Ruth Langsford Opens Up About Therapy Following Divorce from Eamonn Holmes
Ruth Langsford has emotionally shared how seeking professional counselling became the most beneficial step she took in the aftermath of her marriage breakdown with fellow television personality Eamonn Holmes. The Loose Women presenter, aged 66, and her former This Morning co-host announced their divorce plans in 2024, leading Ruth to initially resist but ultimately embrace therapy at a friend's urging.
Initial Reluctance and Emotional Breakthrough
During an appearance on the Happy Place podcast with host Fearne Cotton, Ruth admitted she was hesitant about counselling, crying extensively through her first three sessions. "I was crying so much," she recounted, noting her therapist remarked on only seeing the top of her head initially due to the tears. However, she soon realised this support was invaluable, stating it was the "best thing" she could have done for herself.
Ruth explained that her counsellor took a direct approach, bluntly telling her, "Your marriage is over," which helped her accept the reality and begin moving forward. "Once you accept it, and go 'The fight's over, isn't it?'" she reflected, highlighting how this acceptance was pivotal for her healing process.
Support System and Therapeutic Benefits
When asked what aided her through the ordeal, Ruth emphasised the importance of her close friends and the therapy sessions. She described her therapist as impartial, not taking sides but guiding conversations to help her process emotions. "She doesn't know us at all," Ruth said, appreciating the unbiased perspective that allowed her to talk freely and adopt helpful mantras.
Initially attending sessions once or twice weekly, she has since reduced frequency but maintains access for ongoing support. Ruth praised the therapeutic relationship, noting she can call anytime and relies on the counsellor's advice to navigate her feelings.
Moving Forward with an Open Mind
In discussions with Woman magazine and during her podcast interview, Ruth revealed she is not yet ready to date again but is embracing independence post-split. She recently released her memoir, Feeling Fabulous, and expressed a philosophy of keeping an open heart without setting limits. "Open mind, open heart, no limits, carry on, find the joy," she stated, refusing to rule out future relationships or living arrangements.
Ruth acknowledged enjoying solitude at times, valuing the freedom to live on her own terms, but remains optimistic about what lies ahead. Meanwhile, Eamonn Holmes has moved on, entering a new relationship with girlfriend Katie Alexander, with whom he frequently attends events and holidays.
The couple, who were together for eight years before marrying in 2010 and share a son named Jack, have both taken steps to rebuild their lives following their public separation. Ruth's candid revelations underscore the emotional challenges of divorce and the transformative power of seeking help during such personal crises.
