Valerie Bertinelli is in the process of healing from the ordeal of enduring relentless taunting about her weight during a past relationship.
Addressing her supporters, the actress recounted an incident where she slipped into a pair of vintage jeans on a Sunday, evoking powerful emotions.
Through a captivating TikTok video, the thespian and renowned Food Network personality delved into the narrative of her journey.
“I can’t help but chuckle because a small, concealed bruise got triggered today. You might catch the sound as my pants softly brush together, creating this unique noise,” she shared. There was a time when she couldn’t find humor in her clothing choices, but that had changed.
“I gave up wearing these because I was… subjected to relentless ridicule, you know, the whole ‘I’m too indifferent to make an effort. Your pants wouldn’t make that sound if you…'” Her voice trailed off. She went on to elucidate how these “hidden bruises” represent what “emotional, verbal, and mental mistreatment does to a person.”
“They’re invisible to others, yet we grapple with them every day when they resurface,” she expressed. “I truly appreciate that the healing work I’m engaging in is making a difference.”
While Bertinelli admitted her initial hesitance in penning down such an article, fearing that it might prompt certain individuals to suggest ending the relationship, she had a particular message for those inclined to hold pessimistic views about her:
“This is emblematic of progress. This signifies the journey of healing. To all of you who can resonate with this and find solace, you’re embraced. I’m simply another member of your community.”
Though the luminary from Hot in Cleveland refrained from explicitly referencing a past companion, her remarks surfaced shortly after she openly discussed her process of overcoming a divorce.
“The pain is intense, yet there’s a cathartic release that offers immense relief,” she posted on Instagram. “I firmly believe that a substantial amount of emotional anguish resides within the body, and I’m wholeheartedly committed to my recovery journey — encompassing therapy, journaling, meditation, and rolfing.”
In January 2022, Bertinelli initiated legal separation proceedings from her former spouse Tom Vitale, with divorce papers filed six months later. By November 2022, she jubilantly proclaimed the official divorce day as the “second best day of my life,” expressing her elation.
“I’ve moved beyond it. The hold of the narcissist no longer lingers. I’ve long surpassed that phase.” The choice to exit an abusive relationship is undeniably arduous. I commend Valerie for opting to depart and embark on her path to healing. It’s a challenging journey.