Stacey Dooley thinks she's a "massive wimp" when filming her documentaries.
Stacey Dooley
The 33-year-old documentary-maker - who has explored issues such as child labour and the fate of women in developing countries during her career - has admitted she is secretly terrified of being on the frontline.
She told Glamour magazine: "I'm actually a massive wimp.
"I think people assume that I'm really brave and I'm really courageous because I go to these quite hostile environments, but actually I'm such a p**sy so much of the time.
"I am s***ting myself when I'm on the frontline or when I'm not entirely sure how it's all going to play out. I do feel sick to the pit of my stomach."
Stacey has considered sticking to entertainment television shows - but she knows that deep down, she wouldn't be "fulfilled" in her career.
The TV star continued: "I'll think, 'Oh, Stacey, you voluntarily got on the plane, you really wanted this commission, and now you're here, you're really frightened.' Because I could very easily just do straight entertainment, I could stay in the UK and do well-paid gigs, but I don't think I'd feel fulfilled.
"That's not to sound too earnest or too highbrow, but I think I recognise my privilege and I think, 'God, we're able to bring stories to a demographic that don't necessarily listen to 'Question Time' or 'Newsnight' religiously.'"
Stacey's documentary series has taken her across the world to talk to people about morbid crimes and evil situations.
She considers herself "mentally strong" but also believes it's brave to ask for help.
Stacey explained: "I do think I am mentally strong, and I recognise how important it is to look after yourself. I think it's very admirable when you are struggling or you're having a wobble to say, 'F**k it, I need a bit of help.' I would never be against that.
"People always say to me, 'Have you had therapy? Do you speak to someone after all of these trips?' And I haven't, actually.
"I've been offered it a couple of times, but I haven't rejected it because I'm this fierce, strong woman and I can handle this."
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