Waterloo Road star Adam Thomas has opened up about seeking therapy to cope with the emotional aftermath of his interactions with David Haye during I'm a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!. The 37-year-old actor described feeling profoundly affected by the experience, which began during filming in South Africa last September and continued after the show aired.

Conflict and Emotional Toll

Thomas detailed what he perceived as a pattern of “mind f***ing” from Haye, 45, stating he felt unable to adequately defend himself within the confines of the jungle environment. He recounted instances of criticism from Haye, including being labeled “useless” for withdrawing from a trial due to his psoriatic arthritis, an autoimmune condition.

Sharing His Struggles

This criticism, combined with subsequent online comments from Haye, deeply impacted Thomas, leading him to seek professional help. He shared his struggles on the At Home With The Thomas Bros podcast, hosted by his brothers Scott and Ryan, openly breaking down in tears as he discussed the situation.

Understanding His Response

Thomas expressed regret for not standing up for himself during the confrontations, describing the experience as feeling like bullying, though he hesitated to use that specific label. He noted a significant shift in his personality, stating he is “not the same person” he was before entering the jungle.

A Breaking Point and Therapy

He questioned how he could allow someone to treat him in that manner and his therapist helped him understand that a lifelong pattern of prioritizing others and neglecting his own needs contributed to his difficulty in asserting himself. He described reaching a “breaking point” and confronting Haye, only to receive a justification of the behavior as a “lesson.”

Apology and Reflection

Despite the initial conflict, Thomas revealed that Haye has since apologized, acknowledging a “heart of gold” beneath the boxer’s tough exterior. However, the initial damage was done, prompting a period of introspection and healing.

Public Reaction and Show Hosts' Concerns

Haye’s actions sparked complaints of bullying from viewers, particularly after he dismissed Thomas’s health concerns and suggested his food portion should be reduced. Even the show’s hosts, Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly, expressed their discomfort with the exchanges during a spin-off series.

The Importance of Mental Health

The situation highlights the intense pressures of reality television and the potential for interpersonal conflicts to have lasting psychological effects. Thomas’s willingness to share his experience and seek therapy serves as a powerful message about the importance of mental health and self-advocacy.