Melissa Rycroft acknowledges need for help after second DWI arrest
Reality TV alum Melissa Rycroft said she is seeking professional care following her second driving-while-intoxicated arrest in Texas and discussed her ongoing mental-health struggles.
Melissa Rycroft, known for her appearances on The Bachelor and Dancing With the Stars, posted an Instagram statement two days after being arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated on Nov. 1. She expressed shame about the incident and said she has been dealing with mental-health challenges for some time.
"I’m finally admitting that I need help," Rycroft wrote, adding that she is entering professional care and wants to be honest with her family.
The Southlake Police Department arrested Rycroft on charges of second-degree driving while intoxicated, driving with a prior conviction or suspension without financial responsibility, and a vehicle-damage collision. She was held at the Tarrant County Corrections Center before being released on bond.
Rycroft’s attorney, Bret Martin, reminded the public that an arrest does not equate to guilt and urged media and observers to await the outcome of the legal process. He called for a careful review of the arrest circumstances, including law-enforcement conduct and toxicology results.
The September 2025 DWI charge was previously resolved with a guilty plea, a 20-month probation sentence, and fines totaling $2,087. Rycroft, married with three children, has previously spoken about her struggles after the earlier arrest, describing her life as difficult and emphasizing her intent to move forward.