Ella Morgan, the first trans bride to appear on Married At First Sight, fought back tears as she spoke about one of the "hardest years" of her life and revealed she had relapsed into an eating disorder.
The 32-year-old reality star, who appeared on MAFS in 2023 and "married" JJ Slater, took to social media after a lengthy absence to address her struggles with fame. In a video posted to Instagram, she said she had been dealing with anxiety, depression and bulimia.
Relapse and mental health struggles
Speaking candidly, Ella said: "This year, without doubt, has probably been one of the hardest years of my life mentally. A lot of things have contributed to that, but I'm not ready to go into every single detail yet. One of the biggest things I have been dealing with is my mental health, anxiety, depression and bulimia. I relapsed with my bulimia earlier this year, and it's something I have struggled with for a huge part of my life."
She added: "I think for a long time I felt I had to hide things like that and talking about mental health because online it can look like I have this glamorous life, and yes I'm incredibly grateful for so many things that have happened to me."
Fame and caring for her nan
The former Celebs Go Dating star, who will appear on the upcoming series of Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins, also shared that she is a carer for her 93-year-old nan. She said she had turned down work this year to put her nan first and was now prioritising her own mental health.
"My light has been dimmed," she said. "I've dealt with intense periods of anxiety and had major imposter syndrome. I've been trying to navigate all of this whilst being in the public eye and on top of that I'm a carer for my nan. My nan is 93. This year, I've had to turn down work and take a step back and put her first. I'm putting my own mental health first too."
Support from fans and stars
Ella said she had taken a "huge step back" and that from the outside it looked like she had disappeared, but she had been "trying to put myself back together". She reflected on how her life had changed drastically since entering the public eye, saying people do not understand how difficult it is to be constantly visible, be a trans advocate and a role model while working out who she is.
Fans offered support in the comments, with one writing: "Massive hugs coming your way!! One day at a time and when that feels like too much, take it an hour at a time xx" Another said: "You're amazing, but even amazing people need to put themselves first xx wishing you so much love and hope you start to see the sunny days soon, even if the rain puts some rainbows in the way xx you are a queen, just straighten that crown xxxxx" Former Love Island star Georgia Harrison also sent love, writing: "You're a light whenever I see you xxxxx Sending you so much love, Ella xxxx we love you."
For support with eating disorders, SEED can be contacted on 01482 718130. The Samaritans operate a free 24/7 helpline on 116 123.
