Bindi Irwin announces social media break, citing family and mental health
Bindi Irwin announced she's taking a break from social media.
The 22-year-old posted a statement on Instagram regarding the break on Monday, citing her desire to spend more time with family as her reasoning.
"Hi guys, Just a note to say thank you for your support. I'm taking a break from social media and most of my work in the public eye for a month to be with my beautiful daughter and my wonderful family," Irwin, who welcomed her daughter Grace Warrior with husband Chandler Powell back in March of this year, wrote.
"I feel tremendously grateful to share our life and conservation work with you but I need some time to focus on the happiness that is my family (both human and animal). You can keep up with our adventures by following my family and Australia Zoo on social media," Irwin added.
Irwin also took the time to thank people for sharing their mental health stories and underscore the importance of discussion on such issues.
"Recently, I've had many people reaching out to share their own stories of working hard to protect their mental health," she said. "Thank you for sharing and speaking your truth. To my friends who are dealing with depression, anxiety and other battles every day - I see you. These issues are very real and deserve to be discussed and addressed."
The television personality also offered her followers some advice and words of encouragement.
"Surround yourself with the light of people who genuinely care about you and will support you during the good times and the hard times," she said. "Remember there are helplines available. Mental health deserves more understanding and support instead of being dismissed or patronised. You are absolutely worthy of love and kindness."
Irwin's husband reposted the photo she used in the announcement and voiced his support.
"You inspire me with your unwavering kindness and your ability to stand up for what is right," Powell wrote. "You are the strongest and most beautiful person inside and out. Grace has an amazing mama to look up to."
The post comes just hours after Irwin shared a photo of a quote by author and military veteran Steve Maraboli about mental health: "I don't think people realize how much strength it takes to pull yourself out of a dark place mentally. So if you've done that today, or any day, I'm proud of you."
Yesterday Irwin also shared a touching Father's Day tribute in honor of her father, Steve Irwin -- who died in 2006 after being stabbed by a stingray barb in Australia -- as well as her husband and father-in-law.
