Married At First Sight's Domenica Calarco opens up on her heartbreaking mental health struggle: 'It was a sadness I'd never felt before'

Married At First Sight star Domenica Calarco has bravely detailed her experience in a mental health ward.

The 31-year-old former makeup artist shared her harrowing journey through depression and anxiety in a candid interview on the Today Extra on Monday.

Domenica revealed the depths of her struggle, describing a moment when she realised she needed more help than her friends and family could provide.

'It was a moment where I just was in a sadness that I'd never felt before,' Domenica shared.

'And things that would generally make me happy, like my dog or having my morning coffee, those little things couldn't even get me out of it. I just knew I needed a circuit breaker.'

Calarco admitted she was in such a dark place that she didn't want to be here anymore.

Reflecting on where she was just four months ago, she expressed disbelief at how far she has come.

'It's really sad even when I think back to four months ago where I was at… I'm a changed person now.'

'I think I'm still dealing with the anxieties and the depression, like I feel like that'll be my journey for a while. But having all of those new tools in my tool kit now to help me through is just, oh my god, it's amazing.'

Living in the public eye has only added to the pressure, Domenica admitted, but she has found solace in the very platform that often draws criticism.

'People are really quick to judge and say get off social media, get out of the limelight,' she explained. 

'But hang on, this is a career that I've chosen and that I really enjoy. And social media has actually been a great part of my healing.'

Domenica revealed that group therapy during her stay in the mental health ward was a turning point for her, and she now uses her social media platforms as a form of extended group therapy, where she fosters a safe space for her followers to share their struggles.

'I've built this really amazing community on there, and it's something I'm very proud of,' she said, highlighting the positives of social media in contrast to its often negative reputation.

Looking to the future, Domenica is determined to use her platform to make a difference in the mental health space.

She acknowledged how fortunate she was to have access to private health insurance, which allowed her to receive the care she needed, but she expressed concern for those who are not as privileged.

'Being in a mental health ward, knowing how hard it was to even get into one… I think Australia really has a lot to learn when it comes to mental health,' she said.

Domenica also touched on the impact of the cost-of-living crisis, noting how it exacerbates mental health struggles.

She called for greater focus on equipping people with the tools to help those in need.

'I really want to partner with a charity… We need to focus on that mental health first aid,' she urged.

'If your friend, your wife, your sister comes to you and says I'm really not struggling, we don't have the tools to help that person. To triage them.'

As she continues her own healing journey, Domenica is committed to sharing her story in the hope that it will help others.

'Just being open and vulnerable… I know that it helps so many people. And if sharing my story can help one person, then I'm just going to keep doing it.'

For those struggling with mental health, help is available. You can reach Lifeline on 13 11 14