Jessica Rowe recalls struggle with depression after quitting Studio 10

Former Studio 10 presenter Jessica Rowe has revealed she struggled with depression after quitting the show.

Three years after she abruptly quit Studio 10, former TV presenter Jessica Rowe says life is simpler and more family-oriented than it was before.

The mother-of-two recently told Confidential that while there have been brief moments of boredom and depression since she departed Studio 10, she’s never been happier.

“Life is all about reinvention. I’ve embraced a slower pace and enjoy choosing meaningful work that brings me joy and works around my family,” Rowe said.

Jessica Rowe at the Marie Claire breakfast for International Women’s Day at Quay restaurant on Monday. Picture: Richard Dobson

“However the past year, like for so many families, has been tricky at times. There were moments when I was restless, depressed and bored because life felt like it had shrunk.

“I wasn’t learning a new language, writing a novel or making banana bread. It was a struggle to even return emails. However now I’m more grateful for those small moments of wonder and focus on what matters most. Family, friends, cats, Daphne our puppy and eating chocolate in bed.”

Rowe, 50, is married to Channel 9 news presenter Peter Overton and the couple have two daughters Allegra, 13, and Giselle, 11.

Jessica Rowe, Peter Overton and their daughters Giselle and Allegra. Picture: Adam Yip

Jessica Rowe.

Last year, Rowe said she left Studio 10 to spend more time with her family.

“I wanted to be more present for my daughters and do work I could fit around my family,” she said on Instagram.

“At the time people gave me quite a bit of slack about it and said it’s old fashioned. My choice was about leaning in for my family. “I feel lighter and happier that I’m actually present. I was running on empty, juggling so much … thinking I had to have this great career, be a good mum and wife.”

The self-proclaimed “crap housewife” has built a following on social media by sharing very simple meal ideas with her followers.

Tanya Plibersek, Bruna Papandrea, Nicky Briger, Jessica Mauboy, Grace Tame and Jess Hill at the Marie Claire breakfast for International Women’s Day at Quay restaurant. Picture: Richard Dobson

Phoebe Burgess the Marie Claire breakfast for International Women’s Day at Quay restaurant. Picture: Richard Dobson

Jesinta Franklin at the Marie Claire breakfast for International Women’s Day at Quay restaurant. Picture: Richard Dobson

She recently became an ambassador for retailer Bing Lee, which she credits with taking the pressure off of cooking for the family.

“I can’t stand cooking. It’s so tedious especially since you have to come up with something edible every night,” she said.

“I’m a big believer in playing to your strong points and cooking definitely isn’t mine. So look for short cuts and simple meals that you know the family will eat.

“That’s why it’s such a joy to be a Cooking Ambassador for Bing Lee. They’ve shown me all these appliances that are easy to use and make cooking a meal much simpler and more successful. I’ve recently joined the Airfryer Appreciation Society and this sparkly appliance is making cooking chips, schnitzel and sausages a breeze. No more smoke alarm risks.”