Shona McGarty offered viewers one of the most vulnerable moments of this season’s I’m A Celebrity during Tuesday night’s episode (November 18), when she candidly spoke about her long-standing struggle with anxiety. While chatting with campmates Alex Scott and Ruby Wax, the beloved former EastEnders star revealed that she experiences social anxiety—an admission that has prompted her family to share both their concerns and their hopes for her journey in the jungle.

Her honesty comes as she adjusts to the intensity of the series, which psychologist experts have described as “one of the most socially demanding reality formats,” due to the constant group interaction and lack of privacy (Sky News).

Shona McGarty’s Family Speak Out on Lorraine: “It Was a Brave Move”

Appearing on Lorraine the following morning, Shona’s mum Jennifer and sister Camilla spoke warmly—but candidly—about how they felt watching her begin her jungle adventure. When asked whether they had any worries about Shona entering the series, Jennifer admitted that they had mixed emotions, particularly given Shona’s recent split and her well-documented anxiety.

Camilla elaborated that Shona has always been a little more reserved in unfamiliar environments. “She does suffer a little bit with anxiety and she’s a little bit more shy when she meets new people,” she explained. “But once she gets to know everybody and sees who gets her sense of humour and who she naturally gels with, I think she’ll really come out of her shell.”

The family also acknowledged that agreeing to join I’m A Celebrity was “a brave move,” especially for someone who takes a bit longer to warm up to new people. They described Shona as “a slow burner” and someone who is “quite shy,” but they’re excited—and proud—to see her challenge herself in such a public way.

Their message was clear: while Shona lives with social anxiety, it is only one part of who she is, not the whole story. Mental-health charities have echoed this sentiment, noting how important it is for public figures to speak openly about these issues, as it helps reduce the stigma surrounding them (BBC News).

Shona Shares Her Personal Struggle With Ruby Wax and Alex Scott

In camp, the conversation around mental health unfolded naturally when Ruby Wax reflected on her own experiences with depression, something she has discussed extensively in interviews and in her mental-health advocacy work (The Guardian). Shona then opened up about her own challenges, quietly admitting: “I get social anxiety a lot.”

Ruby responded with encouragement, telling her she never would have known had Shona not spoken up—something that seemed to reassure the soap actress. Alex Scott, who has also spoken publicly about her mental-health journey in the past (ITV News), offered additional support, helping Shona feel more at ease during the emotional moment.

Now just a few days into jungle life, Shona is gradually finding her footing and forming early connections with several campmates. Her loved ones hope these new bonds will help her settle in and start feeling truly at home. If her vulnerable conversation this week is any indication, viewers may see Shona’s confidence grow as the days go on—something her family deeply believes she is capable of.