Years of BBNaija Insults Took a Toll on My Mental Health - Erica

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Former Big Brother Naija housemate Erica Nlewedim has opened up about the emotional difficulties she experienced following her participation in the reality television show, revealing that she eventually sought professional therapy.

Erica shared the revelation during an interview with media personality Toke Makinwa, where she reflected on the lasting impact of her time on BBNaija and the public reaction to events surrounding her participation.

According to the actress and entrepreneur, the criticism she received did not end when she left the show. She said she faced several years of repeated insults, particularly online, and described the experience as traumatic.

Erica disclosed that the prolonged negativity eventually affected her mental health to the point where she needed professional support. 

She said she sought therapy in 2024 after dealing with the consequences of her reality TV experience for years.

Despite the difficulties, Erica acknowledged that appearing on BBNaija significantly changed her life financially. However, she made it clear that she would not consider returning to the reality show if given another opportunity.

Erica was among the contestants on the fifth season of Big Brother Naija, which was themed Lockdown and premiered in July 2020. 

Her journey on the programme ended controversially when she was disqualified on September 6, 2020, after receiving her third strike for violating house rules.

Her disqualification followed a heated confrontation involving fellow housemate Laycon, alongside other incidents during her time in the house. Laycon eventually won the season.

The emotional effects of the experience continued to feature in Erica’s reflections after the programme. In 2021, she spoke about concentrating on her career and personal goals as she attempted to move forward from the controversy.

Since leaving BBNaija, Erica has remained active in entertainment and business. She has continued acting while also developing interests outside the industry, including skincare.

Her latest disclosure offers further insight into the less visible consequences of reality television fame, particularly the pressure that can come from sustained public criticism and online commentary.

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