Emmerdale star Lisa Riley is celebrating a huge personal milestone! She’s officially ten years sober and feeling “brilliant” without the booze. What prompted her decision to step away from alcohol, and how has this incredible journey transformed her life? You won’t believe the candid insights she shared about her past struggles and newfound peace.

Emmerdale star Lisa Riley is celebrating a profound personal victory, marking a full decade of sobriety that she describes as having transformed her life into something “brilliant” without the influence of alcohol. Her journey, openly shared with fans and the public, stands as a testament to resilience and the pursuit of genuine mental well-being.

Known affectionately for her role as the vibrant Mandy Dingle in the long-running ITV soap, Riley’s decision to embrace sobriety was deeply rooted in personal circumstances. She candidly revealed that she had used alcohol as a coping mechanism during her mother’s illness, a challenging period that also saw her father and brother processing their grief in their own distinct ways.

This pivotal moment prompted a re-evaluation of her habits and a commitment to a healthier lifestyle. The actress’s initial struggle, while not always outwardly dramatic, represented a fundamental shift in her approach to life and her overall mental health, emphasizing the quiet strength required for such a significant change.

On August 19, Riley took to social media to publicly commemorate her ten-year sobriety milestone, sharing a heartfelt post with her loyal followers. In a powerful declaration, she expressed that she has “never felt better” since shedding the habit of “hiding behind booze” that had characterized many years of her life, highlighting her dedication to her personal journey.

The outpouring of support from fellow celebrities underscored the impact of her honesty. Bury-born actress Suzanne Shaw lauded the achievement with clapping emojis, while sober singer Lucy Spraggan extended her congratulations, recognizing the immense courage it takes to maintain such a commitment.

Today, Lisa enjoys a serene life in her cherished hometown of Bury, sharing her time with her partner Al and her spirited 6-year-old niece, Everlyn, who actively plays football for Juniors. This grounded existence contrasts sharply with her past, demonstrating a profound sense of contentment and peace.

Reflecting on her journey, Riley maintains that her path to sobriety wasn’t marked by “a major struggle” but rather a conscious choice to no longer need, like, or want alcohol. Even at high-profile events like soap and TV awards, she often prefers to be home early, in bed by midnight, valuing her personal space over the social demands. While her partner enjoys a drink, she remains unbothered, simply expressing a dislike for superficial small talk, reinforcing her commitment to an authentic, sober lifestyle.

Her story serves as an inspiration, not just for those grappling with similar challenges, but for anyone seeking to prioritize their health and happiness. Lisa Riley’s decade of sobriety exemplifies the profound positive changes achievable through self-awareness and unwavering dedication to one’s well-being.