Braunwyn Windham-Burke Opens Up to Emily Simpson About Her Drinking

Braunwyn Windham-Burke opened up about a recent change to her life during The Real Housewives of Orange County Season 15 premiere.

Toward the end of the episode, which aired on October 14, Braunwyn invited Emily Simpson over to her home to discuss something important. "I am very nervous right now," Braunwyn told Emily as they sat down to talk. "Like, my heart is racing. I just have to let you know that."

Though the two haven't been the closest, Braunwyn explained that she wanted to meet with Emily because she had noted that Braunwyn seemed to be partying a little too hard at her weaning party last season. "You called me out on my drinking last year. And instead of taking it to heart, I really pushed you away," Braunwyn told Emily. "Basically, I think I just got angry at you, and then I came up with reasons to be mad, because that was easier."

Braunwyn went on to explain that she has not had "the best last few months" with her drinking. It got to a point where her husband, Sean Burke, suggested that she seek help if she didn't stop drinking.

Emily said of Braunwyn's behavior at the weaning party, "To me, there was obviously a problem, because I felt like you were masking something and doing it with alcohol."

Braunwyn said that she is "obviously scared of who I am without it." "It's much easier for me to be the fun, crazy one than for me to be myself," Braunwyn continued. "The vulnerability part is hard for me. Like, it's not a comfortable place for me. I don't like it."

She added in an interview during the episode, "Feeling things is scary. Feeling all the things is petrifying. I haven't felt these things my whole life." 

Emily assured Braunwyn that she would be there for her to help her through this challenging time. "I want you to know that I am your friend and that I will do whatever I can to support you," she said.

Braunwyn then shared that she would need to commit to being sober for the rest of her life. "I don't think I can ever drink again. And I honestly can say that scares the s--t out of me," Braunwyn said. "But yeah, it has to be forever."

The episode ended with Braunwyn sharing in an interview, "I don't know if it's divine intervention. I don't know. But for the first time in my life, I can say, 'My name is Braunwyn, and I'm an alcoholic.'"

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