Yazmin Oukhellou has revealed that she has been suffering with nightmares following the car crash in Turkey
(Picture: Jeff Spicer/Getty Images)Yazmin Oukhellou has detailed her mental-health struggles following the fatal crash that killed her on-off boyfriend Jake McLean, 33.
McLean was killed instantly on July 3 when his blue Mercedes E class saloon plunged 70ft off a cliff in Bodrum, Turkey, while the reality star broke her own arm to escape from the wreck.
In light of her recovery, the TOWIE star took to Instagram on Monday to share her story as she marked World Mental Health Day, a day that is dedicated to global mental-health education, awareness, and advocacy against social stigma.
The 29-year-old posted a poignant video from her time in hospital in the wake of her ordeal and described it as the “lowest I’ve ever been in my life” in her lengthy caption.
She explained that the video was taken by her mum, Lisa, who filmed her daily while in hospital, to send to her dad, Hamid, as updates on her recovery.
Oukhellou wrote: “Last week, my mum shared this video with me, which she sent to my dad during my time in hospital as she updated him daily.
“I was unaware it was being taken at the time but am glad I have this to see just how far I’ve come.”
The reality TV star detailed her mental-health struggle following the crash and urged her followers that they can “get through anything”.
She continued: “This was me at the lowest I’ve ever been in my life. Mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and physically.
“I’m sharing this today, not only for World Mental Health Day but to also show you that, with the right help and support, you can and will get through anything.
“Something I’ve struggled with since the accident is people saying they feel bad sharing their problems with me as they seem small or silly in comparison.
“But, no matter how big or small something is, if it bothers you or makes you upset, it’s a problem and it is important.”
Although she experienced some “really awful days” following the crash, the star remains positive and asked her followers to be “a bit kinder”.
The TV personality added: “I want to encourage you all to talk more. Journal more. Share your feelings & MOST importantly when you feel this way take a moment to just BREATHE.
“Trust me it helps. I want you to live each day as positively as you can & appreciate the little things.
“Since the accident I have some really awful days but I try to put a brave face on and post something positive. On my worst days you simply won’t hear from me at all.
“But World Mental Health Day has got me thinking that maybe I should be more real on here and share those times too which is why I have shared this today.
“I had days where I didn’t think I’d ever feel normal again. We all struggle at some point in our lives and we can all help each other a little more. Let’s be a bit kinder.”
The ITVBe star also asked her followers to seek help if they’re struggling and credited therapy for “changing her life”.
She shared: “So today I want you to take a few minutes and think about YOU and your mental health. Ask yourself am I okay? Really? If the answer is no or if there’s even a slight hesitance, I’d encourage you to speak to someone (a medical professional, family, friend or helpline).
“I have therapy once a week now with an amazing lady called Sandra. She has truly changed my life.
“I’m so proud of how far I’ve come and you all should be too. If your going through something awful right now just know you are loved and it won’t last forever. Love Yaz #worldmentalhealthday”. [sic]
