Former Big Brother Naija housemate Erica Nlewedim has revealed that she began therapy in 2024 after suffering sustained online abuse for three years following her time on the reality show. Speaking to media personality Toke Makinwa, the actress detailed the emotional toll of the backlash and firmly ruled out ever participating in the show again, despite the financial gains it brought.
Three Years of Insults and the Decision to Seek Help
Erica explained that the criticism she faced did not stop when she left the BBNaija house. She described enduring roughly three years of relentless online insults, which gradually eroded her emotional resilience. The pressure became so overwhelming that she eventually sought professional mental health support in 2024.
She stated: "I'll never go to a show like Big Brother Naija again in my life. I'm happy I did it because, of course, it changed my life money-wise, but I'm never doing it again if I'm given the opportunity. I was getting like 3 years of back-to-back insults. I had to see a therapist because of that show."
No Return to BBNaija Despite Financial Gains
While acknowledging that the show opened up financial opportunities, Erica was resolute that the personal cost was too high to consider a return. She described her decision as absolute, stating that no amount of incentive would change her mind.
The interview, which was shared on social media, sparked reactions from fans. One user, @umuojime, commented: "Mental health after reality TV is no joke. And she is one of the FEW BBN 9ja housemate that has oil on her head, others I don't know whether na ashawo dey use their own popularity dey do. I’m glad she got the help she needed to heal." Another user, @PaulAgono, noted: "She had to see a therapist because of what she become in that house and the toxic traits she had that she didn't know of. But they are clowns who love her bad character."
Erica's Connection with Fans
In a separate incident, Erica engaged with a fan on X who pleaded for her Van Cleef bracelet. The fan offered retweets in exchange, but Erica instead agreed to send money, a gesture that drew praise for her generosity. That interaction highlighted her connection with fans and her approachable demeanor.
The revelations from the interview underscore the long-term mental health challenges that reality TV participants can face. Erica's decision to seek therapy reflects a growing awareness of the need for professional support in the entertainment industry.
