**Dr Alex George Reflects on Personal Grief and Mental Health Advocacy in Moving Cardiff Speech**
Love Island’s Dr Alex George has spoken candidly about the enduring heartbreak of losing his younger brother, Llyr, and the profound impact it has had on his life and career. Addressing graduates at Cardiff University, Dr George shared not only his personal memories but also the lessons he has learned through grief—emphasising the importance of commemorating achievements with loved ones while prioritising well-being.
During the recent graduation ceremony where he was honoured with a university fellowship, Dr Alex delivered an emotional speech to students, reflecting on his late brother’s aspirations. He recalled how this summer was meant to mark Llyr’s own graduation as a newly qualified doctor—a moment that will now go unfulfilled. Llyr died by suicide at the age of 19, just weeks before he was to begin his medical studies.
Dr George described the bittersweet memory of his own graduation day, when Llyr, full of pride, watched him collect his degree. “He wore a blue tie to match his bright blue eyes. He looked at me and said, ‘I’m so proud of you, Alex. I love you.’ That moment remains one of my most treasured memories,” he told the Cardiff audience. Dr George urged the new graduates not to take such moments for granted, highlighting the irreplaceable value of shared experiences and achievements with those we love.
Since his brother’s passing in 2020, Dr George has emerged as a prominent mental health advocate. He has taken on the role of Youth Mental Health Ambassador to the UK government, drawing on his experience as both a doctor and bereaved sibling to champion improved mental health support for young people. His activism has included presenting a BBC documentary examining young people’s mental health challenges, launching a podcast that underscores the therapeutic value of nature, and writing books that make mental health advice more accessible.
In his Cardiff speech, Dr George encouraged graduates to embrace their authentic selves and to reject the pressure of perfectionism. “Know that you have already arrived and that you have always been enough,” he said. “Aim not to be perfect, but to embrace your imperfections. Let go of what no longer serves you, and truly live in the present.”
Reflecting on grief in the weeks surrounding the ceremony, Dr George also shared his thoughts with followers on social media. He remarked: “Grief isn’t something to get over. It’s something we learn to live alongside. Some days, I laugh. Other days, I cry. And always, there’s a space in my heart that will never be filled—but that’s the price we pay for love.” He added that the memories of those we have lost live on as long as we keep them alive in our hearts and actions.
For those affected by mental health struggles in Wales, several charities and support lines are available, including Mind Cymru, Beat Cymru, the Community Advice & Listening Line (CALL), and the Samaritans. These organisations provide confidential support, advice, and resources for individuals and families facing mental health challenges.
Dr Alex George’s advocacy underscores a growing need for society to address mental health openly and constructively. His willingness to share his grief and the hard-learned lessons from it offers solace to many who may be experiencing similar pain and confusion. As a former A&E doctor and a familiar face from television, his journey illustrates that loss does not discriminate—rather, it connects people across backgrounds and professions.
His appeal to the graduating class was clear: to value the people around them, savour the present, and be gentle with themselves as they navigate both triumphs and trials. As the next generation of professionals sets out, Dr George’s words serve as an important reminder that resilience and compassion are vital, not only for personal health but for creating a more understanding community at large.
For anyone seeking support for themselves or a loved one coping with mental health issues or grief, resources are readily available in Wales and across the UK, offering a network of care in times of need.