Monique Fontana opens up on how Patrick Cripps helps her mental health battle

Monique Fontana has opened up on her debilitating mental illness, revealing how her AFL star partner can tell when she’s struggling.

Monique Fontana has opened up on her mental health battle. Picture: Jake Nowakowski

Monique Fontana has opened up about her battle with a debilitating mental illness and her recovery with the help of partner, Carlton co-captain Patrick Cripps.

Fontana, who is studying vet technology, revealed last year she suffers from obsessive compulsive disorder, which resulted in her spending two weeks in hospital.

She has since been having regular therapy and is speaking about her experience to help others.

“A lot of people think you live this glamorous life and your partner plays football,’’ she said.

“Everyone has their own unique situation and you are criticised and there are different sides.

Monique Fontana says dating a footballer is not a glamorous life. Picture: Getty Images

There’s such a stigma as well. I’m happy to be open about it, I reckon there’s a lot who suffer with OCD traits but you get too embarrassed and don’t get diagnosed.

“It’s nice to have a diagnosis. It can be really debilitating and exhausting. It’s good to get it managed and under control. I do dialectical behavioural therapy and that’s kind of been a life saver.”

Fontana and Cripps have just returned to Melbourne after spending a few months in Perth catching up with family.

Fontana also practises mindfulness, yoga and pilates at Upstate Studios. Upstate has just launched its sixth studio in Fitzroy, as well as its own athletic range.

“The last time I was in hospital was probably at the start of the year after Christmas,’’ Fontana said.

Patrick Cripps and Monique Fontana. Picture: Jake Nowakowski

“I had a stint and it was helpful but I need to be consistent with my care.

“I came to the realisation ‘you can do this’. I was reluctant with therapy because I thought talking can’t help, but it does.

“(Patrick) is very emotionally intelligent and can pick up when I’m suffering.

“He’s a relaxed person himself. He’ll book me a psych and he’s proactive in that way. It really helps to have a supportive partner. He’s doing a postgrad in psychology and he’s enjoying learning more, it’s something he’s passionate about.

“There are a lot of people suffering with mental health and it’s good to spread the awareness.

“Even if it helps one person it’s worth it.

“People don’t treat it like it’s a health condition but it’s just as important as any other illness.”