A New Chapter for Rebecca Gibney
Rebecca Gibney, a well-known actress from the show Packed to the Rafters, has taken a step back from social media after sharing her diagnosis of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). At 61 years old, she made the decision to take a break from online platforms to focus on reconnecting with her husband, her dogs, and herself.
In a detailed post, she expressed that she had stopped fully living in the present and needed time to refocus. She also acknowledged the overwhelming support she received from her followers following her announcement about her diagnoses. However, she also faced some negative comments from trolls and critics who questioned her decision to speak out.
“Hello friends, it’s time for a wee break from all things SM,” she wrote. “I have stopped fully living in the present and I need to reconnect with my hubby, my dogs and myself. Thank you for the overwhelmingly supportive response to my recent post around my ADHD/ASD diagnosis.”
She addressed those who posted negative comments, including messages like “get over it,” “it’s not cancer,” and “nobody cares.” Her message was clear: if people don’t know the full story of someone’s life, they shouldn’t make assumptions or send petty remarks.
“I have lived most of my life misdiagnosed with severe anxiety (45 years of it). I was raised in a home with extreme domestic violence and I have suffered depression, so to tell someone to ‘get over it’ is really not helpful.”
Gibney shared her story to encourage others who might be struggling and feel alone. She emphasized the importance of understanding and empathy, especially when it comes to mental health issues. She also expressed gratitude for the help she has received and is now implementing advice to manage her challenges better.
Her fans and followers responded with words of support. Singer and actress Natalie Bassingthwaighte praised her, calling her “the biggest shining light” in a comment underneath her post.
Gibney disclosed her diagnosis in March 2026 after consulting with three psychiatrists. Speaking about the experience in an interview, she described it as emotionally challenging. “It’s been hard. It’s been very emotional. I’m still coming to terms with it because it’s answered a lot of questions from my past – my panic attacks, my years of masking, which started obviously at a very early age.”
She reflected on how knowing about her diagnosis could have changed her past. “There’s that slight mourning – gosh, if I’d known this 40, 50 years ago, would I have gone through all the stuff that I went through? Maybe it would have made my high school years easier because, you know, I did have a lot of mental health struggles.”
Supporting Mental Health
If you or someone you know is in need of support, there are resources available. Contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue. In case of an emergency, dial Triple Zero (000).
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