James 'Arg' Argent went through a "horrible" phase over Christmas.
James Argent
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."
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