Nova’s Fitzy and Wippa have shared a statement in support of co-host Kate Ritchie after she announced she’s taking a break from radio.
The pair, who host Fitzy and Wippa with Kate Ritchie with the former Home and Away star, shared a message for the star amid her mental health battle.
Michael “Wippa” Wipfli, 45, spoke about Ritchie releasing her own statement and praised her for speaking up, calling her “so brave” and saying he is a “proud” friend.
Watch the video above.
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”Yesterday [she] found the strength and the energy to release a statement about her position and battle with mental health,” he said.
“That’s why we celebrate Kate for putting her hand up and being so brave. I’m so proud of my friend.”
In her statement, Ritchie admitted she “struggles with mental health issues at times” and announced she was taking a break from the radio show to focus on herself and her health.
“I struggle with mental health issues at times, which are deeply personal,” Ritchie began in her post.
“This has proven to be a bigger challenge than I imagined. So, I have decided to take a break from the show and the team who I love, to focus on my health.”
“This is also a problem many others are struggling with. They know what it’s like,” she added in part of her statement.
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She also thanked Nova, her family and listeners for their support during this time.
“Thank you to my wonderful family, all the Nova listeners, and many others, who are sending their love and support,” the post finished.
“I appreciate it more than you can imagine. Thank you. Kate x.”
Ritchie rose to fame as a child actor in the long-running soap Home and Away, in which she portrayed the role of Sally Fletcher.
In the years since, she has seldom returned to the role and also moved to radio for her career.
If you or someone you know is in need of support contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, Beyond Blue or in the event of an emergency dial Triple Zero (000).
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