Aussie model Annalise Braakensiek's concerning social media posts before tragic death
In the weeks leading up to her death, Australian model and actress Annalise Braakensiek shared several concerning Instagram posts, saying “everything seems to feel twisted and upside down at the moment”.
The Sydney-based model, actress and designer was found dead in her Potts Point unit on Sunday afternoon after concerns were raised for her welfare. Her death is not being treated as suspicious, police said.
The 46-year-old, who was best known for her roles on shows including Fat Pizza and Home and Away, was also extremely active on social media, constantly sharing beach shots and links to her organic recipes page.
So when days continued to pass with no Facebook activity, one fan raised his concerns for her welfare writing: “been over a week since you posted, hope you’re ok”.
On December 15, Ms Braakensiek spoke of the difficulties involved in moving away from her long-time home in Bondi following a divorce from her stockbroker husband.
“Everything seems to feel twisted and upside down at the moment,” she wrote.
“Life’s challenges have been deep, dark, difficult, demanding and down right scary lately.
“I know it’s good for me and ultimately all the pain and hard times are going to be a blessing.”
A post shared by Annalise Braakensiek (@annalisewithlove) on Dec 14, 2018 at 10:18am PST
One month earlier, she spoke of her role as an ambassador for suicide prevention charity R U OK.
“…mental health has so so many misconceptions, criticism, misunderstandings and false judgments still!! We have to break the silence on mental health because it happens to the best of us. (And in the worst situations),” Braakensiek posted alongside an R U OK image.
“Thank you from the bottom of my heart to all of you who have helped me though my dark clouds… now I’m strong enough to help my loved ones who unfortunately are not in the best place right now. But we will get through this!”
Ms Braakensiek also worked closely with the Starlight Foundation, Cancer Council and Olivia Newton-John Cancer Centre.
Australian actor and fellow Fat Pizza star Rob Shehadi and celebrity agent Max Markson led a series of tributes to the model on social media.
So sad and gutted to hear about the passing of Annalise Braakensiek, she was an amazing person. I will always cherish the great memories we had on the set of Fat Pizza and on tour. God rest your soul Annalise 😔 pic.twitter.com/2BBXJhLGiZ
— Rob Shehadie (@robshehadie) January 6, 2019
Annalise Braakensiek R.I.P.
— Max Markson (@maxmarkson) January 6, 2019
“So saddened to hear of your passing this morning. In the 20 plus years I’ve known you, you have never changed,” penned TV presenter Sophie Falkiner.
“Kind, compassionate, vivacious, warm and spiritual. You were passionate about animals, vegan cooking, wellness and people. You loved hard and felt everything. A beautiful person inside and out. You will be missed.”
A post-mortem examination will be held to determine the cause of death.
Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467 and Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.