Content warning: The following article discusses mental health which may be triggering for some readers
Married At First Sight star Domenica Calarco has broken her silence following a month-long recess from social media.
In a candid Instagram video, the reality star revealed that four weeks ago she “spiralled into a deep depression”.
“I couldn’t, at the time, see any way out of it,” she said, explaining that she admitted herself into a mental health ward.
Prior to this, Dom “tried to Band-Aid the issue” with a health retreat.
“But my mental health issues were way deeper than that,” she continued. “I was having very dark, intrusive thoughts.”
The time away has been “transformative” for the MAFS star, who has experienced childhood trauma, a divorce in her twenties, and MAFS – the latter of which she described as incredible but traumatic.
“I reached a point where I no longer wanted to suffer with my mental illness – and I was suffering,” she said.
Choosing to share the video on the day of her discharge from the ward, Dom said: “I am happy with the person I am becoming.”
Acknowledging she has a long way to go, Dom revealed that she is gaining a “better understanding” of the person she is and the person she wants to be.
Friends and fans were quick to share their support in the comments section.
I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! winner Skye Wheatley wrote: “So proud of you for doing the work on yourself baby, you deserve the love and to be loved by the person most important – YOU.”
A second commenter added: “Glad to see you back, what incredible strength you’ve shown in your ability to be so vulnerable. Just amazing.”
“So proud,” a third wrote. “Thrilled you are back and feeling strong. You’re so awesome.”
Domenica first hit screens on season nine of MAFS, making headlines due to her feud with fellow contestant Olivia Frazer.
She now hosts the Sit With Us podcast with fellow contestant Ella Ding.
Two months ago, the reality star confirmed she had split from her long-term partner Jack Norris.
“I’ve needed a bit of time off social to work through a break-up,” she said at the time.
“It’s hard to ‘show up’ on social media when my tank is empty. I promise I’ll be back soon, just got to find myself again💔.”
If you or someone you know has been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, help is always available. Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit their website.
