Scottish pop icon Lulu recently shared her ongoing battle with sobriety, emphasizing her persistent “healthy fear of relapse” since achieving sobriety in 2013 following a six-week stint in an American rehabilitation center. The renowned singer, known for hits like Shout, acknowledged seeking help for her alcohol dependency thirteen years ago after realizing the extent of her issue during her 65th birthday celebration.
In a recent revelation, the 76-year-old Eurovision champion delved deeper into her journey of managing addiction, expressing that a return to drinking would spell disaster for her. Lulu, who initially kept her sobriety journey private, broke her silence in her memoir, If You Only Knew, last year, finding solace in sharing her story.
During a conversation on the Matt Willis’ On The Mend podcast, Lulu disclosed that her last drink was on November 3, 2013, highlighting the struggle to control her drinking habits. She acknowledged the importance of recognizing alcoholism as an illness, a realization that brought relief, dispelling her previous belief that she was morally flawed.
Despite acknowledging a “healthy fear of relapse,” Lulu clarified that she does not dwell on this fear daily. While occasional thoughts of drinking resurface, she remains acutely aware of the severe consequences, likening the temptation to relapse to losing a vital part of herself.
Reflecting on her journey, Lulu disclosed how a conversation with her niece about alcohol struggles prompted her to seek help, leading her to a rehab facility in the U.S. within 24 hours. Following her stay, she diligently attended Alcoholics Anonymous meetings for five years, underscoring her commitment to sobriety.
In a candid account, Lulu revealed her hidden struggles with alcohol during her participation in the 2011 edition of Strictly Come Dancing, where she partnered with Brendan Cole, portraying herself as a “highly functioning alcoholic” who concealed her nightly drinking routine behind a facade of professionalism.
For those grappling with alcohol abuse or addiction, Lulu emphasized seeking help and support, directing individuals to resources like alcoholchange.org.uk for assistance.
Disclaimer: This article contains cookie and privacy policy information in accordance with Reach and its affiliated entities’ guidelines for data collection and usage.