Love Island has sparked concerns about its impact on mental health after new research revealed nearly a quarter of 18-24 year olds worry about their body image after watching reality TV.
A new batch of singletons will be introduced to an audience of millions as they couple up for the first time on tonight's show.
But mental health campaigners have issued a warning over the impact of reality TV on the mental health of younger viewers.
Out of 4,505 18-24 year olds surveyed by YouGov, 24 per cent admitted that reality shows made them worry about their body image while 23 per cent revealed they had had suicidal thoughts in relation to concerns over their body image.
A further 34 per cent said that pictures used for promotional and advertisement purposes made them worry about their own body image.
“Millions of people enjoy Love Island for a whole range of reasons,” Dr Antonis Kousoulis of The Mental Health Foundation said.
“Our concern is how the programme projects body images that are not diverse, largely unrealistic and presented as aspirational.
"Our research clearly shows that a large number of young people say reality TV has a negative impact on how they feel about their own bodies.”
He added that “concerns about body image are linked to anxiety, depression and feelings of shame and disgust”.
The statement confirmed that all contestants will be offered “enhanced psychological support” before and after filming as well as when they return home.
The report, released during the run-up to the new series, explained that the format of the show will remain the same but islanders will be given “detailed explanations both verbally and in writing of the implications, both positive and negative, of taking part in the series”.
Hopefuls were required to disclose any relevant medical history as well as undergoing rigorous assessments. They will also have access to a welfare team both during the show and after as well as a senior team who have Mental Health First Aid training. They will be offered a number of sessions with a therapist and offered help from ITV until the start of next year's series.
Love Island returns tonight at 9pm on ITV2
