She started the show with a bang, landing the first single date of the series, but since then it’s been noticeable that Shannon has flown under the radar on The Bachelor Australia.
Now, the 25-year-old explains why.
“If I’m being honest, I was struggling with depression in the house,” the car-care consultant tells TV WEEK.
“I had quite a bit of anxiety. I found it difficult, and the more it went on and the closer I got to the girls, the behaviour in the house got more intense, so I became more anxious.”
Shannon reveals that the nature of the The Bachelor Australia made her feel insecure.
The quarrels between the women took a toll too.
“The fighting had a bad mental effect on me,” Shannon says.
“I have a peaceful life outside the mansion. I’m not used to anything that affects my mindset so much.”
Searching for a way to deal with her battle, Shannon says she started writing, but at times it would have the opposite effect.
“I write a lot, so I turned to that during the tough times,” she explains.
“But I ended up isolating myself in a way, which wasn’t great either.”
Shannon says she felt intimidated by her fellow contestants.
To make matters worse, Shannon says the nature of The Bachelor Australia also made her feel insecure.
“It’s difficult when you’re surrounded by beautiful women who are also your friends – it dents the confidence a bit,” she says.
“Everyone has their up and down days, but the situation in the house is extreme, so everything is amplified. But I learnt more about myself than ever.”
In a statement to TV WEEK, Warner Bros, the production company behind The Bachelor Australia, said all contestants are offered assistance throughout the show.
“Participants have access to an open line of discussion with a psychologist at any time they choose before, during and in the months after production,” the statement read.
Lifeline offers crisis support on 13 11 14, lifeline.org.au; or visit headspace.org.au
Want to read more about your favourite reality series’? Pick up a copy of this week’s issue of TV WEEK. On sale now!
