‘It was really difficult’: MasterChef Australia star Khanh Ong opens up about his battle with depression during the Melbourne lockdowns
MasterChef Australia‘s Khanh Ong has encouraged those suffering from depression, isolation or loneliness to reach out to others for support.
Speaking to The Daily Telegraph on Saturday, the chef revealed he knew exactly what it felt like feeling ‘sad’ and needing ‘a little attention’ – particularity after filming finished on the 2020 cooking series.
‘I came off filming MasterChef and I was on top of the world and then I was told I wasn’t allowed to see my friends or my family and I couldn’t leave my home,’ he said.
‘Don’t be too scared’: MasterChef Australia’s Khanh Ong (pictured), 28, has encouraged those suffering from depression, isolation or loneliness to reach out to others for support
‘That was really difficult. I started to then realise what I cared about.’
The Vietnamese food guru, who spent a majority of his time in lockdown cooking and speaking with loved ones via Zoom or the phone, added he let his family and friends know when he felt down.
‘Don’t be too scared to admit that you may be feeling down or lonely or isolated. It’s really important to reach out otherwise you are dealing with it alone,’ he said.
Since starring on the twelfth series of the Australian cooking game show, Khanh has focused on rebuilding his restaurant, The George on Collins.
Open and honest: Speaking to The Daily Telegraph on Saturday, Khanh revealed he knew exactly what it felt like feeling ‘sad’ and needing ‘a little attention’ – particularity after filming finished on the 2020 cooking series
Much like many other eateries and businesses in Melbourne, The George on Collins was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and Victoria’s multiple lockdowns.
Things appear to be moving up for Khanh, however, with the former reality TV star looking at opening a second venue in potentially the South Yarra area.
He has also been regularly updating his followers on Instagram of his movements, recipe creations and outings.
Who is he? Khanh rose to stardom on the 2018 season of MasterChef Australia, where he fell just short of the grand finale in season 10
Khanh rose to stardom on the 2018 season of MasterChef Australia, where he fell just short of the grand finale in season 10.
He then appeared on MasterChef Australia: Back to Win in 2020, before being sent home after losing a fine dining challenge.
For confidential support call the Lifeline 24-hour crisis support on 13 11 14. For further support contact Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 and MensLine Australia 1300 78 99 78.
Second appearance: Khanh then appeared on MasterChef Australia: Back to Win in 2020, before being sent home after losing a fine dining challenge