Trigger Warning: This post deals with depression and drug use.
A former Big Brother housemate has survived a drug overdose.
Ben Zabel, who was on the show in 2013, had to be treated by Brisbane paramedics on Saturday evening when they were called to his house after he took too many prescription drugs.
He stayed overnight, and has been recovering at home since.
This is what Ben posted on Instagram:
Ben’s publicist released the following statement:
“On Saturday evening Ben Zabel suffered a drug overdose. He was treated by paramedics on the scene in his apartment and was later transported to The Royal Brisbane Hospital for further treatment. Ben was released from hospital late yesterday afternoon and asks for privacy at this time.”
Ben, 32, has spoken out about struggles with depression in the past. Since his Big Brother experience, he has worked as a comedian and a TV presenter.
We wish Ben all the best with his recovery.
If you need help with anxiety or depression, please contact Beyond Blue, Ph: 1300 22 46 36 or Lifeline, Ph: 13 11 14.
Top Comments
Ben, some of the people writing on here are truly nasty for questioning intentions about putting a photo on Instagram!!!
You are one of the lovliest, sweetest souls i've seen on that show.... and ever for that matter! Please recover soon! For every 1 person that says these mean things, theres 200 more who love you for who you are! :D
Not sure about this. Someone close to me attempted suicide and was admitted to the psych ward as an involuntary patient.For at least a week. The doctor said it was a serious attempt. Also in Brisbane.
This comes across as attention seeking, which being a contestant on Big Brother might confirm?
I tried the same as Ben and they sent me home the same day. They take it case by case.
If you watched Ben in the BB house then you'll know the last thing he wanted was attention.
hmm well posting a pic of your hospital id band screams attention seeking to me.
(and the sentence that includes "if you watched Ben in the BB house" and "you'll know the last thing he wanted was attention" is a class A oxymoron....)