Married At First Sight’s Domenica Calarco opens up on her heartbreaking mental health struggle: ‘It was a sadness I’d never felt before’

Married At First Sight's Domenica Calarco opens up on her heartbreaking mental health struggle: 'It was a sadness I'd never felt before'

As a lifestyle expert and someone who has walked a similar path, I can truly appreciate Domenica Calarco’s courage to share her harrowing journey with mental health. Her story is a powerful reminder that no one is immune to the darkness that depression and anxiety can bring. Yet, it also serves as a beacon of hope, showcasing the resilience and strength we all possess when faced with adversity.


Domenica Calarco, a cast member from Married At First Sight, courageously shared her account of spending time at a psychiatric facility.

In a heartfelt interview on Monday’s episode of Today Extra, a 31-year-old ex-makeup artist openly discussed her challenging experience with depression and anxiety.

On Sunday, Domenica shared the extent of her hardship, recounting a point at which she recognized that the assistance from her loved ones was no longer sufficient.

‘It was a moment where I just was in a sadness that I’d never felt before,’ Domenica shared.

Besides ordinary joys such as my pet or savoring my morning coffee, they seemed insignificant in lifting my mood. Instead, I felt an urgent need for a pause or reset, like flipping a switch off and on again.

Calarco admitted she was in such a dark place that she didn’t want to be here anymore.

Reflecting on where she was just four months ago, she expressed disbelief at how far she has come.

Four months ago, I was someone else entirely. Now, I stand here transformed – a testament to personal growth and change.

Married At First Sight's Domenica Calarco opens up on her heartbreaking mental health struggle: 'It was a sadness I'd never felt before'

Married At First Sight's Domenica Calarco opens up on her heartbreaking mental health struggle: 'It was a sadness I'd never felt before'

“It seems I’m still navigating my ongoing struggles with anxiety and depression. It feels like this might be a long-term process for me. Yet, the addition of these new coping strategies to my arsenal has been simply astounding.”

Domenica acknowledged that being under public scrutiny has increased her stress levels, but she’s discovered comfort in the same medium that frequently receives backlash.

She clarified that people tend to make hasty judgments and often suggest that someone should quit social media and avoid being in the public eye.

‘But hang on, this is a career that I’ve chosen and that I really enjoy. And social media has actually been a great part of my healing.’

Married At First Sight's Domenica Calarco opens up on her heartbreaking mental health struggle: 'It was a sadness I'd never felt before'

On Sundays, Domenica disclosed that her group therapy sessions while hospitalized in the psychiatric unit were a pivotal moment for her. Nowadays, she employs her social media outlets as an extended version of group therapy, cultivating a secure environment where her audience can openly discuss their hardships.

She stated, “I’ve created an incredible community over there, which I take great pride in. It showcases the beneficial side of social media, countering its commonly perceived negative image.”

Moving forward, Domenica intends to leverage her influence to bring about change within the mental health sector.

Married At First Sight's Domenica Calarco opens up on her heartbreaking mental health struggle: 'It was a sadness I'd never felt before'

She recognized the good fortune of having private healthcare coverage, as it enabled her to get the treatment she required. However, she voiced worry about those less fortunate who don’t have access to such insurance.

Speaking from experience within a psychiatric facility, I can’t help but feel that Australia could benefit significantly by broadening its understanding and addressing the challenges of mental health. That’s what she expressed.

On Sundays, Domenica discussed the effects of the rising cost of living, pointing out that it worsens mental health issues.

She called for greater focus on equipping people with the tools to help those in need.

‘I really want to partner with a charity… We need to focus on that mental health first aid,’ she urged.

If someone close to you, be it a friend, spouse, or sister, approaches you and claims they are fine, in such a situation, it’s important to understand that if they don’t acknowledge their struggles, we may not have the means to provide appropriate assistance or support. In other words, it becomes challenging to assess and offer help effectively when someone denies facing difficulties.

In her personal path toward recovery, Domenica is dedicated to recounting her experiences with the aim of offering support to others who might be going through similar situations.

Openness and honesty… I understand the impact they have on countless individuals. If by sharing my personal journey, I can assist even a single soul, then I am committed to continuing this practice.

For those struggling with mental health, help is available. You can reach Lifeline on 13 11 14

Read More

2024-09-02 14:19

Previous post LEGO Harry Potter Collection is Coming to Xbox Series X|S in October
Next post Channel 4’s Friday Night Dinner star announces pregnancy