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Kate Ritchie calls out 'relentless stalking' of paparazzi amid mental health struggles
The former Home and Away actress revealed she will take a break from her radio show.
Kate Ritchie has revealed she will be taking a break from her Nova breakfast show to focus on her mental health. The former Home and Away star made the announcement after the Daily Mail shared paparazzi photos of her appearing anguished last week.
In the photos, Kate appeared to break down in tears in a park after taking a phone call that left her burying her face into her hands in distress. Taking to Instagram, she shared a lengthy statement, which read: "I struggle with mental health issues at times, which are deeply personal. This has proven to be a bigger challenge than I imagined."
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Referencing the radio show she hosts with Ryan 'Fitzy' Fitzgerald and Michal 'Wippa' Wipfli, she said, "So, I have decided to take a break from the show and the team who I love, to focus on my health. I want to thank all of those who are helping me through this very difficult time. I love you. Thank you Nova for being there when I need you."
Kate continued, "This is also a problem many others are struggling with. They know what it's like. The images of me taken last week show that I wasn't okay on that day. My struggle is not helped by the relentless stalking of me by the paparazzi, in fact, they are making it much worse. Due to their constant harassment, they significantly add pressure and make my recovery that much more difficult."
She questioned whether "those profiting from invading my privacy" would do the same if it was their "sister, mother or daughter" who was going through "similar challenges".
"Please reconsider and stop and think of the harm you are inflicting, and give me the space and privacy I need," Kate said. "Thank you to my wonderful family, all the Nova listeners, and many others, who are sending their love and support. I appreciate it more than you can imagine. Thank you."
Kate Ritchie's friends and followers share support
Many of Kate's followers shared support for the actress and radio host, with Fitzy writing, "Love you Kate. Always here."
Wippa's wife, Lisa, wrote, "Love you @kateritchieofficial this is so brave of you to share. You will be helping so many other people suffering with mental health.
"You’re brave and strong and will get through this hard time. We’re here for you every step of the way."
Natalie Bassingthwaighte added, "You hold your head high. @kateritchieofficial no one should be invading your privacy ever. You’ve got this. Know that you are loved. Hang in there. One day at a time . Take the time that you need to heal."
"I was appalled at the invasion of privacy!" one follower said. "How dare they! My heart breaks for you right now. Take the time to heal and I look forward to hearing you back on the radio when you're ready. Much love and strength to you xx."
"We are all on your side with this one Kate," another added.
"It was disgusting how they exploited you in such a vulnerable state," a third wrote.
Kate has previously faced similar challenges with the paparazzi. In 2022 she took a break from her radio show after the Daily Mail shared photos of her entering and leaving a private mental health clinic in Sydney.
She told her followers that 2022 was “incredibly emotionally challenging” for her, which saw her develop “an unhealthy reliance on alcohol”.
"I decided to use this time to do something positive by getting the help I need from professionals who specialise in this area," she wrote at the time.
Mental health support for yourself or a loved one can be found by calling Lifeline on 13 11 14, Mensline on 1300 789 978, or the Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.Online support is available via Beyond Blue.
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