Kelly Ripa, beloved co-host of “Live with Kelly and Mark,” recently opened up about her decision to start therapy at the age of forty. In a heartfelt conversation on her podcast, “Let’s Talk Off Camera,” Ripa shared a personal moment that sparked her journey into therapy.
It all started with a seemingly ordinary interaction at a bar mitzvah when a friend asked Ripa how she was doing. Unexpectedly, she burst into tears. Reflecting on that moment, Ripa chuckled and said, “I started sobbing, and I wasn’t entirely sure why.” Recognizing that she needed help, her friend suggested seeing a therapist.
Therapy proved to be a transformative experience for Ripa. She gained deep insights into herself and finally understood why she struggled to accept success. This newfound self-awareness shed light on her ongoing battle with social anxiety disorder, a topic she explores further in her upcoming book, “Live Wire: Long-Winded Short Stories.”
In her memoir, Ripa candidly shares the daily challenges she faces due to social anxiety. She emphasizes that just because she appears extroverted on television, it doesn’t mean she’s the same way in real life. As she puts it, “They refer to it as acting for this reason.”
But therapy isn’t the only aspect Ripa delves into. She also admits that she finds solace in shedding tears in the shower. It’s these honest revelations that create a strong connection between Ripa and her audience.
During the podcast episode, Ripa was joined by Tyler Perry, who shared his perspective on therapy. He revealed how Meghan Markle had spoken to him as if he were a therapist during her challenging split from the royal family. Perry also emphasized the healing power of writing, which he learned from his friend Oprah.
By openly discussing her personal struggles, Ripa aims to motivate others to seek help when they need it and raise awareness about the difficulties of mental health. Her sincerity and authenticity inspire all of us to prioritize our mental well-being.
If Ripa’s story and her willingness to seek therapy have resonated with you, remember that asking for help is a brave step towards healing and self-discovery. You are never alone on this journey.
