Former X Factor star Jahmene Douglas has admitted he is struggling daily with suicidal thoughts and said he thinks it is important for celebrities to be open about their depression.

Jahmene, who was the runner-up on the reality show in 2012 after losing out to James Arthur, said he is still dealing with the impact of his abusive father.

X Factor judge Nicole Scherzinger with finalists James Arthur, right, and Jahmene Douglas
(Dave Thompson/PA)

He told ITV’s Lorraine: “I think it’s really dishonest if you’re in the public eye to say that everything is okay and everything is perfect.

“It’s good to be honest. I am struggling daily. Suicide is a thing that you struggle with daily and I’m trying to be honest with that journey.”

Jahmene Douglas before Unity: A concert for Stephen Lawrence at the O2 Arena
(John Stillwell/PA)

Jahmene, whose brother Daniel committed suicide, added: “My foundations are built on abuse and I have to pick that apart and hopefully that comes across in the music that the strength is there and the love is there.

“You can’t let a bad situation define who you are, it shaped me into who I am now so I wouldn’t take anything back.

“I know everything was horrific but God has a purpose and I can uplift other people going through the same thing with my music.”

Jahmene Douglas
(Tim Ireland/PA)

Douglas’ mother Mandy Thomas has written a book about the 18 years of abuse she suffered from her former partner, who was eventually jailed for attacking her.

The singer, who is releasing a new album, said his mother has recently been working with The Archers to help with a domestic abuse storyline involving victim Helen Titchener.

He told Lorraine: “She’s done a lot with The Archers recently, she helped talk with the actors.”

Lorraine is on weekdays on ITV at 8.30am.