Denise Welch has revealed she is 'happier and healthier' than ever as she celebrates 10 years of being sober.
The Loose Women star took to her Instagram page to share a side-by-side snap of herself before and after she had her last-ever drink.
She pointed out to fans how you can tell the difference in the look in her eyes.
"Got a few more lines and wrinkles but it’s in the eyes. They have it," she explained. "10 yrs ago today I took my last alcoholic drink. Not a sherry trifle since and it’s been the best decision I ever made.
"It changed my life and the lives of everyone I love and who loves me. I self-medicated for years and the memory of those times haunt me. Guilt and shame are very different. Guilt is something most of us have. Especially mothers."
Denise continued: "Shame is another animal. It took me years to overcome and I still have nightmares that take me days to recover from. The thought of going back there terrifies me.
"The ripple effect of my sobriety on my family is the thing I’m most proud of. My children are free to live amazing lives because they don’t have to worry about mum."
She went on to discuss her husband and how they have a great marriage as they 'take time to nurture and care for it'.
The TV star also explained how her father Vin, who passed away last year, died knowing 'she was in a good place with a good man'.
"My sister looks at me with respect which vanished for a long time," Denise added. "If alcohol is making you miserable, sad, anxious, ashamed rather than a bit giddy on a Saturday night then you’re drinking too much.
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"Stopping isn’t easy and staying sober is a lifestyle but it’s a much much better life. So today I’m happier and healthier in my 60’s than I was in my 40’s and 50’s."
She concluded: "Today I'm thinking of all those on the threshold of a major change and I can tell you it will be the best thing you’ll ever do.
"And to my friends who love a drink and don’t have a problem…..raise a glass to me today on my anniversary!!!"
Denise has been open about her past struggles with booze as it took over her life for around 15 years.
She once revealed that her husband, Lincoln, helped her and even got sober with her.
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