Erika Jayne Opens Up About Suicidal Thoughts Amid Tom Girardi Scandal

Erika Jayne Admits to Thinking About Suicide During Fallout of Tom Girardi Scandal Why Am I Here 496

Todd Williamson/Bravo

Erika Jayne opened up about how she felt mentally amidst the legal issues involving her estranged husband Tom Girardi.

During her two-part Bravo special Bet It All on Blonde, which aired on Wednesday, March 6, the 52-year-old shared, "There was nothing hopeful on the horizon for years. That’s when you’re like, ‘Well why am I here?’ I thought about taking my own life many times."

Erika was involved in a fraud and embezzlement lawsuit in December 2020 along with Tom, 84. The lawsuit accused the disgraced lawyer and his then-firm, Girardi and Keese, of misusing $2 million in settlement funds intended for the victims of a plane crash. (Erika had filed for divorce from Tom one month earlier, but the divorce is still pending.)

Despite vehemently denying any involvement, Erika has faced scrutiny on multiple seasons of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. Speculation has arisen regarding how much she knew about Tom's wrongdoing.

During Wednesday's docuseries, Erika remembered facing constant judgement and accusations. She felt like she had to defend herself every single day.

She also opened up about her struggles with suicidal thoughts to her son, Tommy Zizzo, whom she shares with her ex-husband Thomas Zizzo.

Erika Jayne Admits to Thinking About Suicide During Fallout of Tom Girardi Scandal Why Am I Here 497

Charles Sykes/Bravo

When I talked to my son, I told him that I didn't want to be in this situation. He responded by saying, "That's great, but here's what you're going to do. You're going to stand your ground, fight with all your might, prove them wrong, and then we can talk. But for now, keep fighting."

Bet It All on Blonde focused on the 30 days before Erika's Las Vegas residency of the same name. However, she also opened up about how Tom's legal troubles have affected her life in recent years.

She mentioned during the docuseries that the past three years have been tough with divorce, competency hearings, indictments, and losing everything. Most of the discussions about Tom happened in the first of the two episodes.

In another part of the show, Erika mentioned that she still feels like she's facing consequences for Tom's errors.

"I don’t feel like I have my own freedom since I still carry the last name," she expressed. "I've put in a lot of effort to take control of my life and start over, and that's what having residency means to me. But will I ever be able to break free from this?"

If you or someone you know is facing difficulties or in a crisis, support is accessible. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.

Editor's P/S:

Erika Jayne's candid confessions about her mental health struggles amidst her estranged husband's legal turmoil are both heartbreaking and alarming. The relentless scrutiny and accusations she has faced have taken a profound toll on her well-being, driving her to contemplate suicide. It is crucial to remember that mental health challenges can affect anyone, regardless of their circumstances or wealth.

The article also highlights the ripple effects of financial and legal issues on mental health. Erika's experience underscores the importance of seeking support during difficult times. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) provides free and confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Remember, you are not alone, and help is available.