Industry trailblazer takes to social media to encourage others to seek help if they need it.
Rebecca Gibney has taken to social media to encourage those dealing with anxiety, depression and self-doubts with a most personal message about her own experience.
Her Instagram post follows people losing close friends to suicide within a 48 hour period.
Gibney, soon to host Millionaire Hot Seat for 10, shares how she suffered severe anxiety during her teens prior to her acting career.
Even with career success there were still struggles, but therapy helped. Comments collectively applauded her for her frankness and support of others.
“MENTAL HEALTH WARNING – some people might find the following disturbing. Suicide is discussed,” she wrote.
“Over the last 48 hours I’ve had two people share with me that they have recently lost close friends to suicide and are attending funerals over the coming days. I didn’t know either of the friends but it really affected me as it’s been a subject that is coming up over and over again.
“The hopelessness, the fear, the pain.
“As some of you know I struggled with severe anxiety and panic attacks for most of my life. As a teen I was often erratic, impulsive, prone to rages and was bored easily. I dropped out of high school at 15. I fell into acting by chance and it has given me the most extraordinary career. And purpose.
“In my early thirties I had everything. Thriving career, solid family, extraordinary friendships. But deep down I was spiralling. The weekly panic attacks became daily then hourly. The self loathing was constant and my pain was so deep I didn’t know how to deal with it. I just knew I wanted it over.
“It was while I was writing a letter to my mum that I suddenly realised that she would never understand and would never get over losing me. It made me stop. I was lucky. I got help. I found a therapist. And with baby steps I eventually came home to myself. And after the birth of our son I found my panic attacks even went away. I thought I was ok.
“Until earlier this year when my optimistic bubble burst. Suddenly the panic returned, the stress, the sadness – and I found myself back in the pit of self doubt, fear and anxiety.
So I picked up the phone and made a call that would change my life. I got help and treatment and I am back doing what I love. But there have been struggles. Not everything is what it may seem on the surface. I guess what I’m trying to say is – we ALL mask our pain but we all also feel it. You’re not alone.
“There are many incredible organisations and places to help. Please just pick up the phone or go online. I’ve listed a few places below and in the comment section. Light really does follow the dark. Hang in there ❤️”
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue 1300 22 46 36
Mensline 1300 789 978