Behind the scenes of her successful career, Rebecca Gibney has been fighting a private battle.
The beloved actress opened up about her lifelong struggles with anxiety and panic attacks in a raw post on social media, alongside devastating photos of herself where she wasn’t coping.
The 60-year-old New Zealand-born star admitted she contemplated suicide in her 30s, and shared her own story in the hopes it may be able to help others.
Rebecca Gibney shares candid post about her mental health struggles, a private battle she’s faced for most of her life. (Instagram/@rebeccagibney_)
“As some of you know I struggled with severe anxiety and panic attacks for most of my life,” she wrote.
Gibney explained she dropped out of school at 15 and fell into acting by chance, something that has given her the most “extraordinary career.”
“In my early thirties I had everything,” she continued.
“Thriving career, solid family, extraordinary friendships. But deep down I was spiralling. The weekly panic attacks became daily then hourly.
READ MORE: Nicole Kidman gives update on Keith Urban split
READ MORE: Emotional lesson Robert Irwin took from losing Steve at age two
READ MORE: Lizzo weighs in on ‘Ozempic boom’
“As some of you know I struggled with severe anxiety and panic attacks for most of my life.” (Instagram/@rebeccagibney_)
“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.”
The Packed to The Rafters star explained that while she was writing a letter to her mum she realised she would “never get over losing me”, which is what made her stop.
“I was lucky. I got help. I found a therapist. And with baby steps I eventually came home to myself,” she continued.
She revealed after the birth of her son Zachary, now 21, her panic attacks seemed to disappear, adding, “I thought I was OK”.
Rebecca thought things were fine after the birth of her son, Zachary, now 21. Pictured together at the Logies. (Getty Images for TV WEEK Logie A)
That was until earlier this year, when she admitted “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.”
Despite getting help, she explained she has had struggles and she wants others to know that not everything is how it seems 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,” she continued.
Rebecca Gibney shared the raw post in the hopes that she may be able to show others who are struggling they aren’t alone. (Instagram)
Gibney added there are so many ways to get help, and urged those who may be struggling to reach out.
She began the post by explaining that the news of close friends losing someone to suicide had deeply affected her, even though she didn’t know the person personally.
For a daily dose of 9honey, subscribe to our newsletter here.
Gibney’s followers praised her for her honesty and sharing the post.
“You’re extraordinary and have helped so many by sharing,” commented Lana Wilkinson.
“Thank you so so much for shearing this Bec. This would give so many people hope and a sense of being seen. You’re an incredible human and an inspiration to many. Didn’t think you could be more awesome but this post proved me wrong. Lots of love. ❤️ Such a courageous and selfless post. Bravo and gratitude,” wrote actor Ryan Johnson.
“My beautiful Bec 😢 I love you so much, you are the sun and I’m a moon in orbit. I cannot imagine a world where you are not here. You are essential my love,” commented Hugh Sheridan.
Other fans and famous friends applauded the message, with many reinforcing how much this could help others.
If you or someone you know is in need of support contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue. In the event of an emergency dial Triple Zero (000).
FOLLOW US ON WHATSAPP HERE: Stay across all the latest in celebrity, lifestyle and opinion via our WhatsApp channel. No comments, no algorithm and nobody can see your private details.