Jesy Nelson announced Monday she has decided to quit Little Mix after “much consideration and with a heavy heart.”
“The truth is recently being in the band has really taken a toll on my mental health,” she explained in a message on Instagram. “I find the constant pressure of being in a girl group and living up to expectations very hard.”
In a statement of its own, Little Mix said: “After an amazing 9 years together Jesy has made the decision to leave Little Mix. This is an incredibly sad time for all of us but we are fully supportive of Jesy. We love her very much and agree that it is so important that she does what is right for her mental health and well-being.”
Less than a month ago, the British pop group announced that Nelson was taking “extended time off” for “private medical reasons.” Nelson tweeted only: “I’m okay. Thank you for your support.”
The 29-year-old had been noticeably absent from Little Mix in several recent television appearances, including the MTV European Music Awards, which the group hosted. A rep said at the time that Nelson was “unwell.”
Last year, Nelson opened up about mental health struggles – including a suicide attempt – sparked by vitriol on social media.
“I need to spend some time with the people I love, doing things that make me happy,” Nelson said in Monday’s message. “I’m ready to embark on a new chapter in my life.”
She thanked the remaining members – Jade Thirlwall, Perrie Edwards and Leigh-Anne Pinnock “for creating some of the most amazing memories I’ll never forget.”
They explained that Nelson’s departure is not the end of Little Mix.
“We know that Jesy leaving the group is going to be really upsetting news for our fans,” read the statement. “We love you guys so much and are so grateful for your loyalty and continued support of all of us. We’re looking forward to seeing so many of you on tour.”
Little Mix released its sixth album, Confetti, last month.