Josie Gibson was close to tears on today's episode of This Morning as she revealed that four of her friends have died since the beginning of the pandemic. The Bristolian TV presenter is currently filling in for Holly Willoughby on the daytime show, and shared some upsetting news during a discussion about the struggle to access mental health services.
Joining Josie and her co-presenter, Phillip Schofield, was Dr Nighat Arif. The family GP was on Wednesday's show to discuss the impact that the coronavirus pandemic has had on the nation's mental health.
During the discussion, Josie became visibly upset when she shared that she has personally been affected by the mental impact of the pandemic. According to The Sun, Josie said: "I personally know four men who took their own lives, and the support was just not there."
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Dr Arif told Phillip and Josie that there has been a huge backlog in processing referrals for people to access mental health treatment. She said that there is 'difficulty when demand is so much', and that she doesn't have the solution for it.
The GP also informed people watching at home on what they can do if they are really suffering. Dr Arif said: "There are so many things that we can do.
"So the first thing I say is talk, talk, talk. Don’t be embarrassed, you can cry, you can be sad, make sure you are going for a walk, getting exercise, seeing green spaces, hugging a tree."
Mum-of-one Josie said that she followed Dr Arif's advice, and revealed to viewers what she did to cope with the stress and trauma of the pandemic. Josie said: "We all get low. Every day I take my shoes and socks off, and I walk outside on the grass because when you're connecting back to the earth, back to nature, you feel good."
Josie first joined the This Morning team as a competition announcer back in 2019. The Bristolian star first appeared on the programme as a presenter towards the end of 2021, whilst filling in for Holly Willoughby last minute, and has proved popular with viewers during her stints on the show since.
If you are struggling with your mental health, the Samaritans are here - day or night, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123, email them at jo@samaritans.org, or visit www.samaritans.org to find your nearest branch.
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