Amber Portwood, a prominent figure from the MTV reality show Teen Mom, has announced her decision to step away from the series to focus on her mental health. Portwood, who has been a staple on the show since its inception in 2009, clarified her departure through a TikTok Live session, stating that she quit production on Teen Mom: The Next Chapter just three days ago. Her decision to leave comes amidst personal challenges and a documented estrangement from her teenage daughter, Leah.
Portwood, an original cast member of Teen Mom, has been a familiar face for viewers since she first appeared on the show in 2009. Over the years, she has also graced screens on related programs including 16 and Pregnant, Teen Mom 2, Teen Mom: Family Reunion, Teen Mom: Girls' Night In, Marriage Boot Camp: Reality Stars, and Teen Mom: The Next Chapter. Her journey on the show has chronicled her life experiences, including her relationships and the complexities of motherhood.
The reality star shares daughter Leah with ex Gary Shirley and son James with ex Andrew Glennon. Her relationship with Leah has been a focal point of the series, particularly their estrangement, which was highlighted in recent episodes of Teen Mom: The Next Chapter. Portwood revealed that she was instructed to maintain distance from Leah, adding another layer to her decision to prioritize her mental well-being.
"My mental health is more important to me right now," she expressed during her announcement on TikTok Live.
Portwood's statement underscores a significant shift in her priorities as she navigates personal struggles and public scrutiny. By choosing to step back from the show, she aims to focus on her mental health and personal healing journey.
