For anyone with an alcohol use disorder (AUD), the decision to start recovery is often complex – even if you are famous. But many celebrities overcome addiction and commit daily to living life without alcohol or drugs. This decision requires someone to confront the addictions in their life and to make changes to their lifestyle. Usually, a comprehensive recovery program is involved. For each celebrity featured below, recovery has given them a new lease on life.
As a reminder that addiction does not discriminate, we are highlighting several celebrities recovering from an AUD. Their stories of recovery inspire us, and we hope they inspire you as well.
Conor Bezane: He may have the least name recognition on this list. But journalist and author Conor Bezane is one of the most inspirational celebrities on our list. In his book, The Bipolar Addict: Drinks, Drugs, Delirium & Why Sober Is the New Cool, he provides a firsthand look at the “invisible world of those living with a co-occurring disorder of manic depression and addiction.”
Jamie Lee Curtis: Curtis strug
gled with addiction and alcohol use disorder for many years. She was arrested for DUI in 1999 and decided it was time to start recovery. She has credited her sobriety with her success in Hollywood. Curtis has been open about her struggles with addiction and has used her platform to help others who are struggling with alcohol and substance use disorders.
Robert Downey Jr.: Sober since 2008, addiction made Downey Jr. a literal liability, nearly ending his career. Production companies couldn’t afford to pay the insurance required to have him on set. After multiple arrests and prison time for drug possession and DUIs, Downey Jr. decided to get sober. He credits his success in Hollywood to his sobriety.
Jack Harlow: At 25, Harlow is the youngest celebrity on our list and stopped drinking at least two years ago. “I can see my future right in front of me. And I feel there’s so many people counting on me outside of myself. I just want to feel everything that I could possibly feel.”
Demi Lovato: Lovato struggled with addiction and self-harm for many years. She was hospitalized in 2010 and 2018 after overdosing on drugs. Despite setbacks, Lovato has been sober for five years. We find her inspirational because her story reminds us that progress is more important than perfection.
Nicki Minaj: This Grammy-winning singer and songwriter has been sober for at least a year, announcing her decision on Twitter. “I used to be happy when I was high. Now I’m happy when I’m sober. No judgment to anyone. Be gentle with yourself.” Choosing Twitter to break this news is not surprising. With 27.8 million followers, Minaj is one of the most followed rappers on Twitter.
Daniel Radcliffe: The actor got sober right before the Harry Potter franchise premiered its final film. Radcliffe notes that his panic and uncertainty when the popular movie franchise ended contributed to his alcohol use disorder. With 10 years of sobriety, he has been working steadily ever since.
These are just a few examples of celebrities with an AUD who have gotten sober. But while some of the above celebrities may be sober, they are not in recovery. What’s the difference?
The Difference Between Sobriety and Recovery
Being sober generally refers to a state of not consuming alcohol or drugs. It is a short-term goal and a necessary first step toward recovery.
If someone is in recovery, they are following a process of sustained abstinence coupled with efforts to address the underlying issues that led to addiction. These efforts include attending support groups, therapy, or participating in a formal treatment program.
Recovery is a long-term process that involves ongoing work and maintenance to sustain abstinence and improve overall health and well-being. It involves a broader approach that addresses the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of addiction.
Begin Your Recovery from Alcohol with BrightView
If you or someone you know is currently dealing with an AUD, BrightView can help you start on the road to recovery. Learn more about how we help people get sober with our proven outpatient treatment program. Contact us today at 833-510-4357 or schedule an appointment at one of our treatment centers.
