Musician Addicts Find Hope Through Treatment

Whitney overdosed in a hotel bathroom. Amy died of alcohol poisoning. Lil Wayne admitted to his codeine addiction. It’s all too common that celebrity musicians — people whom so many of us admire, respect and aspire to be — die of drug overdoses. And it’s no surprise that the music world’s rich and famous are some of the most susceptible to addiction; they have money to spend, loved ones to miss on the road and lifestyles that can often seem fleeting, superficial and supportive of substance use.

MusiCares is a really cool organization that works in conjunction with the Grammys, and helps entertainers with drug and alcohol problems enter treatment programs. According to Voice of America, “Those who work with celebrities say the key to dealing with drug abuse is early intervention, effective treatment and a support system. They say recovery can be a lifelong process.”

That’s all true! But early intervention, effective treatment and a support system is key for any addict, whether or not he or she is famous.

Last year, MusiCares and the Grammys held a contest for musician teens who had experienced treatment and were recovering. “The contest was open to teens ages 14-18. Entrants were asked to compose or create an original song and/or music video that explores, encourages, and celebrates a healthy lifestyle or accurately depicts a story about drug abuse.” The winners won a slew of prizes, including backstage passes to this past year’s Grammy rehearsals.

It is amazing to see such an organization shed light on the importance of treatment and the hope for recovery it provides people with such creativity, talent and potential for drug-free careers, working in an industry with drugs and alcohol a-plenty.

Need a little inspiration today? Listen to the MusiCares contest’s winning songs.

Unsure where to start? Take Our Substance Abuse Self-Assessment

“Take our free, 5-minute substance abuse self-assessment below if you think you or someone you love might be struggling with substance abuse. This evaluation consists of 11 yes or no questions that are designed to be used as an informational tool to assess the severity and probability of a substance use disorder. The test is free, confidential, and no personal information is needed to receive the result. Please be aware that this evaluation is not a substitute for advice from a medical doctor.