Survivor Host Jeff Probst Discusses Psychological Support for Contestants in Wake of Ben's Panic Attack

Jeff Probst Says Survivor s Psychologists Would Intervene if Needed Following Ben s Panic Attack 603

Robert Voets/CBS

Jeff Probst shared on the "On Fire" podcast that the Survivor psychology team was prepared to help Ben Katzman when he had a panic attack.

Probst mentioned that besides having medical doctors on site, they also had mental health specialists available. He explained that they informed the psychologists about Ben's situation and were ready to intervene if there was any concern for his well-being.

Probst, the longtime host of the show, acknowledged that it might seem “counterintuitive” to prioritize the physical and mental health of contestants, considering the game's focus on pushing players to their limits. However, he emphasized that the well-being of the contestants is the top priority for him and the producers.

“I’m very proud of the aftercare program we have in place for both medical and mental health issues,” Probst explained. “I believe we go above and beyond compared to other shows in our genre. Our support doesn’t end when the cameras stop rolling - it continues for as long as a player needs it.”

During the latest episode of Survivor 46, Ben, aged 31, suddenly woke up in the middle of the night feeling panicked and was breathing heavily. Ben, who has been open about his struggles with anxiety, described the experience as "50 seconds of hysteria." Luckily, his fellow tribemate Kenzie Petty was there to support him until the panic attack passed. (Kenzie also revealed that her mother and sister deal with anxiety issues.)

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Robert Voets/CBS

While Probst wasn’t present to witness the sweet moment between Ben and Kenzie, he was proud watching that moment back.

"I'm really happy and touched that Ben's community, especially Kenzie, looked out for each other," he said. "It shows how much things have changed in the past 15 years."

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Probst pointed out that the show's emphasis on mental health aligns with society's current focus on well-being. He noted that Survivor has always mirrored the culture of the time. Looking back at the past 23 years of the show, viewers can see how each season reflects the changes and evolution of our society. Actions that took place in the early seasons would not be accepted today, while events in current seasons would have been unimaginable 15 years ago.

Ben is not the only contestant on the reality show who has faced mental health challenges. In Survivor 45, Brandon Donlon experienced a panic attack during the first challenge in the premiere episode. Although he was checked by the medical team and given the go-ahead to continue, Brandon was ultimately the second person voted out.

During the same season, Katurah Topps also had a panic attack during a challenge. She decided to step down temporarily to compose herself. Despite this setback, Katurah persevered in the game and ended up finishing in fourth place.

Editor's P/S:

"Survivor," a popular reality competition show, has taken a progressive approach by prioritizing the mental well-being of its contestants. The show's producers have implemented an aftercare program and have mental health specialists on site to assist contestants facing challenges. This emphasis on well-being reflects society's growing awareness of mental health issues and the importance of supporting those who struggle. By providing a safe and supportive environment, "Survivor" demonstrates that even in a high-pressure competition, the health and safety of the participants should come first.

The article highlights several instances where contestants experienced panic attacks and received support from their tribemates and the show's medical team. This camaraderie and willingness to prioritize mental health is a testament to the positive changes that have occurred in the past 15 years. It shows that society has become more empathetic and understanding of mental health challenges, and that individuals are more willing to help and support those in need.