Tamra Judge Responds After Severe Backlash Following Autism Spectrum Diagnosis ‘This Isn’t Some Storyline’

Tamra Judge Responds After Severe Backlash Following Autism Spectrum Diagnosis ‘This Isn’t Some Storyline’

Real Housewives of Orange County star Tamra Judge is speaking out after receiving backlash for publicly revealing she’s “on the spectrum.” The reality star, known for being unfiltered, took to Instagram on October 15 to clarify her decision to share her diagnosis and address the overwhelming response she’s received.

Tamra’s Honest Admission About Her Diagnosis

In her lengthy Instagram post, the 57-year-old RHOC cast member explained that she began therapy after a particularly difficult year. “I started therapy because this year had been really hard on me. I started feeling really insecure, I was having intrusive thoughts, and I didn’t wanna leave my house unless I had to,” she wrote. Tamra also admitted that she had even considered being admitted to a mental health facility to deal with her struggles.

It was during these therapy sessions, with a therapist she’s, “known for years,” that her therapist suggested Tamra may be on the autism spectrum. “She told me that many of the things about me — how I process information, my sensory issues, my social anxiety, my aversion to eye contact with new people, my not wanting to be out of my routine — were all signs of being on the spectrum,” Tamra shared.

Despite this revelation, Tamra acknowledged that the diagnosis was still new to her.

“Now, ‘On the spectrum’ is such a broad term. I don’t really understand it fully, and my therapist told me more evaluation was needed.”

Why Tamra Chose to Share Her Diagnosis

Tamra revealed her diagnosis publicly during an emotional moment on her podcast, Two T’s in a Pod, which she co-hosts with Teddi Mellencamp. In her Instagram post, she explained why she chose to be so open, despite feeling unprepared.

“I had no time to process things, or even talk to my family — I was just back at work,” she confessed. “And I was so emotional, I just blurted it out.” Initially, Tamra considered having the comment removed from the podcast but ultimately decided against it. “I’m used to being so open with everything in my life, I thought against it,” she added.

However, Tamra admits that sharing the diagnosis so soon brought its own challenges.

“Now, I wish I had,” she continued, referencing the backlash she’s faced. “I realized I spoke too soon publicly, and that processing this with such an onslaught of negative comments has been horrible.”

‘This Isn’t Some Storyline, It’s My Real Life’

Addressing critics who suggested she was using her diagnosis for attention or as part of a Real Housewives storyline, Tamra was quick to shut down that narrative. “If you know me, you know I don’t like to look weak or play the victim,” she wrote.

“But I’m working on myself — not a TV show; to be a better person for me and the people around me. This isn’t some storyline. It’s my real life.”

Tamra also reflected on her past, admitting that she’s been dealing with “deep and painful” trauma that she’s suppressed for over 15 years. Despite the negativity she’s received, she emphasized how important it is for her to finally get the help she needs. “I’m proud of myself for that,” she said.

Taking a Step Back

While Tamra has spent more than 15 years with her life playing out on camera, she acknowledged that this is a moment where she needs to prioritize her mental health. “As much as I appreciate the amazing people who reached out, I think it’s best to move forward more privately until I get to a better mental space,” she wrote, admitting that her mental health isn’t strong enough to handle public judgment and criticism at this time.

“Yes, I’m admitting I’m weak. And I’m okay with that right now,” she concluded.

Tamra’s Journey on ‘RHOC’

Tamra first joined The Real Housewives of Orange County cast in 2007 during Season 3, where she quickly became known for her sharp tongue and candid moments. After serving as a main cast member for 12 seasons, she took a brief hiatus following Season 14 but returned for Season 17, where she continues to star alongside Heather Dubrow, Shannon Beador, and others. As Season 18 airs on Bravo, Tamra’s openness about her diagnosis and personal struggles adds another layer to her journey on the reality series.

Tamra Judge’s transparency about her mental health and autism spectrum diagnosis serves as a reminder that even reality stars need space to process and heal. While she may have received backlash, her decision to share her truth is something she’s owning with strength and vulnerability.

The Real Housewives of Orange County continues to air on Bravo, with new episodes featuring Tamra’s journey every Wednesday.

 

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