no disrespect to that person. But if someone always looks like they’ve got their life together and that’s a trigger for you, just don’t follow them.”
You can find out more information about the Samaritans via their website. You can also read more about Mental Health Awareness Week and access resources here.
Here are some simple ways to be kind to others:
Say "Hello"
Whether it's to family or your partner as you get home or to people you're speaking to at work (or even online working). Don't just go from task to task. Take the time to greet people.
Say "Please" and "Thank you"
It might sound obvious but when we're busy it's an easy one to forget. We all know how annoying it is when somebody doesn't do this to us, yet it's one of the things we might let slip so easily.
Take the time to listen
We've all done it, we have something to say back and we just can't wait to jump in and have our turn, so much so we end up tuning out of what's just been said. Take the time to listen that bit harder to people who are talking to you.
Turn off lights, water and plugs
This will save resources not just for the planet but for your pocket too!
Take the time to recycle
You can do the bit to help save money and save the planet by taking the time to wash out that jar or plastic container that you've used and send it to somewhere better than the rubbish tip.
Aim to message at least one of your friends every day and ask them how they are.
If you've not spoken to someone for a while, ask if you can give them a call or arrange to see them. Think about all that's happened in your life lately and try and catch up with a friend to find out about their life too.
Take time to reconnect with the older generation
Even if you don't live nearby your older relatives try giving them a video call, phone call, or letter. Of course we're sure they'd love a visit too.
Donate unwanted items or to charity
Cash for Kids supports children and young people affected by poverty, abuse, neglect, life-limiting illness and those who have additional needs. Visit the Cash for Kids website.
If you have items that you know are too good to throw away but that you'll never use, then consider donating them as your old stuff can become someone's new stuff!
We all have a Mental Health
Help us make a difference and commit to doing something kind by adding a pledge to our interactive map. Being kind has other benefits too – not only does it make others feel better, it gives our brains feel good endorphins (sometimes called 'helpers high') so there's no excuse not to #pledgekindness! Pledge your act of kindness here.
Give a gift with no expectation of something in return.
Whether it's your BFF, family, partner or just a friend you want to make feel special, spend some pennies or hand-make a gift for someone you love. Who says presents have to be just for special occasions?
Now read:
Mental health matters: Here's where to get help and advice for you and others