Lucy Hale Opens Up On Her Struggle With Alcohol Addiction

[@TheDiaryOfACEOClips]

Check out the full episode here! kzbin.info/www/bejne/rp28k6Npa62DmJI

[@puaguard9985]

"The alcohol isn't the problem, it's this feeling inside of me." Could not be anymore accurate

[@natalied3347]

It could actually be a lot more accurate. Alcohol IS the problem.

[@pixelpond378]

​@@natalied3347 Except for many people, the misuse of alcohol is a result of problems that exist outside of drinking. It can be a coping mechanism and a symptom of a larger problem. People will get into issues with using alcohol to numb themselves, forget, express their emotions, to feel like themselves. For me, drinking became a way to feel my own emotions. My 'normal' without alcohol is feeling numb, suppressing my emotions, feeling a bit outside of my body, never truly being present. Those problems have nothing to do with drinking... but drinking is an easy out. I wouldn't say alcohol is the problem. The urge to abuse alcohol, for me, doesn't come from the alcohol itself but from those internal struggles.

[@kimberlydelrey]

@@natalied3347 there are people who can drink responsibly and have the mental capacity to know when to stop. There are others who literally lack that ability. It’s more complicated than you think.

[@natalied3347]

@kimberly within 90 seconds alcohol affects all systems and organs in your body and passes the blood brain barrier. It is a highly addictive substance - it's the most deadly and also the most socially acceptable. If you became addicted to alcohol, it did what it was designed to do. Most people who drink are attempting to control their drinking in some capacity. People who can drink one glass of something and have no desire to continue drinking are really the exception. The messaging that the responsibility should lay on the person drinking the alcohol is harmful. Big alcohol has had us believing this for too long and it needs to change. Alcohol also effects people differently - some people have a huge release of dopamine and some have very little, which will affect your desire to have another. It's more complicated than YOU think.

[@natalied3347]

@J M Alcohol IS the problem. It is a highly addictive, legal substance that reaches all of the bodys organs within 90 seconds and passes the blood brain barrier, which is why it is so inticing and addictive. It is the most deadly substance and also the most socially acceptable. If you became addicted, alcohol did what it was designed to do. Alcoholism is progressive and insidious. It is true that our circumstances and experiences make us more or less susceptible to falling victim to the slippery slope of addiction, but having no desire to have "one more" is really the exception. Most people struggle to moderate their alcohol use and don't quit until they decide the consequences are too grave for them to bear. The messaging that we are the problem and its got nothing to do with alcohol is SO harmful, and it needs to change. It will change - more of us are coming out and saying this, and big alcohol is going to have some 'splaining to do - you just wait.

[@sjtv1000]

Alcohol is one of the scariest addictions because of how accessible and pushed it is in mainstream society

[@anr8507]

Yes its scary , specially here in Belgium we have a lot of sales during all year long we can find a bottle of Prosecco for just 6 euros and a Sauvignon blanc for just 3 euros it's very cheap and accessible

[@LittledivaK]

And if you say you dont drink people think your weird

[@sarahgolden2948]

@@anr8507 i live in Belgium too and you’re so right ! The worst part is that is sooo cultural that people start so young not only by consuming alcohol but by being totally drunk …. 😢

[@mandoholikerin]

i am a social worker, working with addicts and let me say in these days most people we treat are alcohol addicts. some people really be like addicts for years without even really noticing it. mostly really young people..

[@rubamobarkey8179]

@@anr8507 I moved from Israel to Germany and it's insane how much people drink here and its really considered to be normal.

[@ellielane730]

It's crazy how you don't know what's going on in someone's life, because they seem so put together on the outside. Lucy was always my favourite actor on PLL.

[@Kels42]

Same. I literally named my daughter after her

[@MsTinkerbelle87]

Imagine all of the functioning alcoholics there are in Hollyweird?

[@ellielane730]

@@MsTinkerbelle87 now that's a scary thought

[@wandering4786]

Anybody that thinks they know a celebrity on a personal level is stupid anyways.

[@Andrew-pv8oz]

I assume everyone has problems

[@Nadsow]

This gives me more motivation to get sober. 27 years old and a daily binge drinker every night for the past year. Got three days sober this past week and went back to drinking. Started sobriety again today. 🙏🙏 And if I relapse I know there is another tomorrow and I will keep on chucking forward. I will update you all soon. 💜

[@thepositivepregnancyjourne2462]

You are in my prayers sister 🙏

[@Nadsow]

@@thepositivepregnancyjourne2462 Thank you!! I appreciate it. I just can’t believe I let myself get this far. 😞 I believe in myself, I can do this. 🙏🙏

[@trinity8756]

You got this. Keep the faith, my love. Just keep going at it and stay compassionate for yourself if you start again, it’s an ongoing process and as long as you don’t give up you’ll reach your goal ❤️

[@runner4life551]

I believe in you!

[@Halfsteppin1]

❤

[@selenafernandez4976]

Her story is more relatable than any other celebrity that’s talked about getting sober. I 1000% get how she felt when she said that getting so drunk to the point that felt like it was the real her; less shy, more outgoing, and all around enjoyable to be around. I’ve never heard anyone say that out loud!! I had to walk away from some people in my circle to realize that they weren’t rooting for me, the real me, they were rooting for someone that had no idea what was going on half of the time

[@miannasmoments]

💯 exactly

[@alessandrajackson3768]

I’ve been sober for 1,802 days now

[@holap602]

So happy for you . Keep on🥰🥰🥰

[@TheDiaryOfACEO]

👏

[@alessandrajackson3768]

@@Holyinspirit for me specifically, counting the days help me stays away from it

[@alessandrajackson3768]

@@holap602 thank you ☺️

[@alessandrajackson3768]

@@TheDiaryOfACEO thank you so much

[@tiffanyr134]

"The alcohol isn't the problem, it's this feeling inside of me". THIS is so important. Most, if not all of addicts begin their habit to cover up or escape something. Usually something painful or traumatizing. I believe this is the aspect that we always miss when it comes to getting people help or getting them to rehab. Without therapy and a deep dive into someone's past and psyche; sobriety will often be elusive, if not impossible.

[@vanysachterbahnfahrt]

But this is not true. Alcohol is the problem AND the feeling inside and that you run away from it. There are also mental stable ppl who get alcoholics and alcohol makes all of their problems. Because it is a poison it is a drug and it can get INTO ANYBODYS system in the wrong way. Everyone can become a victim oft it. So yeah it is the not Adressed feelings inside but ALSO the alcohol!

[@nicolenoemi7869]

@@vanysachterbahnfahrt You start your sentence with "But this is not true..." and then leave a comment in which you want us to take something from what you've said. I don't understand people like you. What you have to say is valid and what others have to say isn't true, your experiences are the only ones that exist and others experiences are invalid?

[@mirandataylor6385]

@@vanysachterbahnfahrt How is alcohol the problem when others don’t have the same relationship with alcohol?

[@sarahr5513]

Very true 😢 My brother is a fentanyl addict and this breaks my heart 💔 But also gives me hope knowing that recovery is possible.

[@TomBreezy1]

Alcohol isn't the problem. That's like saying the blade is the problem if you're a cutter. Its a neutral object@@vanysachterbahnfahrt

[@Lexi1126923]

I love when celebs talk about their struggles with addiction because there's such a myth and stigma around addiction affecting only poor/average people. Addiction happens in all walks of life, to all kinds of people, and it doesn't discriminate. Really glad to see that Lucy is in recovery. She's such a smart, sweet, and talented woman and deserves sobriety.

[@meganlucas935]

I have never heard someone speak about alcohol in such a way that is so similar to my own experience. Thank you for being open about this, Lucy, and congrats on your sobriety!

[@jillmayer9501]

I went to the doctor last week and told my doctor (a new doctor I'd never met before) that I was an alcoholic. The only other person who knows is my best friend. So I suppose I am high functioning - putting away a pint of vodka at night. She was shocked I'd never been hospitalized or arrested in relation to drinking. I started to cry a bit when she asked more questions - so she put her hand on my shoulder and told me it took a lot of courage to do this. I'm not sober yet - looking for a program that isn't based in religion and doesn't cost an arm and a leg. I really hope I make it.

[@DiaryBinz]

The first step is realizing it has become a problem for you!! You've gotten this and I will be rooting for you from a far!!

[@MelissasOnABudget]

AA. You can choose your own conception of a Higher Power. Don't get hung up on the "God" word.

[@Sufferingsassafrass]

@@MelissasOnABudget it’s still extremely annoying and off-putting in the meetings. AA didn’t work for me for this reason. It’s just not that easy to deflect the religious bs.

[@Sufferingsassafrass]

Jill, look up Smart Recovery meetings in your area. Free and not religious! They’re online too. 😊 You can do it 🎉

[@evelynsandeen6429]

try Rational Recovery. Self-help groups based in cognitive-behavioral therapy principles.

[@vickimaccallum]

It’s so different when you’re a binge drinker because the amount of times people will say “well you’re not waking up and drinking so you’re not alcoholic” is wild and enabling. Even if you only do it once a week, if it’s ruining your life and you’re not in control it’s still addiction. If you’re doing it to numb out, it’s still addiction. It’s not normal to only be able to cope with difficult things by excessive drinking. I look back now and think about how my first thought was always “I need a drink” when things got tough and it’s so clear to me. But it took a long long time

[@miranaestephan247]

If I drink daily and I need alcohol to cool off why does that make me an alcoholic?

[@iAmLoVeDjEsSi]

@@miranaestephan247 exactly the word alcoholic is overused and I’m glad to see this podcast didn’t dwell on those topics of labels and “standard AA”

[@Daydreamerr13]

Spot on….. !!!

[@jillmayer9501]

This. I think we assume alcoholics are unemployed and absolute messes of human beings. Personally I have rules around it - I only allow myself to drink at night between certain hours and usually alone. So that I can maintain my job and some semblance of a life. It doesn't mean I don't feel like absolute garbage all the time. I've managed to hide my drinking from literally everyone in my life. My brother drinks a lot and the other day in conversation about it my own mother said to me "yeah but you're not an alcoholic" - when I've literally put a pint of alcohol away in her home and had conversations with her while doing so. I sometimes wonder if I'm that good at hiding it (and honestly I'm pathetically proud of that) or if no one wants to deal with me.

[@vickimaccallum]

@@miranaestephan247 well.. that’s something to discuss with a professional not a stranger. My question to you would be: what would happen if it was a non-alcoholic drink? Would you still feel the same afterwards? There’s really not much point in getting angry about my comment; alcohol is addictive, it’s science.

[@kaitlynhammesfahr7311]

You can just hear the 12 steps and therapy when she talks about it. Absolutely love this. Happy for her and hope this can help others

[@iAmLoVeDjEsSi]

😂😂 ya it was definitely the 12 steps and therapy that did it

[@angijac18]

I’m 27, eat super healthy, I work out, trying to lead a lifestyle full of growth. Been an alcoholic since I was 19, hit insane rock bottoms multiple times. Even though I’m healthy and all that I still occasionally drink and my life is ruined for days from the aftermath from how extremely hard I’ll drink. Then I get up and tell myself it’s not as bad as it used to be, I live “healthy” and I only drink occasionally. No. I still know I’m an alcoholic even if it’s now just “once in awhile” and I know I need to stop forever, for good, but it is extremely hard to give up completely, no matter how much it has ruined me or hurt myself and others, it still is a hard journey. Loved hearing this vulnerability from her.

[@oliver556]

I'm 33 and this sounded a lot like me at your age. Try reading some quit lit. I highly recommend Alcohol Explained by William Porter. That book was 100% a turning point for me. One of those books that kind of lifts the veil of nonsense/lies we are told about alcohol and tells you why in a very succinct, logical and powerful way.

[@Super123ps]

Angijac18. I have a similar habit to you. 99% of the time I am healthy. I sleep well , exercise lots and my diet is good. However , from time to time , I have a massive blow out. I drink for many hours and binge on heavy spirits. I have done this for years. After my binge .. It ruins me for days. It also causes me to make poor decisions and it affects the people closest to me in a very negative way. I am 40 now. My liver doesn’t feel right , every time I drink I cry and the hangovers are terrible. You are young .. get out of this nasty habit if u can. Trust me .. your 40 yr old self in the future will thank u. Take care.

[@tomtodo834]

Have you tried a 12 step programme?

[@Nadsow]

27 as well. But I've been a raging alcoholic for well over a year now. My body and mind is so over it. I got three days sober this past week and started up again.

[@Super123ps]

@@Nadsow Keep going. You can do this !

[@stephanielacoco]

With how together she has always seemed, I’d never have guessed it. I am so glad she dealt with this and chose to share her story. She will help so many people as well as herself!

[@samsong24]

I've always liked Lucy Hale. She's so genuine and smart. She easily could have become such an egomaniac and that never happened.

[@srirachaaaa]

As someone who has struggled with addiction and have a lot of people in my life trying to escape addiction, the escapism is what really pulls you in to start with. This is easily one of the best interviews I’ve seen about addiction.

[@arianaorellana8650]

reminds me about scapism song by RAYE that talks about this

[@runner4life551]

As someone currently struggling with alcohol addiction, it's so refreshing to hear about Lucy's experience with becoming sober and how she had to go through a particular journey to get there. Addiction really is about way more than just being a "party girl" or “loving the booze." There's a lot of internal shit and shame that we're attempting to find a solution to, and it's the most vicious cycle a human can be in. Very much hoping to get to a year sober someday!

[@margheritab8987]

You can do it! ❤

[@runner4life551]

@@margheritab8987 thank you! Three days sober so far, hopefully this time will stick!

[@margheritab8987]

@@runner4life551 You already know, it’s not the solution, so you know it all. 🤗

[@makenamucai104]

I’m telling you God sees you and understands what you’re going through. I’m praying that you will continue to preserve through getting sober. Just know the Lord is on your side ❤ Not trying to force my beliefs just felt called to tell you that 😁

[@IloveJesus-k4i]

Girl you’ll go have many more than just one year!!

[@kerrykearns3551]

3 years sober April 25 I'm proud to be here well done every one who has decided to stop and get help x

[@melijxx]

Amazing! Congrats!

[@Morgan-mq7ck]

Congratulations on that amazing feat. It’s not easy. Your strength is wild! ❤

[@miriamcervantes3364]

Recently for the fist time told my therapist that I think I’m drinking too much, at least twice a week and usually drink “too many” I can’t never just have 1-2 drinks and be satisfied. He said it’s the beginning of an addiction, I was shocked, hopefully this can take me on a sober path.

[@s.stevens4520]

It sounds fine to me tbh

[@Elleleleni]

@@s.stevens4520 not if they can never be satisfied it isn’t!

[@steff6146]

@@s.stevens4520 Nope! This is the start of an addiction, and I think it's important to focus on prevention before it becomes really really difficult to stop. If at least 2 episodes of binge-drinking per week sounds normal to you or similar to your intake, pls consider talking to someone too

[@mochimochi7669]

@@steff6146 this is how my addiction started. I was drinking by 15 (with friends, got grounded lol) but not technically allowed by my mom until 17. She let me drink wine coolers or beer when we had family and friends come over so long as she was there. At first, it was only on those occasions so maybe once or twice a month. By 21 when I could finally buy my own, all bets were off. By 25 I had spiraled into a hole I thought I’d never climb out of. It sneaks up on you.. almost 30 and sober, thank God. Edit: I got married and moved out by 18 but still would go drink at the get togethers.

[@pleiades.puppets]

@@s.stevens4520 alcoholism is progressive, unfortunately. I was a binge drinker for many years, but that morphed into more frequent binging which eventually led to full blown addiction. It happened over a period of 15 years. Good luck Mariam, even if you're not an addict but can't seem to stop when you do drink, your therapist may be right in helping you to identify a problem (or potential problem) now. Some people can have a drink and walk away from it and never think about it. I wish I had been one of those people.

[@renate8830]

3 min into this and already crying. I have been sober for only 2 weeks, some moments it's so hard to say no to myself. I hope to have the strength to continue to say no to myself, but till then I'm trying to stay out of parties, because it's so hard. yeah, been blackout drinking since 14, now I'm almost 25 and understood I need to change things, it affects my mental health so much. It's no easy to do this alone, so videos like this where people share their story helps. been trying to stay sober since 17, failed a lot of times, so I hope this time is going to be a long one.

[@Coplandcalm122]

I didn't have a drinking problem but I did have an addiction to pain pills. It is the worst thing a human body can go through. I have been sober now for 11 years and never have I ever felt better there is absolutely no thought of ever taking a pill again. I nearly lost my husband and 3 daughters but luckily they ALL stood by me and helped day by day. Good luck to anyone trying to get clean and sober. It is so hard but when you do come out the other side it is SO INCREDIBLY worth it💞💞

[@CaitlynNoel67]

My best friend of 14ish years just passed away from alcohol addiction (blood too thin, destroyed his liver). Please get help if you are at this point. Thank you Lucy for talking about this. 💜💜

[@releasetoreceive]

How old were they if you don’t mind me asking?

[@CaitlynNoel67]

@@releasetoreceive 28 😭😭

[@releasetoreceive]

@@CaitlynNoel67 that’s how old I am! I’m so sorry for your loss :( sending my love to you!! The reason I asked was because I am going through a breakup. He broke up with me after 6 years… he always had a drinking issue but a few not he before the breakup his alcoholism got to the next level. He was drinking from sun up, to sun down, in the car, all day every day. Also smoked spliffs all day. Whenever I tried to help him and be the better influence he would shut me down. Claimed he loved drinking too much and that he doesn’t have a problem. He most definitely has health issues from it I bet due to he’s been drinking and smoking from a very early age. He just turned 30. I’m worried about him. I joked about doing an intervention for him with his family, he said if I did he would leave. Then a few weeks later, he broke up with me. Not sure if the two relate to the reason- but I saw him become someone I didn’t recognize. Soulless. Didn’t smile or laugh anymore, didn’t love anymore, no emotions or feelings, no sympathy. Cold. This is not who he is, I can’t help but to link it to his alcoholism. It breaks my heart. I don’t want him to end up dying from it. Curious if you had any input? I guess we can try all we want to help someone- but if they don’t want to help, no matter how hard we try it won’t be enough. Instead push us away from them it seems… makes me sad how this substance has such a hold on people.

[@CaitlynNoel67]

@Allie Hart I'm so sorry he has turned like that for you. My best friend turned to drinking to fill the void he had, his stemmed from abuse and being bribed alcohol to keep quiet at a young age, he started drinking at like 10 😭 so his was 17-18 years of constant abuse with very few times of sobriety. It's hard to imagine, but even still... I'm sorry for what you are going through. They won't get help until they see they need help. My best friend didn't stop drinking until 2 weeks before he passed, even with liver failure, even with the doctors telling him he only had months, he didn't stop. 🥺🥺

[@releasetoreceive]

@@CaitlynNoel67 maybe he felt, why stop if I only have weeks to live? My now ex said he would be fine if he died tomorrow. Such sad words to hear. I wish he didn’t push me away… I want to reach out and tell him I care and want to see him get better. Although I’m not sure that would make a difference at all.

[@tinymeanginger6293]

I watched PLL I never would have guessed this. She really did a good job of keeping it under wraps for the show. I’m so happy for her though. I’m happy she found whatever it took to help her get sober.

[@ah3738]

This is refreshing and thank you for being vulnerable Lucy. Slightly different story for me...but in the same addiction vein...it was gambling for me. The ability for an addiction to take over your life is simply an understatement. Family has helped me with this but the shame and embarrassment that accompanies it is nauseating. I'm telling everyone out there who struggles with ANY form of addiction...I see you..I hear you and you matter. Ps I love Lucy especially as Aria in Pretty Little Liars. Looove 💜💜💜💜💜💟💟💟💟💟💟🙏

[@mochimochi7669]

Thank you for this comment. I have watched so many shows about addictions and seen firsthand what it can do in my own life. They all usually stem from some sort of trauma or pain. My 600 pound life and intervention are two shows about different addictions, but I see very similar stories about their traumas. I also quit my addiction, alcohol, about 5 years ago. I’m glad you seem to be doing better based on your comment. I wish you all the best.

[@juanamaral7134]

this isn’t a subject that i can particularly relate to, but she’s being so open and vulnerable that just makes it feel so relatable. you go, Lucy ❤

[@Kayredeemed12]

How Lucy described the way drinking made her feel, is exactly how I use to feel drinking. I thought it made me more outgoing, less in my head, more bold, more fun. I felt I needed it to be my “true self” socially. I never heard anyone ever say that! I also have ADHD so my mind is always going 100 miles per hour. Overthinking is a natural thing for me, so alcohol being a downer, calmed my brain. I’ve had so many times where I’d blackout and not remember anything! It was terrifying, and embarrassing. I sometimes would literally crave alcohol, but never really seen it as having an addiction because I didn’t drink everyday. I think that was just my denial, because when I’d drink, I couldn’t ever in moderation. It was like I had no control over it, that was the problem I over looked for so long. I’ve stopped drinking now completely, even socially and have never felt better. I found healthy ways to help with my ADHD and now I feel so in tune with myself, clear minded, present and no longer craving alcohol. I actually am repulsed by it when I pass it in the stores, I’ve come a long way! I started drinking at the young age of 13 years old and now in my late 20s I feel more free than ever. True joy, No alcohol needed. Only Jesus, prayer, facing my traumas and insecurities head on, and learning self love. 💗 but truly the biggest thing was giving it over to God, and asking him to take the desire away completely. He did just that 🙏🏼 You can have addiction even drinking socially, that’s so overlooked now in todays society. That was me, and I never thought of it that way. But now looking back, I defiantly see it. Much love. ❤it’s not easy to admit.

[@MirandaM450]

Amen to this. This was also me, had my last drink almost 4 years ago. I also started drinking very young at 14, I think as you get older you try and keep that carefree mentality and alcohol did that temporarily. Happy to say that’s no longer who I am or what I need to have fun. Thank the Lord everyday for blessing me with my kids and showing me what life was really about and giving me that strength through him to give that part of me away. Proud of you Kayla!

[@Kayredeemed12]

@@MirandaM450 Aw thank you so much Miranda! 💗 amen. I’m proud of you to! I’m glad the Lord helped you overcome it, he’s the only one that can do it in such a way. 🙏🏼 life is so much more than that I agree! I have my 2 beautiful boys and amazing husband and life is truly great. It’s amazing how when we trust in God, how he can move in our lives. Blessings to you. Have a great day! ☺️

[@thaiholiday]

Im also ADHD and when she said one drink quiets the mind and she wants more, I really wondered if she has a wee bit of adhd as well. Regardless, super insightful video and I loved it.

[@priyas1229]

This resonated with me so deeply and it touches me to see how many others it resonated with too. December marked three years since I last drank. Love and strength to every person out there who is touched by this, who feels every word she's saying. ❤

[@natal1543]

This is a beautiful way to speak on the hardest thing for a lot of people. I too have struggled. It sucks!

[@sarahlynne6599]

6 years sober this month! 🥳 I relate so much to when Lucy talks about black out drinking- it is terrifying and my last black out incident was the defining moment for me, it finally made me realise that I scared myself when I drank.

[@harpergrace5846]

6 years is so great

[@triinbean]

Can't believe I've heard someone else articulate everything I have gone through with alcohol and their thoughts on it. In a way it is comforting and validating the decision to fully quit alcohol. I thank her so much for opening up and for this entire conversation.

[@juliannfloress3490]

Im glad you're OK now..

[@John-xw6qy]

You are not alone on this ms. Hale. I was addicted to hard liquor & horse tranquilizers for a long time. Took getting married to quit. Been sober for 20+ years now. I'm a former addict now. I am very proud of you. Brighter days ahead my dear. 👍🥰

[@pupasmr]

wouldn’t normally sit and watch a video like this but i loved the realness of this, say through the whole thing. so proud of lucy hale!

[@dreem5639]

This is insane bc I am currently going thru this and I totally can relate. I needed to hear this as well as I’m sure others did. Thank you Lucy❤️🙏🏽

[@Alexandriasays]

I have always adored her as a person and thought she was such a humble and sweet person, I am so glad she’s done this for herself it is definitely a difficult road but so worth it in the end. So proud of what an amazing person she proves to be ❤

[@zakkxx1]

It’s crazy we are conditioned to think that beneath beauty you can’t find pain and suffering. To think that such a talented young actress like her had to drink to feel contented is mind boggling. Kudos to you lady ❤

[@meg56794]

This was such an insightful discussion on a really challenging and difficult topic

[@inbetrieb3965]

Omg what a lovely and honest women. I am so proud of her and proud of telling her story to the world!!! Wow I love you Lucy!! Thanks for sharing angel ❤️

[@professormph]

I heard my story in her story. And, her sobriety date is my birthday, and exactly 6 months before my sobriety date. I am grateful to have stumbled upon this interview.

[@RJWorrell]

10 years sober this April. Baffles me how alcohol is legal or so easily purchased. It’s a hard core drug.

[@Veromoi4]

Omg I started at 20 and it took me until 33 as well. That’s crazy. I have 26 months sober

[@nataliyasattarova9423]

Lucy is so deep as a person! I would love to see her in more movies and TV shows, especially serious ones

[@athenaargyropoulos5988]

YOU GO GIRL! Wow. Truly a queen. And for anyone suffering in any way I’m sending my love and light.

[@taralyonscott]

I appreciate this. Alcoholism is RAMPANT in my family and I have to keep such a close eye on it. I love wine, but have to be immensely cautious. After a divorce last year I drank much more than I knew I should be because I was miserable and running away. I did the same thing 15 years ago when my father attempted suicide. I came to realize that beating myself up about going overboard doesn't mean progress. If I cannot enjoy a glass of wine with a dinner and stop there, then I don't get to have wine, period. Everyone is different.

[@juniper4194]

I don't like to drink i don't like the taste of alcohol but i love the feeling after drinking. I'm more confident and open with people, i don't have anxiety i'm happy i feel like i can do everything when i'm drunk

[@TSTyoutube]

i am 11 months sober but this feeling of just "one drink" keeps creeping in everytime i am invited to a party or an occassion and i have been cancelling on going so far just because i am afraid i might not control this feeling around the same friends i used to get blackout drunk with

[@missd3605]

Can totally relate. I'm not an alcoholic but definitely have a drinking problem... drinking quiets my mind and makes me feel light and happy. Which sucks

[@madisonshepard7947]

This woman is literally speaking my exact story (down to the language I would use, the “past two drinks,”) and whew! Thank you SO much Lucy for choosing a different way AND talking about your journey because it encourages people like me who are on that path of getting sober; it de-stigmatizes why people like me just can’t drink! A hard decision to make, but thanks.

[@camshy4u]

I love how she explains people think you just want to party, but in reality it's not the partying that is the problem. I understand that feeling of "how far can I go? I wanna feel more" but then waking up with hangovers is a wonderful reminder of all the internal, emotional pain that festers.

[@dmgo]

Wow …

[@dsm_796]

Watching this video reminds me so much of my ex-husband. It took us 5 years living together to finally recognize that he was addicted to alcohol, 3 of those years doing couple therapy. Yes binge drinking is not typically seen as addiction. Mostly when it’s a young man just trying to “have some fun on the weekends…”. Our relationship did not survive that addiction and all the heartbreak, lies and abuse that comes with it, but I wish him the best and I really hope that one day he finds what’s inside him that makes him go that route and not being able to stop. This shit destroys lives and not only the lives of those who have the addiction but also the ones around them. I know that I’ll forever be scarred and afraid of even normal drinkers. Happy for Lucy. 💛

[@blackbirdflyyx]

I’ve known about Lucy Hale since she was on American Juniors as a little girl (I replayed her performing Blondie’s Call Me so many times). I didn’t hear about her again for years until PLL and was thrilled that she found success in her career even though I wasn’t a fan of a show. But I had no idea that she was going through an addiction all the while. 😔 So glad she’s where she needs to be now.

[@tahliad5543]

I hate that after she posted her one year sober on Instagram people are asking her for interviews and I hope she didn’t feel the need to share her story, a year sober is great but not a long time when it’s been a problem since you were 14, I hope she stays clean after coming out about this and I hope she takes care of herself

[@annaymous]

“ I DESERVE MORE” this mantra in this case sticks so heavily with me

[@SL-lz9jr]

For me it’s shopping and eating. At some point I have to deal with the underlying issues driving this need, this desire to spend money or eat beyond fullness or eat every moment of the day. It hasn’t gotten to a point where it’s impacted my life but I know it has a hold on me and I need to let it go somehow.

[@des2507]

Very proud of you Lucy. ❤

[@Sophchie]

This is so relatable! I feel like she’s telling my exact story word for word. Wow. Breathe-taking. Thank you so much both of you. I’ve been sober a month and am planning to stay in this happy place. ❤

[@jessikarabbid4720]

It really does take time. 🖤 I used alcohol as a mask for years, and almost died multiple times. Also a binge drinker, I'd leave mid conversation to throw up, and come back with another bottle like that's why I left in the first place. It took a sink being ripped off the wall, and flooding a bathroom to finally acknowledge I had a problem.

[@amandaroseep]

Wow I’m so glad she came out and spoke about this so proud of her ❤

[@PlaceForAnEcho]

Always thought she was intelligent. This supported my feeling. Bravo to her being very honest. People in AA can be very blunt and brutally honest. Also he’s a good interviewer. It was more like a convo/discussion about addiction.

[@babywizzi]

i relate so much to everything she says. I am 32 now trying to get sober for 3 years. this video gave me new hope and motivation. thank you for sharing.

[@lillieroberts5397]

Wow, beautifully articulated. Wish her the very best... grateful for her words & example.

[@cg-es1te]

HOLY SHIT. The way she speaks about her addiction in relation to her family, friends, carreer, and herself is a really big fuckin deal. Props to her.

[@fionaflaherty]

This video is incredible and so eye opening. I have even more love for Lucy after watching. Thank you for your honesty and taking the power away from addiction. It is so taboo, which hurts everyone.

[@Buhrittany]

I needed to see this. I'm about to be 31, been struggling since I was about 22. I know im killing myself by keeping this up. But I haven't figured out a way to stop. I moved back home from Washington to be around family. I thought they could help but it hasn't. I've asked to be put in a facility. But unless I do it on my own, I won't get the help I need...yet I'm failing at it everyday. Anyways. I'm so glad I could watch Lucy express herself and her story because I'm noticing a lot of similarities. Gives me some hope Pray for me yall, I'm trying to figure out my purpose and why I am still on this earth. Take care

[@mtthplc]

i believe in you so much and you’ve come a long way. you will get sober someday, dont stop believing in yourself

[@Axel1051]

I'm nearly done for a year (April 1) so I know how hard it is. So I applaud Lucy for this.

[@jessica60934]

100% relate to this. Thanks for being so open Lucy!

[@clyde642006]

Was on pain pills & alcohol for nearly 15 years and had so many black out spells it’s a wonder I’m still alive. I would start at about 2 or 3 in the afternoon and popped pain pills and drank til 5 or 6 in the morning, then I’d sleep until 1 or 2 in the afternoon and start the whole process over again. I lost jobs and did things I’m so ashamed of, and hurt so many people that still love me to this day even through all the bullshit I put them through. I’ve been clean and sober for 4 years now ( haven’t relapsed once) and thank God & my family every day for getting me clean. It’s a hard, long road but you have to want it and sometimes it takes you having to hit the absolute bottom to realize “it’s time.” And you always need to remember that you’re always gonna be “an addict” but don’t let that define who you are.❤

[@HStacey2011]

I got seven years sober last August and I’m hopeful to make it to eight years, just a bit at a time tho. 🎉

[@breemitchell2612]

Thank you Lucy for sharing.

[@SoFrivole]

Lucy is the best! Bravo for having dared to speak about this subject. You can be proud of you because you will help a lot of people and to make things progress.

[@sarahhall9079]

I really appreciate the number of well-known people coming forward to talk about what impact alcohol has had on them because I think everyone feels very alone when it comes to alcohol addiction. If you are trying to get sober or want to cut back on how much you drink then the book and podcast "This Naked Mind" can be life-changing. Its author Annie Grace takes a super compassionate approach. I can highly recommend!

[@mellll4828]

Wish I could have a conversation with her. Literally my life.

[@JonKorpi-fk7yo]

31 years sober was a blackout drinker can't remember years now much better happier and stable keep stepping it works

[@NoName-ql1wk]

I like the mind quietening effects of alcohol. A lot.

[@briannawalter8033]

Thank you for letting her talk

[@munchkinsophie]

I love this girl thanks for sharing something personal like this with everyone

[@cloud.watcher]

i see so much of myself in her and it gives me hope and reminds me i’m not a shitty person and i am not my habits

[@karabear4640]

Have always loved Lucy! So happy she's doing well 💙.

[@IloveJesus-k4i]

One of the best interviews I’ve ever seen

[@Milliondollarmusic-ln1ii]

she's so real for this

[@specialK180]

You're not alone, girl. Same age. Similar struggle since 20. Hang in there.

[@kylieroth2326]

When we are in our addictions we think we can set rules for ourselves (I won’t drink around this person I wont put my self in that situation I won’t- whatever it is) and be fine. But addiction doesn’t follow rules. And that’s what got ME sober twice. I was a solo binge drinker for a long time and always told myself I just won’t drink that much around other people. Broke that rule at my college graduation party. That realization of that broken rule got me sober for a few months in 2021. Then I ramped back up in 2022 and my next rule was don’t do this at mom’s. May 31st 2022 something snapped and I broke THAT rule. Been sober since. Almost a year sober now. And I’m like Lucy explained I would try to moderately do it and it would get out of hand and I learned to just say away from it.

[@l56700]

Demi Lovato, Selena Gomez, Lucy Hale, they all hide their dark addiction really well, and for a long time. Well, that's just sad.

[@elzanevdmerwe3577]

I love Lucy , you're so brave and honest. I love that. You are amazing and so inspiring. Keep at it.

[@theivesinjeans]

I seem to remember that there was a time during PLL where there was a rumor that she didn't get along with the other girls or there was a feud or something and I wonder if any of it was caused from her addiction, if there was any truth to the rumors and even though she says it never got in the way of her work. So proud of her nonetheless, it's a major milestone for anyone to overcome.

[@hopfilms1983]

those were just rumors started by annoying fans who were always up in lucy’s business asking her why she never hung out with the other girls… newsflash, co-workers don’t have to hang out outside of work. ashley, troian, and shay were always hanging out a lot more together regardless. also mind you, there were rumors about ashley being a bitch which is a lot more likely based on evidence so let’s not blame it on Lucy’s addiction.

[@theivesinjeans]

@@hopfilms1983 I wasn't really trying to place any blame, just putting my thoughts out there. I figured it was all just rumors being spread around.

[@dt9538]

@@hopfilms1983 was Ashley mean??

[@GriffinDuyThespian]

I can relate to alot of what she's saying. When you're in high school & ESPECIALLY when we turn 21 we justify drinking because we have the time or freedom & resources to pass the time for fun & having the goal of getting hammered. the more life is lived, quality over quantity is learned.

[@always-positivity]

I adore you Lucy!! Thank you for being so open and honest. You are correct with everything that you’re saying here and I applaud you

[@eveimaginaire]

wow! so spot on i have been struggling with alcool its new for me and listining to Lucy speak about this just help me so much more in understanding whats happening with myself! thank you all for being lights in this world sharing ur experience and showing me its possible to change and thriiive! with much peace n love😇🌍🌞🌈❤️✊🏿✨

[@melijxx]

I’ve been clean and sober for 1,318 days ♥️

[@ashaf.6143]

That's absolutely amazing Meli, can't wait to be able to say that one day 🙌

[@alinegerard1284]

Alcohol is an extremely addictive drug that is so powerful it actually changes the brain’s thinking pattern and internal reward system to crave it (like cocaine does) and is also a carcinogenic toxin….so gaslighting “addicts” saying that addiction is solely down to the individual’s circumstances and not the drug itself is unfortunate. Most people who drink alcohol are functional addicts that often drink more than expected and wouldn’t be able to stop drinking if they tried or needed to, the “drinking one glass and being able to stop” is in reality very rare.

[@pumpkinjelly13]

I told myself the same thing when smoking weed. I realized i had a problem when i said that and quit. It was very hard the rage i had for like 2 weeks.

[@RosyPinky100]

So brave of her to share her story❤

[@demicoleman544]

Wow we are so much alike! Drinking patterns etc are the same. I'm 33 I was struggling for 10 years I am over a year sober as well thanks to AA congratulations we do recover.

[@tashayrushing4253]

Thank you for sharing your experience

[@shaylahastings6383]

I just heard this amazing quote for recovering alcoholics to explain their situation to people offering/ pushing a drink on them, “I’m allergic to alcohol and I will break out in handcuffs” 😂😂

[@roscoewalker9741]

I'm 5 days from 1yr!!!...I also choose "allergy over "disease "

[@lovencourage6284]

You didn't need the alcohol, you are amazing and perfect in truth!!! Omg! 🥺💜

[@J_Stamps86]

January 2nd 2022 is the same day I got sober and I have been ever since and never looked back. I totally understand the "it quiets my mind" feeling. It's so difficult to describe the perpetual state of sadness and utter worthlessness that comes with it. It's a bit like having a caravan in Skegness; I never want to go back.

[@caspers_cousin]

So well spoken 🙏

[@NS-fz1im]

I love love love this!! Wow Lucy thank you!! I’m a sober binge alcoholic and wow what a scary experience that is, thank you for sharing her story!! So inspiring!! ❤❤️❤️