Reality television personality Zara McDermott has found herself at the centre of a furious social media storm following controversial comments she made about the accessibility of mental health care.
The former Made in Chelsea and Strictly Come Dancing star is facing intense criticism after a clip from her latest BBC documentary, Zara McDermott: Disordered Eating, went viral for all the wrong reasons.
A 'Tone-Deaf' Suggestion Sparks Outrage
In the controversial segment, McDermott discusses her own mental health struggles before making a startling suggestion. "If you can go private, I would 100% recommend that," she states, before adding that NHS services are "just not enough."
Viewers and mental health advocates were quick to condemn the remarks as profoundly out of touch, highlighting the immense financial privilege required to access private healthcare amidst a severe cost-of-living crisis.
Social Media Erupts in Anger
The backlash was swift and severe across platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram. One furious viewer commented, "Is she for real? Who does she think she is? Most people can barely afford their shopping bill, let alone private therapy."
Another pointed out the cruel irony, stating, "Telling people to just 'go private' on a BBC documentary, a publicly funded broadcaster, is a new level of tone-deaf." Many critics accused the influencer of being completely detached from the economic realities facing millions of Britons.
Navigating the NHS Mental Health Crisis
The incident has inadvertently shone a harsh spotlight on the very real crisis within NHS mental health services. While McDermott's delivery was widely panned, it opened a broader conversation about chronic underfunding and long waiting lists that leave many without vital support.
Critics argued that while her point about service shortages may hold a grain of truth, her solution was not only unhelpful but deeply offensive to those who have no alternative but to rely on the NHS.
As the controversy continues to grow, it remains to be seen if McDermott will issue a public apology or clarification for her divisive and poorly received advice.
