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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Alan Johnson

Love Island's Jacques O'Neill thanks fans for 'love and support' in social media return

Love Island contestant Jacques O'Neill has thanked his followers for their 'love and support' on his return to social media.

The 23-year old, who quit playing for Rugby League side Castleford Tigers in order to appear on the show, took to Twitter telling fans he'd be 'in a darker place' without them.

Jacques shocked viewers earlier this month by quitting the villa, citing mental health reasons after clashing with rival Adam Collard over partner Paige Thorne.

On his departure the reality star said he "massively underestimated" the impact the show would have on him mentally, after his family revealed he had ADHD while on the show. "The last two weeks was definitely the worst I’ve ever felt in my life," he said.

Jacques O'Neill has spoken out to thank fans for their support (SplashNews.com)
Love Islander Jacques said he was in 'a better place mentally' (SplashNews.com)

He added: "I was finding myself feeling worse and worse every day. And if I didn't leave when I did, I was scared I would never have got back to my normal self."

Jacques, who had hoped to hook up with Paige on the ITV2 show's conclusion, shared a snap in Instagram of himself looking much more relaxed on Saturday night.

Captioning the image, he wrote: "I just want you all to know that I'm in such a better place mentally.

"A huge reason for that is because of all the love and support I have received! I'd be in a much darker place if it wasn’t for all of your kind words, so thank you again I appreciate it so much."

Fans were quick to express their delight that he was feeling better, with one writing: "I'm glad you are in a better place mentally Jacques, you deserve to be better mentally, much love."

Another commented: "Listen Jacques you know who your real supporters are and no matter what we will be there to support. Be yourself and just enjoy every moment! You were my favourite person in the villa/you still are!"

A third replied: "Keep your head up bro. You've done something most couldn't! You've gave confidence in those struggling to speak up. Be proud brother."

Jacques shared no hard feelings as his former partner Paige moved on (ITV)

And a fourth added: "That's all that matters Jacques, whatever you do in the future, be happy! Lots of love and support around you, and enough inspirational people to look to in life. You're young, healthy and will have options, its just which options are right for you. Tigers family with you."

The club Jacques left behind, meanwhile, have offered him their backing amid his struggles.

"Castleford Tigers’ primary focus with Jacques at this stage will be to support him," they said.

The club's coach, Lee Radford, also said they would be there to help Jacques deal with his problems and added his teammates were really pleased to see him recently.

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