'Tired and sad': Rob Mills quits alcohol and social media after death of two friends

Rob Mills has announced he’s quitting alcohol and social media for a month — or more — after recently losing two friends to cancer.

The Aussie star, 38, declared his intentions in a lengthy Instagram Stories post on Tuesday, revealing that he was ‘tired and sad’ and needed to step away from booze and the spotlight in order to look after himself.

“I’m tired. And I’m sad. There seems to be a lot of sadness around at the moment from BLM [Black Lives Matter], Covid, the Arts...” the ex-Neighbours cast member began.

“I lost two friends last month. To cancer. 48 and 38 years of age. Michael Falzon and Joe Sassone. F*** cancer, seriously,” he went on.

The Australian Idol alum explained that he was “going booze free for a month” and directed people who wanted to support him on his Dry July endeavour to his donation page.

Rob also paid tribute to his friend, musical theatre star Michael, who lost his battle with a rare form of germ cell cancer on June 23 after being diagnosed last year.

“Mate thank you for those memories. The best. You were one of the best leading men. What a legacy you leave behind. I always looked up to you,” he wrote.

Rob and Michael, along with The Voice’s Luke Kennedy and Wonderland actor Ben Mingay, were members of the jazz band Swing On This.

He then addressed Joe Sassone’s passing, calling him ‘an incredible inspiration’ to the many young people he taught.

Rob noted the rise in youth suicide rates in Australia during the COVID-19 crisis and urged fans to check out youth charity The Reach Foundation.

“So that's it for me. I'm sad. I'm taking a break. From the drink and from social media for a month. Maybe longer. I wanna enjoy the moment, rather than enjoy the amount of likes the moment receives,” the RUOK day ambassador concluded his post.

In April, Millsy appeared in a video by Mental Health Australia in which he encouraged his followers to check in on their own mental wellbeing.

“Virtual hugs for everyone. Hope this helps,” he captioned the clip.

And over Easter, he shared a snap of himself sporting a t-shirt with the phrase ‘Hello Sunday Morning,’ which is the name of an Aussie charity that aims to change peoples’ relationship with alcohol.

If you are concerned about the mental health of yourself or a loved one, seek support and information by calling Lifeline on 13 11 14, Mensline on 1300 789 978, or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.

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