“The Bachelorette” contestant Logan Palmer wrote a candid message about his mental health following his abrupt exit on Monday’s episode.
The 26-year-old San Diego resident shared on Instagram that he’s been “struggling” with his well-being since he was 12 and that he found the process of joining a reality TV show “more difficult” than he “ever thought possible.” “.
“Destructive thoughts and constant doubt are hurdles that I think everyone has to deal with from time to time, but not everyone talks about,” he wrote. “I also want to be transparent about that part of my journey and I hope I can be a safe place for others who are struggling with it. Recognizing my mental health and how it affects the people around me will be a priority for the rest of my life.”
Palmer admitted that his time on the ABC series was “not all roses,” but assured viewers that he was “grateful” for the opportunity.
“I thought it was something new, it was an adventure. But I came to 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 thankful 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 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 line up in the end” for him and Windey, but thanked her for making him a “better person.”
“Watching myself on Monday night gave me a different perspective,” he wrote. “I will always be someone who will steer with his heart, whether 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 my life.”
Palmer quietly left the show ahead of the 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 night’s cocktail party, which Jesse vaguely blamed for “a situation with Logan” during a conversation with the other men vying for Windey’s heart.
However, towards the end of the episode, Windey announced, “Logan can’t be with us for the rest of our journey,” indicating that he had chosen to eliminate himself.
“The Bachelorette” airs Mondays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.