Lily Allen has opened up about her personal struggle with a shopping and spending addiction, revealing her journey through therapy. In the latest episode of her BBC podcast, Miss Me?, co-hosted with friend Miquita Oliver, the singer disclosed her experiences with eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, which she has been undergoing for the past four to five months.
Allen described her spending habits as closely linked to her self-worth, stating, “I think I try and get rid of it [money] because I don’t think I deserve it.” She explained that her therapy sessions aim to separate her feelings of self-worth from the urge to spend, a process she found to be “life-changing.”
Reflecting on her recent purchases, which include a £16,500 (approximately AUD $33,000) Hermès bag and a £120,000 (around AUD $241,000) Porsche, Allen humorously remarked, “You’ve got to treat yourself and mark the moment. I’m convinced I’m a billionaire.” Despite these lavish purchases, she emphasized that her intent is not to advocate for excessive spending, but rather to acknowledge her journey and personal growth.
Insights into Therapy and Personal Growth
In discussing the EMDR therapy process, Allen provided insights into its structure. “You usually start by deciding an area, like a traumatic experience you want to focus on, and visualise the experience and identify the feelings that are coming up,” she explained. She highlighted that individuals working to change negative behaviours, such as spending, should focus on associating positive feelings with their self-worth, a technique she is currently exploring.
Although the therapy has been beneficial for her, Allen was cautious in her remarks about its effectiveness for others. “I am not a doctor and I am not qualified to give that kind of advice,” she clarified. “But this is what is working for me currently.”
Allen’s candidness about her struggles with addiction is not new. In a 2024 interview with The Times UK, she celebrated five years of sobriety from alcohol, emphasizing the positive impact this has had on her family life. She noted that her children now feel safe, a sentiment that reflects her commitment to personal recovery and well-being.
A Year of Reflection and Growth
The past year has been significant for Allen, who released her breakup album, West End Girl, earlier this year. Through her music and public discussions, she continues to explore themes of personal struggle and resilience.
As she navigates her therapy and recent challenges, Allen’s openness serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding addiction and the importance of seeking help. Her journey is one of self-discovery, highlighting the impact of mental health on personal finances and lifestyle choices.
The discussion on her podcast adds to the broader conversation about mental health, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own relationships with money, self-worth, and recovery.
