Jesy Nelson Survived Overdose in Her Final Days with Little Mix
Jesy Nelson has bravely opened up about her struggles with mental health leading up to her departure from Little Mix in late 2020. In her new Prime Video series, *Life After Little Mix*, she shares her harrowing experiences, including an overdose that nearly took her life.
Overdose and Hospitalization
At 34 years old, Jesy faced a severe mental health crisis just before leaving Little Mix. After experiencing an overdose, she was rushed to the hospital, thanks to her concerned mother, Janice, who sensed something was seriously wrong. Janice’s quick actions prevented a potential tragedy as she noticed Jesy was not responding to calls and spoke sluggishly when she finally answered.
Struggles During Little Mix
Throughout her time with the band, Jesy’s mental health deteriorated. She described feeling broken, overwhelmed by the pressures of fame. In her conversations with her bandmates—Leigh-Anne Pinnock, Perrie Edwards, and Jade Thirlwall—she felt that they did not fully understand her struggle, which left her feeling isolated and unsupported.
Pressure and Anxiety
- Jesy experienced anxiety and panic attacks, exacerbated by external pressures.
- She struggled with feelings of inadequacy, particularly regarding her appearance.
- Lockdown provided temporary relief, but once it ended, old issues resurfaced.
According to Jesy, during one pivotal meeting, she expressed her feelings of despair, only to be met with indifference. “I just felt like no one cared,” she lamented.
Significant Events Leading to Departure
Her departure from the band was not sudden; she indicated that another member had also considered leaving. However, a planned farewell tour was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, creating further emotional turmoil.
After missing important events, such as *The Search* finale and the MTV European Music Awards, Jesy announced her decision to take an “extended” break for “private medical reasons.” This was followed by her public statement in December, confirming her exit from Little Mix, attributing it to the impact on her mental health.
Band’s Support and Future Directions
Following Jesy’s exit, her bandmates expressed their sadness but emphasized their support for her decision. They noted the importance of prioritizing mental health, stating, “We love her very much and agree that it is so important that she does what is right for her mental health and well-being.”
Since leaving Little Mix, Jesy has ventured into solo projects, steadily working on her mental health while advocating for issues such as spinal muscular atrophy. In the wake of her powerful revelations, she hopes to raise awareness and inspire others struggling with similar challenges.
Jesy Nelson’s documentary series, *Life After Little Mix*, sheds light on her journey, serving as both a personal narrative and a broader commentary on the challenges of fame and mental health. It is available for viewing on Prime Video.
Support Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, resources are available. The Samaritans provide a free helpline open 24/7 at 116 123, offering confidential support to anyone in distress.
