“The Bachelorette” contestant Logan Palmer penned a candid message about his mental health after his abrupt exit in Monday’s episode.
The San Diego native, 26, shared on Instagram that he has “struggled” with his well-being since the age of 12 and found the process of competing on a reality TV show “more difficult” than he “ever thought possible.”
“Destructive thoughts and constant doubt are hurdles that I think everyone relates to at some point but not everyone talks about,” he wrote. “I want to be transparent about that part of my journey too, and I hope I can be a safe place for others who struggle with it. Acknowledging my mental health and how it affects those around me will be a priority in my life moving forward.”
Palmer admitted that his time on the ABC series “wasn’t all roses” but assured viewers that he was “grateful” for the opportunity.
“I figured it was something new, it was an adventure. But I came out the other side with much more than an experience. I came out of this with real feelings, strong emotions, lessons learned, and a lot to be grateful for,” he explained.
The videographer also apologized to “Bachelorette” Rachel Recchia in his post after choosing to pursue her co-lead, Gabby Windey, prior to his early departure.
“I’m sorry that I added more difficulty to an already challenging journey. That was never my intention, but it was inspiring how strong you were through it all,” he wrote.
Palmer then acknowledged that the “stars didn’t quite align” for him and Windey in the end, but he thanked her for making him a “better person.”
“Watching myself on Monday nights gave me a different perspective,” he wrote. “I will always be someone who will steer with their heart whether it is popular or not. But in the future, I want to lead with intention and pursue with purpose. I am ready to bring those lessons back into to my life.”
Palmer quietly left the show ahead of hometown dates, with host Jesse Palmer telling Windey, 31, that her contestant had tested positive for COVID-19.
The diagnosis led to the cancellation of that evening’s cocktail party, which Jesse vaguely blamed on “a situation with Logan” during a conversation with the other men vying for Windey’s heart.
By the end of the episode, however, Windey announced, “Logan can’t be joining us for the rest of our journey,” signaling that he had chosen to eliminate himself.
“The Bachelorette” airs Mondays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.
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