# Millie Mackintosh: “I would drink to forget” Self-esteem, shame, and sobriety

An episode of [Happy Place](https://invisiblenetwork.ai/podcast/1353058891), 27 Jan 2025, 1 h 04 min.

Audio: https://sphinx.acast.com/p/acast/s/happy-place/e/6790a9241ab6c8a367721c4e/media.mp3

When does a coping mechanism become a problem? Millie Mackintosh talks through the big moments she realised her drinking was affecting both her own health and the people she loves. In this chat Fearne and Millie cover panic attacks and intrusive thoughts, which can both get particularly bad when secrecy and shame are driving risky behaviours. Then, how do you start to forgive yourself for the things you’re not proud of? And how can you talk to yourself kindly when you fall back into old patterns of behaviour? Plus, Millie explains how ADHD can interact with addiction, and what small lifestyle changes have made a huge difference to her physical and mental health. Do you want to drink less? Fearne and Millie chat about how they learnt to enjoy social events without alcohol. Millie's book, Bad Drunk, is out now. If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like: Lucinda Miller Brene Brown Vicky Pattison CONTENT WARNING: This episode contains conversations about sexual assault Child on the line is a three-part documentary podcast series celebrating the Volunteer Counsellors of Childline, and the brave children & young people who contact the helpline service. Listen here: https://www.childonthelinepodcast.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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