Tamra Judge said she considered checking into a “mental health facility” before discovering she’s on the spectrum. She also shared why she started therapy and why she now regrets publicly revealing her neurodiversity.
After her first therapy session, the Real Housewives of Orange County star shared that her therapist told her she’s on the spectrum. Certain fans have questioned the revelation, claiming she’s trying to escape blame for offensive comments she made on the show.
“I started therapy because this year had been really hard on me,” wrote Tamra in an October 15 Instagram post. “I started feeling really insecure, I was having intrusive thoughts, and I didn’t wanna leave my house unless I had to. I even considered just being admitted into a mental health facility.”
“In my conversations with my therapist, who I’ve known for years, we talked about a lot over the course of two hours. And she told me that many of the things about me — like how I process information, my sensory issues, my social anxiety, my aversion to eye contact with new people, my not wanting to be out of my routine, etc. — were all signs of being on the spectrum,” she continued. “Now, ‘On the spectrum’ it’s such a broad term. I don’t really understand it fully, and my therapist told me more evaluation was needed.”
“But when I sat down at the mic to record my podcast 15 minutes later and my head was spinning from what she had said. I had no time to process things, or even talk to my family — I was just back at work. And I was so emotional, I just blurted it out,” said Tamra. “Afterwards, my instinct was to have it removed. But I’m used to being so open with everything in my life, I thought against it. Now, I wish I had. I just want to take people through the journey with me as I’ve always done, but I realize now I spoke too soon publicly.”
Tamra said it’s been “horrible” to process the “onslaught of negative comments.”
“If you know me, you know I don’t like to look weak or play the victim. I also hate labels, just as much as I hate excuses. But I’m working on myself — not a TV show; to be a better person for me and the people around me. This isn’t some storyline. It’s my real life,” she said. “I have past trauma that is deep and painful. This is something I’ve suppressed for 15 years. But I’m finally getting the help I need, and I’m proud of myself for that.”
“So as much as I appreciate the amazing people who reached out, I think it’s best to move forward more privately until I get to a better mental space,” she added. “My mental health is just not strong enough where I can be judged and hated on right now. Yes, I’m admitting I’m weak. And I’m okay with that right now.”
Bravo stars then expressed support in the comments.
“You got this ❤️,” wrote Melissa Gorga.
“Love you, Tam ❤️,” added Teddi Mellencamp.
Dorinda Medley also shared a heart emoji.
Image credit: @melissagorga/Instagram, @teddimellencamp/Instagram, @dorindamedley/Instagram
On her Instagram Stories, Tamra shared another update.
“Even though I check almost all the boxes it’s an on going evaluation and I will continue to figure out more through therapy,” she said, via @tasteof_reality on Instagram. “Thank you for all your DM’s. Not sure I’m ready for this ride.”
