Niece Waidhofer was revered by her 4.3 million Instagram followers for her mental health awareness content and, on Thursday, her family sent shockwaves across social media when it was confirmed that she’s tragically passed away.
Niece Waidhofer dies: What’s the cause of death?
As reported by TMZ, fans of the 31-year-old grew suspicious recently when, seemingly out of the blue, Waidhofer deleted most of her Instagram pictures, leaving all but three posts, one of the day she got engaged to her partner, a video of her dog, and a selfie she took three months ago.
When Waidhofer disappeared from social media about a month or two ago, her family grew concerned and contacted authorities in Houston, Texas, to conduct a welfare check on the 31-year-old.
That’s when her lifeless body was discovered.
“Sadly, Niece took her own life after a long battle with mental health issues. She was very open with her followers about her struggles, even wanting to help followers who also suffered,” the family confirmed in a statement to TMZ.
Law enforcement sources also confirmed that, at this time, no foul play is suspected and, based on the manner in which her body was found, it’s more than likely Waidhofer committed suicide.
“Niece was more than her struggles. She was beautiful and kind, sensitive and funny, creative and talented, generous and compassionate, thoughtful and challenging. While it is so very painful to say goodbye, we take comfort knowing she is reunited with her father, her three grandparents, her Uncle Rusty, and her beloved Puff; and that she is now free to be herself and, finally, at peace,” her family added.
Waidhofer will be laid to rest in a privately held ceremony and in honour of her contributions to mental health awareness, her family will launch a non-profit organisation to further her work.
In South Africa, there are many resourceful organisations that are ready to assist you and your loved one in dealing with suicidal triggers. The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) is the country’s largest mental health advocacy group and their 24-hour hotline is free to use if you or a loved one needs help. You can reach them on 0800 456 789 (24 hours a day), SMS 31393, or visit their website for more info and help.n South Africa, there are many resourceful organisations that are ready to assist you and your loved one in dealing with suicidal triggers. The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) is the country’s largest mental health advocacy group and their 24-hour hotline is free to use if you or a loved one needs help. You can reach them on 0800 456 789 (24 hours a day), SMS 31393, or visit their website for more info and help.