TOWIE star Yazmin Oukhellou has shared a video taken when she was hospitalised in Turkey following the fatal car accident that left her on / off boyfriend Jake McLean dead.
In the video, which Yazmin says was taken "at the lowest I've ever been in my life", she can be seen wiping away tears after the crash which left her with severe injuries after being forced to break her own arm to escape the wreckage.
Alongside the clip, Yazmin wrote a heartfelt caption in which she opened up about her mental health and encouraged her followers to speak out in honour of World Mental Health Day.
The reality star 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. 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. 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."
Yaz continued, "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. 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). MIND: 0300 123 3393.
"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."
Yaz's latest post comes after she returned to Instagram on the day of Jake's funeral in August to pay tribute to him. She wrote, "I have been taking some time away from social media to fully focus on my mental and physical recovery. I needed this time away to work on healing and processing everything as best as I can. This has taught me that life is so short and we must cherish our loved ones as much as possible.
"I am so grateful for our memories and the special time that Jake and I shared. I’ve not stopped thinking about him and I’ll miss him always. He will forever hold a special place in my heart. 🙏🤍👼"
If you want to talk to someone about your mental health you can call Samaritans on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org