Sam Thompson has opened up about his mental health journey, praising his therapist and emphasising the importance of normalising conversations around emotional well-being. The 33-year-old former Made In Chelsea star, who now presents on Hits Radio, revealed that therapy has helped him avoid internalising his emotions and navigate challenging times.
Normalising Mental Health Conversations
Thompson stressed that discussing mental health should not be limited to therapy sessions. He told the Mirror: "I think it's just normalising those sorts of conversations. I actually think you don't always need to see a therapist - sometimes you just need to see a friend, or a family member, or a colleague. Talking is the therapy, not so much the therapist."
He added: "The speaking, for me personally, is what does it. Getting it out of me, I come to the conclusion without my therapist. They're just amazing listeners, and they sort of guide you to your own decisions."
Thompson also relies on his sister Louise, who lives next door, for support. "She's always on hand to offer a listening ear when I need it," he said.
A 'Savage' Therapist
The TV personality joked about his therapist's direct approach: "She's amazing, she's a savage – she'll turn around and tell me everything that's wrong! She's just like, 'You're wrong there,' I sometimes need that because I'm like, 'No, I'm right!'"
Turning Down Work for Family
Thompson, known for saying yes to almost every opportunity, has decided to prioritise his personal life. He explained: "My New Year's resolution was to spend more time with my family because I didn't spend much time with them last year because I was just so busy, and the year before that. As well as taking all the amazing opportunities I'm lucky enough to get, [my resolution] is to actually say no more."
He added: "I'm a 'Yes' man, and I say yes to everything and I want to say 'No' more, so everything now, starts with no – it's a flat no, unless it's something I would actually like to do, then it becomes a maybe."
One project he eagerly accepted was Celebrity Sabotage, which he described as a "great show". He also hinted at another television project later this year and a mini podcast tour with his best friend Pete Wicks.
Love for Radio and Connection
Despite interviewing stars like Brad Pitt and Tom Hiddleston, Thompson values the connection with his listeners above all. He said: "I don't do radio for any other reason. The only reason I do radio is because it gets me in touch with people faster than anything else I do. It gets me talking to people faster than TV, faster than podcasting, you are live talking to them immediately, and they can respond to you immediately by texting in and calling in, and I love that."
Soccer Aid and Charity Work
Thompson is set to return to Soccer Aid for UNICEF for the third time, an experience he calls a "dream come true". He recalled: "Two years ago, I got asked, and then I thought, 'That is probably the only time I'll get asked, I'm grateful,' but this is my third time, I can't believe it."
Last year, he raised £1.5 million by completing a 260-mile endurance challenge across the country, despite tearing his calf. He described it as "the proudest moment of my life". He said: "When I tore the calf, I thought I'd let everyone down. Being able to finish that, everyone rallying around, Pete coming, Ryan my brother-in-law and Tony Bellew, it was so beautiful."
Thompson visited Guatemala as part of his work with UNICEF, meeting children who benefit from the funds raised. He shared: "The conditions are really tough, but you see the hope in these kids' eyes and the brightness in their future, it's awe-inspiring. You leave with your cup so much fuller than when you got there."
Soccer Aid for UNICEF takes place on Sunday, 31st May at the London Stadium. Adult tickets start from £20 and juniors from £10.
