Reality TV star Erica Nlewedim has opened up about the emotional impact of her time on Big Brother Naija (BBNaija), saying the experience was difficult enough to lead her to seek therapy.
Speaking during an interview on Toke Moment, Erica said that although the show changed her life financially, she would not participate in a similar reality programme again.
“I’ll never go to a show like Big Brother Naija again in my life. I’m happy I did it because, of course, it changed my life money-wise, but I’m never doing it again if I’m given the opportunity.”
She said the criticism and insults she received for years after the show eventually affected her emotionally.
“I had to see a therapist because of that show.”
According to Erica, she initially did not realise how much the backlash was affecting her until she began experiencing anxiety, particularly when using social media.
“When I open Instagram, I just see notifications. I was always anxious, and I don’t like that.”
The actress said she underwent therapy in 2024 and deliberately took a break from acting during the year to focus on herself.
“I went to therapy in 2024. 2024 was my quiet time. I didn’t act in any movie.”
She explained that taking the break helped her recognise issues she had previously overlooked and gave her time to work on herself before returning to acting.
Erica had previously revealed in 2021 that she experienced what she described as “full-blown anxiety” after her time on the reality show.
She participated in the 2020 edition of BBNaija but was disqualified after breaching the house rules.
Her latest comments come amid similar reflections from former housemate Mercy Eke, who has also spoken about regretting her participation in the reality show despite acknowledging the opportunities it created for her.
Source: Interview with Toke Moment.
