Kandi Burruss opened up about her mental health struggles as she navigates her divorce from Todd Tucker.
The Real Housewives of Atlanta star shared an update with fans through an Instagram post on December 3. The 49-year-old confirmed to PEOPLE last month that she and Tucker are separating after 11 years of marriage.
“This is what I look like when I’m going through something. I show up for my family, I show up for my friends, I show up to handle my business, & I show up with a smile, all while on the inside I’m emotionally broken.”
Burruss shared a montage of recent photos showing her at various events and gatherings. She explained that in every image, she was “internally dealing with something life-changing.”
Most people around her “had no clue of my inner stress & sadness,” she wrote.
The reality star defended her approach to handling personal struggles. She said this wasn’t about being fake but about how she processes difficult situations.
“I internalize and deal with it alone. I am the poster child for the saying, ‘Check on your strong friend because you never know what they are going through.'”
Burruss rarely shares such personal content publicly. She said an old song she wrote years ago perfectly captured her current feelings, which prompted her to open up.
Divorce Details
Burruss announced her decision to divorce Tucker in an exclusive statement to PEOPLE last month.
“After deep thought and a lot of prayer, I’ve made the decision to move forward with a divorce. This is a difficult and emotional time, but my focus remains on protecting my peace, being the best mother I can be, and co-parenting with love and respect.”
The couple welcomed two children together during their marriage.
A source told PEOPLE that the couple “had been having marriage troubles for a while now.” The source revealed that Burruss discovered Tucker “had been talking to other women behind her back.”
“She had no idea,” the source added.
Representatives for Burruss haven’t provided additional comments. Tucker hasn’t responded to requests for comment from PEOPLE.
Moving Forward
In her original statement about the split, Burruss said she’s “stepping into a new chapter pouring into my work, my family, and my own growth.”
She asked for privacy during this transition period.
“I’m grateful to everyone who supported us throughout the years, and I ask for privacy, grace and understanding as we navigate this transition with our family,” Burruss said.
The Real Housewives of Atlanta veteran has built a successful entertainment and business empire beyond reality television. She’s focusing on her various ventures while prioritizing her children’s well-being during the divorce proceedings.
