Can you share your experience before deciding to get sober and what it was like?
I was just like everyone else, you know, born into a culture where drinking was a norm, especially being part of the Real Housewives of Cheshire. Every event was accompanied by champagne. It started as weekend binge drinking, but it escalated, affecting my self-esteem and mental health. The combination of undiagnosed ADHD and peri-menopause made it a destructive cycle.
Can you elaborate on the impact of your mental health on your decision to get sober?
I struggled with anxiety, and later I discovered it was linked to undiagnosed ADHD. Dealing with ADHD and peri-menopause while consuming alcohol was like adding petrol to the fire. It led to a point where I was contemplating ending my life. It was a breaking point.
Can you share more about your decision to go to rehab and how it influenced your recovery?
Christmas Day last year was a turning point. I realised I needed help and told my husband about my struggles. We found a rehab in Thailand, and fortunately, we had the means to afford it. The four weeks in rehab were like passing a driving test, but the real challenge started when I got back home. It was a complete restart.
How was your reintegration into social life post-rehab?
Initially, it was tough. The first six months were the hardest. I had to create a green zone for myself, avoiding places like nightclubs and bars. I attended events for short durations and left early. Loneliness was part of the process, but eventually, it became liberating as I learned to navigate social situations without alcohol.
How did your family and close friends react to your decision to embrace sobriety, and how have those relationships evolved throughout your journey?
Initially, it was a mixed bag. Some were incredibly supportive, while others were sceptical. Over time, as they witnessed the positive changes in my life, they became my biggest cheerleaders. Sobriety has strengthened my bonds with family and friends as we connect on a deeper, more authentic level.
What role has routine played in maintaining your sobriety, and how do you ensure a healthy balance in your daily life?
Routine has been crucial. It provides structure and stability, preventing me from falling back into old habits. I prioritise self-care, incorporating exercise, meditation, and creative activities into my daily routine. This balance helps me stay grounded and focused on my well-being. You mentioned dealing with social anxiety and ADHD.
How do these factors contribute to one's relationship with alcohol, and what strategies have you employed to manage them without relying on alcohol?
Social anxiety and ADHD can create a perfect storm for relying on alcohol as a coping mechanism. I've learned that acknowledging these challenges is the first step. Meditation and mindfulness practices have been game-changers. They help me manage anxiety and channel my energy positively, eliminating the need for alcohol to self-medicate.
Can you tell us about your involvement in coaching and your current campaign?
Absolutely. I'm doing coaching and appearing on Housewives again. My main focus right now is a campaign for creating 'Cobies' – safe spaces for people with neurodiverse conditions like ADHD and autism. It's about making public spaces more accessible and comfortable for those who might get overwhelmed in certain environments.
