Rebecca Gibney Steps Back from Social Media
Rebecca Gibney, the acclaimed actress known for her role in Packed To The Rafters, has decided to take a break from social media. This decision comes just a week after she publicly shared her recent diagnosis of ADHD and autism. In a heartfelt post on Instagram, the 61-year-old star expressed her need to step away from the constant stream of digital content.
“I’ve been spending way too much time staring at my phone looking at either bad news, products I don’t want, snippets from people’s lives that I don’t know, and apart from the funnies – which we all need – I’m finding it all a waste of very precious time,” she wrote.
Gibney emphasized that she has been missing out on the present moment, and she wants to reconnect with her husband, her dogs, and herself. Her message was accompanied by a photo of her two dogs and footage of a serene lake, symbolizing her desire for peace and reflection.
She also took the opportunity to address some of the negative comments she received following her announcement. “If you don’t know the full story of someone’s life – please don’t make assumptions or fire off petty comments,” she warned. Gibney expressed gratitude for the positive response but acknowledged that not everyone was supportive.
A Life Marked by Challenges
Gibney shared that much of her life had been shaped by personal challenges. She revealed that she had lived most of her life misdiagnosed with severe anxiety for 45 years. She was raised in a home with extreme domestic violence and has struggled with depression.
“Alas there has also been a little backlash so I just wanted to say to the people that responded with ‘get over it,’ ‘it’s not cancer,’ ‘stop jumping on the bandwagon’ and ‘nobody cares’ – just a wee word of advice,” she said.
Her intention is to encourage others who may be going through similar struggles, emphasizing that they are not alone.
Support from Fans and Fellow Celebrities
Gibney’s post received an overwhelming amount of support from her followers. Singer Natalie Bassingthwaighte commented: “Babe you are the biggest shining light and it’s because of your vulnerability that allows other including myself to feel ok to share too.”
Media personality Melissa Hoyer added: “Look after YOU – sending love, love & more love.”
Gibney made headlines last month when she announced her ADHD and autism diagnosis during an interview with The Australian Women’s Weekly. She spoke about the emotional journey of coming to terms with her condition, particularly after experiencing panic attacks and masking her true self for years.
Understanding ADHD and Autism
ADHD is a behavioral condition characterized by inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. It typically appears at an early age and can affect how a person communicates, interacts with others, and processes information. Autism is considered a spectrum, meaning the severity varies among individuals.
Symptoms of ADHD include:
- Constant fidgeting
- Poor concentration
- Excessive movement or talking
- Acting without thinking
- Little or no sense of danger
- Careless mistakes
- Forgetfulness
- Difficulty organizing tasks
- Inability to listen or carry out instructions
Most cases are diagnosed between six and 12 years old, although adults can also suffer from ADHD. The exact cause is unclear, but genetic mutations are thought to play a role. Premature babies and those with epilepsy or brain damage are more at risk.
While there is no cure, a combination of medication and therapy is usually recommended to manage symptoms and improve daily functioning.
A Growing Trend Among Australian Celebrities
Rebecca is part of a growing number of Australian celebrities who have been diagnosed with ADHD later in life. Mamamia co-founder Mia Freeman received her ADHD diagnosis at age 49, while actress Sigrid Thornton found out she had the same condition at 65. Media personality Em Rusciano was diagnosed with ADHD and autism at age 43, and feminist author Clementine Ford discovered she had ADHD at 41.
