Iron Man, Sherlock Holmes, troubled lawyer—Robert Downey, Jr. is renowned for playing a variety of popular roles on screen, so it may come as a surprise that the 50-year-old was actually notorious for drug and alcohol abuse not too long ago.
Years of Addiction During Robert Downey Jr.’s Rise to Fame
In 1996, when stopped by police for speeding, the actor was found in possession of cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin, and even an unloaded .357 Magnum. That same year, his neighbors caught him passed out on their 11-year-old son’s bed. Even after this shocking incident, Downey refused to dedicate time to rehabilitation. Twice he tried rehab, and both times he was not able to commit. His unwillingness to remain in rehab long enough ultimately cost him: he served almost a year in prison.
It was not until Downey was arrested two more times, one of which involved him straggling barefoot on the street, that the gravity of his situation hit him. The actor decided he absolutely had to make a change: rehabilitation was not something he could just do on the side, or move down his list of priorities. Despite being the future heroic and intelligent Iron Man, he knew he couldn’t do it alone.
Path Towards Recovery and a Fresh Start
Robert Downey Jr. committed himself to a 12-step rehab program, therapy sessions, meditation, and even Wing Chun Kung Fu to rid himself of his addiction. Soon enough, through dedication and support, he was able to come clean, resume his career, and, in 2005, marry the woman of his dreams.
After emerging from his recovery process victorious, Downey acknowledges the strong influence genetics can have on addiction habits. Downey’s own father had been an addict, who even offered Downey a joint when he was just seven-years-old. “Pick a dysfunction and it’s a family problem,” he once said when discussing the likelihood that he had inherited the predisposition from his father. Downey now seeks to help Indio, his son from his first marriage, who recently was charged with felony drug possession.
Even the most well-known of people have fallen victim to addiction. Robert Downey Jr. had it happen to him, yet he is now a beloved actor all over the world. Jamie Lee Curtis and John Goodman have also battled addiction, and have stories to share about their recovery. Addiction does not define you; in the words of Downey Jr., “I am not my story.” You may have an addiction story, but you will also have a story of recovery.
Is Recovery From Addiction Possible?
Recovery from addiction is a difficult but achievable goal for individuals struggling with substance abuse. With the correct mix of support, motivation, treatment and resources, it is possible to overcome addiction and lead a fulfilling life free from drugs or alcohol. The right treatment program can help you identify the underlying causes of your substance abuse. Therapy, from CBT to DBT to EMDR, helps individuals address the root causes of their addiction and learn coping skills to avoid triggers and cravings. Medications can also be used to help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce the risk of relapse. Medication management can really help Support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous, provide a sense of community and accountability, which can be crucial for maintaining sobriety. While recovery is not easy, it is possible with the right approach and commitment to a healthier lifestyle. Casa Recovery can help you through your recovery journey. Get in touch with our caring team.
Casa Recovery is Here to Help You
At Casa Recovery, we offer treatment for both substance use disorders and mental health disorders concurrently as we believe that treating all disorders simultaneously is crucial for successful recovery of individuals with a dual diagnosis. Our dual diagnosis program is specifically designed to provide a safe and supportive environment to help clients overcome drug or alcohol use and address the underlying issues that hinder long-term recovery. Our clients receive personalized care, including scheduled individual and group therapy sessions, to help them develop positive coping strategies and support tools that can prevent relapse. Following detox, the next step in the recovery journey is intensive treatment. Our treatment program is designed to be small and private, ensuring that each client receives the individual support they need to achieve success in their recovery.
If you like similar stories about recovery, check out our the blog post about 5 Famous Recovery Stories.
If you are willing to seek help, then you, too, can become great. At Casa Recovery, we will help get you there. Please contact us to learn more about our comprehensive treatment programs. Our operators are available 24/7 to answer any questions you might have. Feel free to visit our team and facilities anytime at 31877 Del Obispo St #104 in beautiful San Juan Capistrano, California!