In a heartfelt revelation, Jesy Nelson, the former Little Mix member, has expressed her support for a ban on social media for individuals under 16, citing her own battles with online trolling and its detrimental impact on mental health. In a new documentary, she candidly shares her experiences while navigating motherhood and the challenges she faces with her twin daughters, Ocean and Story.
Jesy’s Journey Through Motherhood
Having experienced the harsh realities of social media since her debut on The X Factor in 2011, the singer reflects on how the constant barrage of online negativity contributed to a decline in her well-being. Now a mother, she believes it is crucial to protect young children from similar experiences. Speaking with BBC Newsbeat, she stated, “I’m all for kids being kids for as long as possible.” However, she acknowledges the fear of bullying that can arise when children feel pressured to conform to social media norms.
The UK government recently initiated a consultation to explore measures aimed at safeguarding the mental health of young people. For Jesy, the stakes are personal. She hopes her daughters will grow up in an environment where they feel secure and valued, without the pressures of social media.
A Candid Look at Her Struggles
Jesy’s documentary, “Life After Little Mix,” not only highlights her pregnancy journey but also the unexpected challenges she faced. During her pregnancy, she learned that her twins would be born with Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome—a serious condition impacting twins sharing a placenta. Following a complicated birth at just 31 weeks, the family faced further difficulties when Ocean and Story were diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 1, a severe genetic disorder that can lead to profound muscle weakness.
Grateful for the opportunity to document her experiences, Jesy aims to preserve these moments for her daughters, while also raising awareness about SMA. “Obviously, it just did not play out in any way, shape, or form in which I thought it was going to,” she admitted, reflecting on her shifting motivations for sharing her story.
Facing the Reality of SMA
The twins have recently received a one-time gene infusion treatment, which can help maintain existing muscle function but cannot reverse the damage already done. Jesy has been informed that Ocean and Story may never walk or regain neck strength. Despite the grim prognosis, she remains optimistic, stating, “They’re happy and they’re smiling, and that’s all I can ask for.”
The ongoing demands of caring for her daughters, who require frequent hospital visits, have made the past year particularly challenging for Jesy and her partner, musician Zion Foster. “Our main focus is our girls,” she emphasised, highlighting their commitment to co-parenting with positivity and love.
Navigating Fame and Its Challenges
In addition to her personal struggles, the documentary also explores Jesy’s complex relationship with fame. She discusses her departure from Little Mix in 2020 and the controversies that followed, including accusations of “blackfishing” regarding her solo work. Jesy has expressed regret that more could have been done to support artists’ mental health during their rise to fame.
Reflecting on her experience with online trolls, she noted that therapy has equipped her with a greater understanding of those who engage in such behaviour. “No happy person would ever feel the need to go and say something mean,” she remarked, showing her growth and empathy despite the pain she has endured.
Why it Matters
Jesy Nelson’s advocacy for a social media ban for those under 16 underscores a significant issue facing today’s youth. As mental health continues to be a pressing concern, her insights and experiences serve as a powerful reminder of the need for protective measures. By sharing her challenges and pushing for awareness regarding SMA, Jesy not only highlights the importance of community and support in times of struggle but also inspires others to prioritise mental well-being in an increasingly digital world.
