Teddi Mellencamp Talks 'Sad, Down' Days amid Melanoma Journey: 'Instagram Can Be an Illusion'

“There are times when I’m definitely positive and brave but there are also times where I feel really sad and down and anxious,” said the ‘Real Housewives of Beverly Hills’ alum

Teddi Mellencamp Arroyave is opening up about how she always keeps a positive attitude on social media when providing updates on her melanoma journey.

On Tuesday, the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills alum posted a Q&A on her Instagram Story and responded to one fan who asked her how she’s able to stay brave and positive as she deals with her health conditions.

“Instagram can be an illusion,” the 42-year-old said with a laugh. “There are times when I’m definitely positive and brave but there are also times where I feel really sad and down and anxious. I just know that they come in waves and I have to kinda listen to myself and do what feels best to me.”

“I know that moving my body helps. With that being said, I can only move my body to a certain capacity,” she continued, referring to her ongoing surgery recovery. “I’m having one of those days where I feel pretty down today. But I think the big thing is just being open and vulnerable with the people that you love so that they can help support you. And know that you’re not alone and we can do this all together."

Related: Teddi Mellencamp Shares Tearful Video amid Latest Melanoma Diagnosis: 'The World Still Turns No Matter What'

Mellencamp Arroyave  — who shared that she had been diagnosed with her 13th melanoma back in September — has been transparent about her journey on social media.

Last week, the reality TV star posted a photo on Instagram showing off her large scar following surgery to remove the melanoma on her back, sharing that she’s finally in the clear with skin cancer.

“I got the final report back from my oncologist,” she wrote before sharing the message she received. “‘Final report is all good. Some atypical areas, but no melanoma. We’ll have to keep a close watch on you, but all good now. I’ll want to see you in about 3 months. Sooner if you have any concerns.’”

“I am forever grateful to my incredible doctors, nurses, family and friends,” she said. “I absolutely will be diligent with my 3 month checkups. Please be the same with your skin checks. And, yes, I had to google what atypical meant. Don’t know why doctors have to use such big words 🤪#skincancerawareness #melanomaawareness #curemelanoma #getnaked.”

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

Mellencamp Arroyave has experienced 12 prior melanoma cases, having first been diagnosed with stage 2 melanoma in October 2022.

In December of that year, she spoke to PEOPLE about how having the disease had inspired her to speak out and warn others to maintain vigilance when it comes to seeing new spots appear on their skin, as well as sticking to doctor's appointments.

"Skin checks are essential," the star said at the time. "We've seen how quickly it can turn from one melanoma to 12. So when your doctor says, 'See you in three months,' it's three months."

For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on People.