Millie Mackintosh, the 35-year-old Made In Chelsea star, has candidly revealed her past struggles with alcohol and the transformative journey she’s embarked upon since choosing sobriety two and a half years ago. Mackintosh, speaking on the Mail’s Life of Bryony podcast, described a pattern of behavior fueled by alcohol that led to embarrassing public incidents, strained her marriage to Hugo Taylor, and perpetuated a cycle of anxiety and fear. She recounted instances where her drinking escalated into confrontations with other women, difficulty navigating simple tasks like unlocking her door, and angry outbursts directed at her husband. The fear of being photographed in compromising situations due to her public profile added another layer of stress, creating a constant state of anxiety and dread.
Mackintosh’s candid account details the internal struggle she faced while living a public life under the constant scrutiny of cameras and social media. The pressure to maintain a certain image clashed with the realities of her alcohol dependence. She described a pervasive fear of being “caught” and the anticipation of repercussions from her agent, painting a picture of a life lived in anticipation of negative consequences. This fear, combined with the actual occurrences of being photographed while intoxicated, fueled a cycle of anxiety that further exacerbated her dependence on alcohol.
Her decision to embrace sobriety, while daunting, has ultimately resulted in a more fulfilling and peaceful life. Mackintosh acknowledges the initial fear associated with navigating social events and public appearances without alcohol, but emphasizes the immeasurable benefits she’s experienced since making the change. She describes sobriety as “the ultimate self-love choice,” a testament to the prioritization of her well-being above societal expectations and pressures. This decision reflects a conscious shift towards prioritizing her mental and emotional health, breaking free from the destructive cycle of alcohol dependence.
Mackintosh’s journey to sobriety has also been significantly impacted by a traumatic experience she endured at the age of 14. After consuming excessive amounts of alcohol at a party, she woke up to find a boy, not her boyfriend, on top of her. This incident, coupled with the pressures of fitting in at boarding school, contributed to a pattern of seeking solace in boys and alcohol. The inability to confide in her parents about the traumatic experience further solidified this unhealthy coping mechanism, leading to a cycle of self-destructive behavior that continued for years.
Her decision to stop drinking was spurred by a “breakthrough in therapy” in October 2022 when she finally acknowledged the detrimental impact of alcohol on her anxiety. The realization that alcohol was a significant trigger for her mental health issues, rather than a solution, became a turning point. This newfound awareness enabled her to confront her dependence and make the difficult but necessary decision to prioritize her well-being by quitting alcohol. This step marked a significant shift in her approach to self-care and managing her mental health.
Mackintosh’s story highlights the insidious nature of alcohol dependence and the courage required to break free. She has become an advocate for self-care, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing one’s own well-being. Her experience as a working mother further underscores the challenges of balancing personal struggles with the demands of family life. By sharing her story, Mackintosh offers a powerful message of hope and resilience, demonstrating that recovery is possible and that choosing sobriety is an act of self-love. Her journey serves as an inspiration to others struggling with similar issues, reminding them that seeking help and prioritizing mental health are essential steps towards a healthier and more fulfilling life.
