The Real Housewives of New York City star, Leah McSweeney, is three months sober, according to a Page Six report Monday. The reality star announced that she stopped drinking during the quarantine. The Married to the Mob creator had previously been sober for nine years. She started drinking again six months before joining the hit Manhattan-based reality show.
“Once COVID hit, I knew quarantining, and the way I drink would not work well together… to say the least,” Leah told the outlet.
The reality star shared that her decision to stop drinking has been beneficial in dealing with the stress of the current coronavirus pandemic. She also shared that her previous period of sobriety helped her stay sober for the past few months.
“Not drinking during the pandemic has been a complete gift to me and the nine years of living booze free has made the transition much easier to deal with.”
The streetwear designer posted a photo on Instagram of a token given to her by her mentor to celebrate the occasion. The bedazzled pink coin typically marks three years of sobriety but was passed along to celebrate the reality star’s three months without a drink. The actress explained that she hasn’t been able to attend meetings recently due to the coronavirus.
“Clearly there are no meetings to get my 90-day chip,” Leah explained in the comments .
The reality star’s sobriety does not extend smoking pot, however. The 37-year-old mother of one admitted that although she hadn’t smoked recently, she considers the herb “medicinal” and so partaking is not off the table.
Leah expressed her gratitude for the support she has received since announcing her achievement, and the star explained the reason for her openness.
“I am so incredibly touched by the outpouring of love and support on social media. I want to remove the stigma and shame surrounding addiction and mental health issues as this is something I’ve been open about and will always continue to be.”
Leah’s journey with sobriety was often featured during her time on The Real Housewives of New York City. She admitted during the first episode of the season that her relationship with alcohol was a “weird” one. Leah has been criticized by co-stars for her drinking. During one episode, they were not too happy with her antics when she was overserved.
Leah’s decision to start drinking again also put a strain on her complicated relationship with her mother, Bunny McSweeney. Bunny briefly stopped speaking with Leah after hearing the news. The two have since mended fences and were seen dining together on the show.
