Teresa Giudice's Daughter Reveals Bipolar Disorder and 4 Other Diagnoses After Losing Her Best Friend
Teresa Giudice's daughter Milania has opened up about her mental health struggles after losing her childhood best friend, sharing five mental health conditions as she seeks treatment following what she described as an exceptionally difficult summer.
The 20-year-old, whose mother stars in The Real Housewives of New Jersey, shared the update in an Instagram video on 12 October. She disclosed that she has bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
'I am not ashamed of any of my mental health disorders,' Milania said, adding that she was receiving care at a treatment centre.
Her disclosure comes months after the death of her best friend, Victoria Zardoya, who died following an accident in July. Milania said several difficult events had occurred within a short period, leaving her trying to process what had happened.
'This Summer Hit Me Like a Bus'
Milania acknowledged that her recent social media activity had not reflected the person she wanted to be, apologising to those who had witnessed her struggles online.
'Social media is like an onion: You see layers of people's lives,' she said. 'You guys, quite frankly, have been seeing the worst worst times of my life.'
She also recognised the difficulty of navigating personal challenges while living in the public eye.
Her update followed a September incident at Tampa International Airport involving Milania, her mother and her older sister, Gia Giudice. Footage of the family interacting with police officers circulated online, prompting renewed public attention.
In the aftermath, a representative for Milania said she was surrounded by loved ones and receiving professional care. Teresa subsequently asked the public to prioritise her daughter's well-being and respect her privacy during a vulnerable period.
What Do Her Diagnoses Mean?
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterised by significant changes in mood, energy and activity levels. Episodes may involve mania or hypomania and, in some cases, depression. The condition is treatable, although management often requires ongoing professional support.
Depression can affect mood, motivation, sleep, concentration and everyday functioning. Anxiety disorders involve persistent or excessive fear and worry that can interfere with daily life.
PTSD can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Symptoms may include intrusive memories, avoidance, heightened alertness and changes in mood or thinking.
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition associated with persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity or impulsivity that affect functioning in multiple areas of life.
Although these conditions can occur together, their symptoms and treatment needs differ. A person's diagnoses alone cannot explain every aspect of their behaviour or establish what caused a particular incident.
Grief, Treatment and the Road Ahead
Losing a close friend can profoundly affect emotional well-being. Grief varies, with no single timetable for processing a significant loss.
However, bereavement and mental health conditions are distinct. Professional assessment can help determine whether additional treatment is needed.
Depending on the diagnosis, care may involve therapy, medication and support from trusted people.
Milania said she wanted to work on herself.
'I want to do better,' she said.
Milania said she wanted to continue working on herself and do better as she navigates her mental health struggles and the loss of her friend.