Lorri Haines, CEO of the mental health app 'Shoorah' since its 2023 launch, has been a successful entrepreneur since his teenage years. Alongside his business ventures, Lorri Lorri Haines co-stars with his fiancée on ITV's "Ferne McCann: My Family & Me," sharing glimpses of his life. Balancing business acumen with a commitment to mental health advocacy, Lorri's career reflects a unique blend of entrepreneurship and entertainment.

Can you share some insights into your upbringing and family background?

Certainly. I grew up in an environment where my parents struggled with addiction. It was a challenging upbringing that significantly impacted my perspective on various aspects of life, including how I approach the topic of sobriety.

How do you think your family's experiences with addiction have influenced your views on alcohol and sobriety?

The experiences within my family have been profound. Witnessing the challenges my parents faced with addiction has made me more cautious and aware of the potential consequences of alcohol use. It has been a significant factor in shaping my decision to embrace sobriety.

In what ways has your upbringing played a role in your commitment to sobriety, and how has it shaped your personal journey?

My upbringing has played a crucial role in my commitment to sobriety. It has served as a motivating factor to break any potential cycle of addiction and make healthier choices. Understanding the impact it had on my family has fueled my determination to approach alcohol with caution and responsibility. Can you share with us how long you've been sober? I have been sober for about a month and a half now, I don't even miss the drink right now.

What inspired this decision, and how has the journey been for you so far?

The decision to go sober stemmed from a realisation during a wellbeing event. I've had experiences with moderation in the past, but this time, I felt the need for a more significant challenge. The journey has been both introspective and empowering.

How long do you plan to stay sober, and is there a specific goal or milestone you're aiming for during this period?

I've committed to staying sober until the twenty-third of April. It's a goal that I set for myself during a wellbeing event, and I'm looking forward to seeing how far I can go. The plan is to celebrate milestones along the way and reassess as I progress on this journey.

How do you envision sobriety becoming a more prominent aspect of your life in the coming months and years?

I see sobriety as a central focus in my life, influencing not only my personal choices but also shaping my professional endeavours. I want to use my experiences to contribute positively to the conversation around mental health and sobriety awareness.

As you continue your journey, are there specific challenges or achievements you anticipate, and how do you plan to navigate them?

I anticipate challenges, especially in social situations or during specific milestones. However, I see each challenge as an opportunity for growth. By staying committed, seeking support, and maintaining a positive mindset, I believe I can navigate these challenges and turn them into achievements.

What are your future goals in terms of sobriety, both personally and professionally?

Personally, my goal is to continue the sobriety journey and reach significant milestones, possibly extending beyond the current commitment. Professionally, I aim to integrate my commitment to sobriety into my work, especially through the mental health app I've founded.

Can you share the inspiration behind creating Shoorah and how it aligns with your personal journey?

The app stems from my passion for mental health and sobriety. I want to create a platform where people can find support, resources, and discussions around these topics. It aligns with my commitment to advocate for sobriety and contribute positively to mental health awareness.

How do you see your personal journey and experiences influencing the content and features of the mental health app?

My personal journey has given me insights into the challenges individuals face when it comes to mental health and sobriety. The app will reflect real experiences, discussions, and tools that have been valuable on my own path. It's about creating a community based on authenticity and understanding.

How do you envision the mental health app making an impact, both for individuals on their journey to sobriety and the broader conversation around mental health?

The app is meant to be a hub for support, understanding, and inspiration. I hope it becomes a safe space where people feel connected and empowered. By fostering discussions and providing resources, the goal is to contribute to a positive shift in how society perceives and approaches mental health and sobriety.

Considering your future goals, both personally and with the app, what milestones or achievements are you aiming for in the coming months?

I'm looking forward to reaching the milestone of six, seven, and eight months of sobriety by the end of summer. For the app, I aim to see it grow into a vibrant community, making a meaningful impact on individuals' lives and contributing to a broader cultural shift towards positive mental health and sobriety awareness.

For those who may be inspired by your journey, what advice would you offer to individuals considering a path towards sobriety or those seeking support for their mental health?

My advice is to take that step, reach out for support, and know that you're not alone. Sobriety and mental health are personal journeys, but there's strength in community and shared experiences. Embrace the process, celebrate the small victories, and focus on the positive changes you're making in your life. Find out more about Shoorah here