Maci Bookout's Heartbreaking Support for Ex Ryan Edwards During Struggles - A Tale of Love and Redemption

The US Sun / MEGA

Maci Bookout will always care for her ex Ryan Edwards — particularly when he is dealing with significant mental health problems.

In a sneak peek of Teen Mom: The Next Chapter airing on Wednesday, July 19, Maci, 31, has a conversation with her troubled ex. She discovers that he was placed under "suicide watch" after being arrested. Ryan, 35, who is the father of their 14-year-old son Bentley, has a history of drug possession and other legal issues.

In the preview clip, Maci expresses her surprise at the current situation and acknowledges the positive impact of time and therapy on their relationship. Having their ups and downs played out on MTV for over ten years, she speaks to the cameras about her experience.

Ryan opens up emotionally about his challenges to Maci, prompting her to address his suicidal thoughts.

"When you were arrested recently, they mentioned that you were placed on suicide watch. That really alarmed me," she shares. "You should really seek help and talk to someone about it."

Ryan asked, "What should someone say?"

"You should admit that you're going through a tough time," Maci suggested. "It would deeply impact many individuals if you were not around. I prefer dealing with your annoyances if it means you're still here," she added, making Ryan chuckle while he wiped his tears.

She adds: “So next time, just call me.”

The Teen Mom: The Next Chapter preview is released shortly after Maci revealed to us that Ryan has formed a stronger bond with Bentley since his time in jail. (Ryan was sentenced to jail in April for a DUI, possession of a controlled substance, and harassing his estranged wife Mackenzie Edwards, who filed for divorce in February.)

"It's honestly surprising, but even though he's in jail, he makes an effort to consistently be there for Bentley and communicate with him more than ever before," Maci shared with us on July 11.

Maci Bookout Courtesy of Maci Bookout/Instagram

She remarked, "Despite Ryan's regrettable choices and the resulting repercussions, I am relieved to witness his continued commitment to attending and making contact, as he had previously been inclined to cease all efforts." According to The Sun, Ryan was discharged from prison on Tuesday, July 18, and directed to undergo rehabilitation.

Ryan's appearance on Teen Mom: The Next Chapter follows his and his family's dismissal from the show in March 2021. Earlier this year, he made a brief appearance on a Teen Mom: Family Reunion episode, shedding tears over his disconnected bond with Bentley and expressing his desire for a closer relationship with him.

Apart from Bentley, Ryan is also a parent to two children that he shares with Mackenzie.

If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or considering suicide, call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.