“Summer House” star KJ Dillard is being praised for his honesty after sharing a deeply personal update about his mental health during the show’s emotional season 10 reunion.
During the Tuesday, May 26 reunion episode, host Andy Cohen highlighted the support KJ had received from viewers for speaking openly about mental health struggles throughout the season.
KJ Bravely Opens Up
In response, the 28-year-old revealed that things became significantly more difficult after filming wrapped.
“In the fall, I went through some heavy stuff mentally,” KJ shared. “I actually had to go to the hospital for self-harm, and I was there for a week.”
The revelation left many of his castmates visibly emotional as KJ explained how those closest to him stepped up during one of the darkest periods of his life.
He credited fellow cast members Mia Calabrese and Ciara Miller — whom he called his “sisters for life” during the season — for supporting him through recovery.
According to KJ, both women visited him almost daily while he was hospitalized.
Through tears, he reflected on what came next after leaving the hospital.
“Then I went to recovery and that solidified it for me,” he said. “I was there for a few months. I got to focus to myself, and I needed that, because I think my whole life I distracted myself and ran away from my issues instead of facing them head on. But now I’m better.”
KJ also revealed that while receiving treatment, doctors diagnosed him with Borderline Personality Disorder, often referred to as BPD.
He Continues to Work on His Health
He shared that he has since started medication and continues to work with a therapist as part of his healing journey.
“I’m grateful that I’m here, alive, ‘cause I could have not been,” he said emotionally. “And I’m thankful for just the support of my friends. Like everyone here has somewhat shown support in their own way, so I appreciate that. And I’m very thankful that the audience is just embracing that, because it’s my truth.”
He added, “I’m not gonna not be honest about what I go through—especially if it can help others.”
The heartfelt moment moved several cast members to tears, including Jesse Solomon, who sat beside KJ during the reunion.
“It’s a moving story,” Jesse said. “I’m just—I feel for you, and I’m glad you’re good. Because I don’t want anybody to go through that. So, I’m happy he’s feeling better.”
Meanwhile, Carl Radke also shared words of encouragement, telling KJ, “You’re gonna keep doing great stuff man.”
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, borderline personality disorder is described as a “serious mental illness that affects how a person feels about themselves and others and makes it hard to function in everyday life.”
Symptoms can include impulsive behavior, emotional instability, shifting self-image and challenges in relationships.
By sharing his story publicly, KJ is continuing his advocacy for mental health awareness — something fans have applauded throughout the season.
His openness at the reunion served as a reminder that healing is often ongoing, and that asking for help can be life-changing.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, call or text 988 in the U.S. to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
