Lisa Riley Overcomes Fiancé Challenges and Emmerdale Panic Attacks
Emmerdale and I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here! star Lisa Riley has recently overcome significant challenges related to her personal life and mental health. This year, she openly discussed her struggles with fertility and panic attacks while in the Australian jungle. Lisa has been open about her experiences, showcasing her resilience in the face of adversity.
Lisa Riley’s Fertility Journey
Lisa, known for her role as Mandy Dingle on Emmerdale, revealed her struggles with fertility alongside her fiancé, Al. At 48, she had hoped to become a parent but faced emotional challenges with fertility treatment.
She described the process as “emotionally draining” and shared her decision to stop after realizing she may never conceive. “Finding out that I was unlikely to get pregnant was a blow,” she stated. Despite this, Lisa remains positive and embraces her role as an aunt rather than focusing on her inability to have children.
Confronting Panic Attacks
Having risen to fame in the ’90s, Lisa has spoken about her previous battles with anxiety and panic attacks stemming from her sudden celebrity status. She recalled feeling overwhelmed by media attention and often experiencing claustrophobic panic attacks.
Initially, she did not seek therapy and relied on her mother for support. However, after returning to Emmerdale in 2019, Lisa mentioned that she has not experienced a panic attack in years. She now serves as a source of guidance for younger cast members.
Coping with Loss
Tragedy struck when Lisa’s mother passed away from cancer in 2012. The loss deeply affected her, but she credits her supportive family for helping her cope. Lisa has also faced grief following the loss of her mother-in-law and finds comfort in memories of her mother.
She expressed that embracing her character, Mandy, allows her to channel her emotions and navigate her grief. “Some days, I can put Mandy’s wig on, and it helps me get through the tough times,” she noted.
Weight Loss Transformation
Lisa’s transformation has also been notable in her weight loss journey. She recently shared her story of shedding 12 stone over the last decade through dedicated diet and exercise. After previously being a size 28, she is now a size 16-18.
- Key elements of her transformation include:
- Giving up alcohol for ten years.
- Mindful portion control and healthier food choices.
- Incorporating yoga, cardio, and high-intensity interval training into her routine.
Lisa has also undergone surgery to remove excess skin as part of her weight loss journey, expressing her satisfaction with her body post-surgery.
Conclusion
Lisa Riley’s journey illustrates her strength in overcoming personal challenges, from fertility issues to mental health struggles. With her unwavering spirit, she continues to inspire many by sharing her story and advocating for mental health awareness.
