Valerie Bertinelli, the former Food Network star, has opened up about her ongoing battle to maintain sobriety in the face of intense emotional struggles. In a series of emotionally raw Instagram videos, the 65-year-old star has candidly shared her experiences, discussing the difficult moments that tempt her to seek solace in alcohol. In one of her videos, she admits to feeling ’emotionally excruciating’ and expresses her desire to numb her pain through drinking. However, bertinelli emphasizes the importance of confronting these painful emotions rather than suppressing them through unhealthy coping mechanisms.
The two-time Emmy Award winner also shared her struggles with resisting the temptation to indulge in unhealthy food while dealing with her emotions. Over the years, she has spoken out about her health journey and her decision to stop weighing herself. She acknowledges the urge to eat to numb her feelings but instead chooses to indulge in healthy foods like watermelon. In a symbolic gesture, she takes to the kitchen to carve the fruit, saying that its natural sweetness can provide comfort without the need for harmful coping mechanisms.
Bertinelli’s emotional journey is further highlighted in her message about the importance of facing painful feelings. She explains that suppressing emotions only makes them stronger and that the shame associated with numbness adds an extra layer of guilt. Instead, she encourages her followers to acknowledge their feelings as ‘information’ and to listen to what they need. Her posts have not only offered personal support but also created a sense of community among her followers who are dealing with similar challenges. Bertinelli concludes her post by reinforcing her message: ‘Feel your feelings. Do your best not to numb them. Feelings are information. Ask them what they need. Feel them. Get to the other side.’ Her heartfelt posts have resonated with many, offering hope and support to those struggling with emotional pain and addiction.