Each time I turn on the news or browse the web, I am so thankful that I am not a celebrity. My years as an alcoholic were tough enough, without the constant looming presence of paparazzi and judgment of the public at large. But, let’s be honest. Celebrities choose to live in the public eye, and those that are addicted to illegal drugs, alcohol or prescription medications are fodder for media outlets. Lindsay Lohan was a rising childhood star until addiction rocked her world causing her fall from grace, multiple stints in jail and rehab. Now that she is released from rehab, we can all hope that this time her sobriety will stick.
Justin Bieber’s rise to fame was quick, and his shooting star, his charming early teen persona sent him into the stratosphere. But, as he has gotten older, his behaviors are sadly beginning to mimic those of other young stars whose lives were forever altered by substance abuse. The news is filled with reports of Justin Bieber partying in clubs and bars, even though he is not yet 21, racing of vehicles, drugs and paraphernalia being found on his tour buses and in his vehicles, and so much more, it is truly disheartening. His lackadaisical attitude when it comes to drug use and alcohol is truly a frightening example for his millions and millions of young fans across the globe. What would a 35 year old Justin Bieber say to him today? What will he tell his children in the future about his use and abuse of alcohol and drugs at such an early age?
When I was drinking and partying every day, my life was a mess. I am so thankful that my drunkenness was not public fodder. I am still haunted from time to time with remembrances of stupid things I did, relationships I destroyed, and embarrassing moments that dotted my drunkenness. Through ongoing support, therapy and strategic relapse prevention plans, I make it through, one day at a time. My sober living is a journey – and I knew that when I started. I knew that my party friends of the past, and those that enabled me could no longer be a part of my life. I had to make a break from that life, and it all started with rehab and it has continued through the years with being a part of a supportive sober living community.
Reports indicate that now that Lindsay Lohan has left rehab, she is now living with a sober coach to help her successfully transition into a new sober life. From experience, I know that having the unequivocal support of a sober living environment is essential for long-term sobriety. My hopes are that Lindsay Lohan thrives in her new found sobriety and that she develops a strong support system that works to build her up, not tear her down and that she surrounds herself with individuals that are loving, compassionate, and strong.
Fighting addiction is not a solitary event; at least it wasn’t for me. I needed the accountability, structure, and ongoing therapy that rehab and sober living facilities offer. My hope is that anyone fighting an addiction to illegal drugs, prescription medications, alcohol – or a combination, seek the help they need before it is too late. I love my life now. Each day is a journey and I do my best to fill my life with love, creativity and hard work while maintaining my sobriety. Life is so much better on this side of addiction…
