‘I didn’t want this to happen. I don’t want to not be together. I know we can’t be right now because he has to work on himself.’ ‘I feel very traumatised from the last couple of months.’ ‘I am very angry at him, and I am very hurt. I can’t help that.’

These poignant quotes from Molly-Mae’s documentary Behind It All reveal the raw emotions she faced. What was meant to be a joyful chronicle of her upcoming wedding with Tommy Fury turned into a heart-wrenching narrative of their breakup, driven by Tommy’s struggle with alcohol dependency. This unexpected twist has ignited widespread conversations about alcohol harm, urging campaigners and politicians to pay attention.

Critics debating terminology miss the bigger picture. Beyond focusing on Molly-Mae’s brand and the launch of Maebe, the documentary encourages her followers to discuss alcohol harm—a preventable issue that impacts many but remains taboo.

Molly-Mae’s choice of words, such as ‘alcohol problem’ instead of ‘alcohol addiction’ or ‘alcohol dependence,’ has sparked debate. While it’s crucial to use the right language to avoid stigmatisation, articulating such a sensitive topic can be challenging, especially without prior knowledge or experience.

Molly-Mae and Tommy’s bravery in sharing their struggles is inspiring and a call to action. I know from my family’s story that it’s not easy to share these personal struggles. I used to believe that alcohol misuse was a ‘choice’ until I lost my dad to his battle. Their story can help shift public perception and encourage more open conversations about alcohol misuse.

Regardless of the terminology—alcohol dependence, misuse, or addiction—there’s a lack of public education to ensure conversations aren’t stigmatising. Molly-Mae’s intentions were clearly not to stigmatise Tommy but to be unapologetically honest about her experiences and emotions. Her honesty is a step towards better understanding.

With time and more education about alcohol harm, Molly-Mae and her eight million followers can adopt less stigmatising language. This is an opportunity for campaigners to highlight the issue and educate people, including Molly-Mae and Tommy, who can then share that knowledge with their followers.

Molly-Mae’s decision to leave Tommy for her and her baby’s well-being highlights the complexities of supporting a loved one with alcohol dependency. Molly-Mae, a 25-year-old, is raising a young baby and managing a global career. Her family’s concern for her well-being shows how much she had tried to support Tommy. Ultimately, the decision for recovery rests with Tommy. No amount of love or effort can compel someone to seek help unless they’re ready. Even then, the help must be the right fit for them.

Her experience underscores the need for tailored treatment services that consider cultural contexts, such as Tommy’s Traveller background. Politicians and local governments must design inclusive policies and treatment programs that cater to diverse communities.

Tommy’s openness about his battle with alcohol misuse is a significant step towards recovery. However, it’s a societal challenge that requires local and national government action. Funding and creating accessible treatment services are crucial.

Molly-Mae and Tommy’s story has sparked important conversations about alcohol harm. Now, it’s up to politicians, campaigners, and advocates to push for pragmatic policies and create a society where recovery is possible for all.