Dr Alex George warns men not to dismiss fat-shaming as 'lads' banter'
Dr Alex George has encouraged men to speak out against fat-shaming after being targeted himself by trolls online.
The TV GP and former Love Island star is now an ambassador for mental health with 10 Downing Street and in a new post online said that it’s all too easy for men to dismiss targeted comments about their weight as ‘lads banter’.
In a new Instagram post, Dr Alex shared a comment from his latest YouTube video, in which someone commented on him being “top heavy” and questioning whether he’s put weight on.
Alongside it, he wrote: “I never usually give a moments notice to negativity, but this one made me stop and think.
“Fat shaming towards men is something that’s often brushed aside as a joke or ‘lads banter’. It really isn’t. The impact that it can have on a person’s mental health can be devastating.
Read more: Dr Alex George: Hardest part of brother's death was not having chance to help
“Commenting on someone’s weight, whether you think you are being constructive or even complimentary, perpetuates the cycle of weight stigma and unhealthy relationships with our bodies.”
“No one has the right to comment on your size,” he concluded. “No one.”
The video in question had nothing to do with weight either, instead it was a tour around the star’s new office which is currently being decorated.
Dr Alex has become an advocate for mental health awareness — and in particular male mental health — since his time on Love Island.
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This was further cemented by his 19-year-old brother Llŷr’s death by suicide in 2020.
Since opening up about his own mental health struggles, the medical expert has been using his platform to encourage others to speak out, working closely with charities including Samaritans.
Speaking to Ranvir Singh on Lorraine in July, Dr Alex said: “There have been moments in this last year when I’ve really struggled. I’m happy to say that. We need those people around us to support us.
"There have been times when I’ve had to say ‘I’m finding it really tough right now.’
“Resilience is being able to bend and flex, by bringing people into help you and pick yourself up again.”
For confidential emotional support at times of distress, contact The Samaritans at any time by calling 116 123 or emailing jo@samaritans.org.
Watch: Dr Alex George Interview in Up Close And Socially Distant
