Former Miss Universe Philippines Rabiya Mateo disclosed that she was diagnosed with major depressive disorder with anxious distress last year.
On Saturday, Jan. 17, Rabiya opened up in a Facebook post about a time she described as a daily struggle to survive. The beauty queen and actress shared details of her diagnosis and treatment, including undergoing several rounds of medication.
She also revealed that she left the country for three months to avoid situations that could trigger her condition.
“I had several rounds of medication. I left the country for three months so I won’t get triggered by people who have no idea what I’ve been going through. Every day was a struggle to survive,” Rabiya wrote.
She then said she continues to battle the condition and emphasized that recovery has not been easy.
Rabiya also reflected on the recent death of Emman Atienza, saying it deeply affected her and encouraged her to keep going. Witnessing the grief of Emman’s family, especially Kuya Kim Atienza, inspired her not to give up.
She ended her post by urging people to practice kindness, saying words can deeply affect those struggling with depression.
Rabiya Mateo was crowned Miss Universe Philippines in 2020 and has since appeared in television projects.
