Love Island Announces ‘Proactive’ Changes To Show Process Following The Death Of Contestants

ITV bosses have announced that changes will be put in place for this year’s Love Island contestants in an attempt to better care for their mental health.

This comes after the death of 2017 contestant Mike Thalassitis, who died by suicide in March at just 26. Sophie Gradon, who appeared on the 2016 series also died by suicide in June aged 32.

The show has attracted criticism from viewers and contestants for their lack of aftercare for the reality stars.

Dom Lever, who appeared on the same series as Mike, hit out at the show saying: “You get a psychological evaluation before and after you go on the show but hands down once you are done on the show you don’t get any support unless you’re number one.”

As the 5th season of the dating show kicks off on June 3rd, show bossed have announced that there will be measure put in place pre-filming, during the show, and after it ends.

This includes a psychological consultant throughout the process, disclosure of any medial history by contestants, and a welfare team solely decided to contestants.

After the show, ‘islanders’ will also get training on how to deal with social media, and therapy sessions.

Take a look at the full break down below:

Pre-filming and filming

• Thorough pre-filming psychological and medical assessments including assessments by an independent doctor, psychological consultant and discussion with each islander’s own GP to check medical history.
• Potential islanders are required to fully disclose any relevant medical history that would be relevant to their inclusion in the villa and the production’s ability to provide a suitable environment for them.
• Managing cast expectations: detailed explanations both verbally and in writing of the implications, both positive and negative, of taking part in the series are given to potential cast members throughout the casting process and reinforced within the contract so it is clear.
• Cast are told they should consider all the potential implications of taking part in the show and work through this decision-making process in consultation with their family and those closest to them, to ensure they feel it is right for them.
• Senior team on the ground have received training in mental health first aid.
• A welfare team solely dedicated to the Islanders both during the show and after.

Aftercare

• Bespoke training on dealing with social media and advice on finance and adjusting to life back home.
• A minimum of eight therapy sessions will be provided to each islander when they return home.
• Proactive contact with islanders for a period of 14 months up until the end of the next series.
• ITV will also encourage the ‘islanders’ to secure management to represent them after the show should they wish to continue in more reality shows or business deals going forward.

Do you think this is enough to look after the reality stars?

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