As Alicia tells WHO, she is opening up about her depression in order to help others.
Three days after Georgie applied for a coveted spot on My Kitchen Rules last year, she threw the news over her shoulder to Alicia, her sister and prospective team- mate. “She said it as a passing line, ‘Oh by the way, I’ve entered us into My Kitchen Rules,’ ” says Alicia.
While Georgie was “a superfan” of the show, Alicia had never watched a full episode, but when they got news of their successful bid Alicia realised the heat was on. “I was thinking, ‘Oh shit, what do I do now?’” she recalls. “I was very aware of the fact that it would be the Australian public judging me and judging our food and judging our behaviour.”
She was also aware of something else when learning of their good fortune—“I wasn’t ecstatic ... I should have had a much greater reaction,” says Alicia, 30, revealing to WHO that an inability “to experience any real excitement is an odd side effect” of the medication that’s helped her finally cope with the depression she kept secret for up to seven years.
The sisters, who scored a perfect 10 from judges Manu Feildel and Pete Evans for their prawn and shiitake ravioli with seafood broth entree at their instant restaurant on the Feb. 19 episode, have strengthened their bond through cooking and living together for the show. “Anytime that I have been feeling particularly low or concerned about my behaviour, I’d discuss it with her," Alicia says.
If you or someone you know needs help, you can speak confidentially to a trained counsellor 24 hours a day at headspace.org.au or Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800.
You can also contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
My Kitchen Rules airs Mon.-Thurs., 7.30 PM, on Seven.
