Kate Ritchie Returns to Social Media, Takes Mental Health Leave from Nova After Public Meltdown

Kate Ritchie Returns to Social Media After Mental Health Break, Promotes New ABC Series

[Image 1: Kate Ritchie at a park, appearing distressed]
Caption: Kate Ritchie was photographed in January during a public emotional episode while picking up her daughter.

Former Home and Away star and Nova 96.9 radio host Kate Ritchie, 46, has returned to social media after a two-week hiatus following images of her appearing dishevelled and tearful in public. The media personality, who has been open about her mental health struggles, shared a promotional post for her upcoming ABC comedy-documentary The Role of A Lifetime, set to premiere on February 18. The series explores the challenges of parenthood, a theme close to Ritchie’s life as a mother to 10-year-old daughter Mae.

Mental Health Statement
Last week, Ritchie released a candid statement via Instagram, explaining her decision to step back from her Nova radio show. “I struggle with mental health issues at times, which are deeply personal. This has proven to be a bigger challenge than I imagined,” she wrote. “The images of me taken last week show that I wasn’t okay on that day… Thank you to my wonderful family, Nova listeners, and those sending love. I appreciate it more than you can imagine.”

[Image 2: Kate Ritchie’s Instagram statement]
Caption: Ritchie addressed her mental health struggles in a heartfelt Instagram post.

The “images” referenced were taken on January 29, when Ritchie was seen visiting a bottle shop, picking up her daughter from school, and breaking down in a Sydney park. Witnesses described her as “distressed,” crying during a phone call and struggling to stand. Her daughter remained in the car during the incident.

Career Challenges and Support
Ritchie’s absence from her Nova breakfast show has raised concerns among station executives, who view her as crucial to the program’s success. Despite trailing in Sydney’s competitive radio market, the show has seen recent audience growth. “Kate’s arguably the biggest star and the best reason to tune in,” a source said. “We hope she’ll be back soon.”

[Image 3: Kate Ritchie filming The Role of A Lifetime]
Caption: Ritchie’s new ABC series focuses on parenting challenges.

Past Incidents and Rehabilitation
Ritchie’s recent struggles follow a series of personal challenges. In November 2023, she was involved in a multi-vehicle collision in Randwick, where her BMW collided with parked cars. Months earlier, she stumbled while exiting a chauffeur-driven car in Sydney.

In 2022, Ritchie sought treatment for alcohol dependency after a low-level drink-driving charge. She apologized publicly and took a leave from radio, later stating, “Life has thrown me its challenges… I sought professional help to be a better version of myself for my family.”

[Image 4: Kate Ritchie at a public event]
Caption: Ritchie has been candid about her journey to address personal struggles.

Looking Ahead
As Ritchie focuses on recovery, fans await her return to radio and her ABC series debut. Her openness about mental health resonates with many, highlighting the pressures faced by public figures.

If you or someone you know needs support, contact Lifeline at 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.au. In emergencies, call 000.

[Image 5: promotional poster for The Role of A Lifetime]
Caption: Ritchie’s new ABC series premieres February 18.

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