Popular Fox 2 Detroit morning anchor, Amy Andrews, took to social media to inform her fans and followers why she has been absent from the program over the last few months and it’s equal parts heartbreaking and inspiring. Andrews revealed that she took a few months off work in order to do battle with mental health issues. Her openness when it comes to fighting these illnesses is such a wonderful example of removing the stigma around mental health and showing those who suffer from these problems there’s nothing to be ashamed of in being open about it. In fact, being open about it has the potential to save lives.
According to The U.S. Sun, Andrews got on X and wrote, “My severe depression and anxiety has returned in full force. I’ve stepped away from the anchor desk temporarily to battle with all I have so I can come back and spend my mornings with you. Much love always…”
Andrews has been a vocal advocate for mental health awareness and has been open with followers about her struggles. Andrews previously told followers in May 2022 she would be taking a “few weeks off from anchoring… to deal with some health issues,” the Deadline Detroit reported. She returned to work the following month.
“I finally had to take a step back and address it so I could move forward. We never know what others are dealing with so always try to be kind and don’t ever be ashamed to admit that you may need a little help,” she shared in the post. Back in 2019, Andrews participated in a charity walk that took place at Detroit’s riverfront in order to support the work being done by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. The morning news anchor was a presenter and delivered a speech concerning her friend and colleague, Jessica Starr, who committed suicide the previous year.
Another report from the folks at AOL — yes, shockingly, AOL is still around — detailed how in June 2022, Andrews openly discussed on social media that she was coming back to work after a lengthy break to deal with her anxiety and depression, issuing a heartfelt thank you to all who supported her. Dealing with mental health struggles can be a source of humiliation for many, but it shouldn’t be. Everyone has problems at some point in their lives, with many having severe issues they deal with off and on for years on end.
There’s nothing to be ashamed of. Nothing at all.
Andrews graduated from several universities, including Indiana University, Oakland university, and Specs Howard School of Media Arts. She’s also worked for television stations located in California, Colorado, and Nevada, before becoming part of the Fox 2 Detroit team back in 2011.
If you suffer from anxiety and depression, please do not hesitate to consult with professionals in the mental health field. Help is always available. Never keep this battle to yourself. Many doctors and therapists exist to help guide people out of the darkness that consumes their minds. Be sure to make use of those resources.