Kim Richards' kids are reportedly "begging her" not to return to the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.

The 47-year-old reality TV star visited a rehabilitation centre in December 2011 to treat alcohol abuse and other "serious issues".

Kim's children are reportedly mortified by how her breakdown has been featured on the show.

"They're begging her not to sign on for a third season of Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, since it's been so humiliating for them," a source told Us Weekly.

Kim has been in rehab several times before her recent stint last year. Her children no longer want to see her inebriated, especially not on TV.

"This has been a lifelong struggle for her, and this wasn't her first time in rehab," the source continued.

Although her children feel discomfited about the public nature of their mom's problems, they deeply support her. They want Kim to return to the show as her true self, free from substances.

"[The kids] do want her to do the show," a second insider told the magazine. "They want the public to see what their mother is really like. She is the most incredible woman when she's sober."

Kim was released from her treatment facility in January and is reportedly doing well.