James ‘Arg’ Argent went through a "horrible" phase over Christmas.
The television personality returned to ‘The Only Way Is Essex’ last night (01.03.15), following his suspension from the show for his partying antics.
He told viewers: "I feel good. The person I am today to what I was two or three months ago is a completely different person.
"In the past I was putting on a bit of an act. I’d be quite low and lonely at home by myself and in a bad place but when I was around my friends I’d make out I was fine.
"I’m not going to lie. It was a horrible, dark, bad phase I had. Not only was I killing myself and I nearly lost everything, I was also really hurting the people around me. My family are so much happier now and proud of me."
The 27-year-old television personality – who also completed a stint in rehab over the festive period – praised his ex-girlfriend Lydia Bright for inspiring him to change.
He said: "She’s really been there for me. Her support and her family’s support has meant everything to me. Debbie looks at me like another son."
James later told his former flame – who has since started dating a mystery man she met in Thailand – that it would be better for them to cease contact for a while.
He told her: "Having contact with you is a bit negative on my life at the moment.
"I think it’s a good idea you do your thing and I do my thing. I’m going to take a step back. It’s probably the right thing for myself and you as well."
James Argent: I went through a ‘horrible’ phase
