In a recent interview with Diane Sawyer, Friend’s actor Matthew Perry discusses what his journey through addiction has been like for the majority of his life. Perry shares how throughout his appearance on the show Friends, he had been battling sobriety associated with his mental health challenges. He shares how he would fake certain symptoms to doctors to be prescribed additional pills. He even admitted to going as far as attending open houses to search their cabinets for potential drugs they may have laying around.

Perry underwent multiple surgeries, a coma lasting 14 days, 6,000 AA meetings, 15 rehab admissions and more. Finally, Perry was able to overcome his addictions and is now ready to share his story. As a survivor and someone with a very influential platform, he recognizes the importance of sharing his story. In sharing his experience he hopes to help and encourage others who may be going through something similar. The actors stresses the importance of unity and community as isolation can be detrimental. Without the support and presence of others addiction can overcome an individual.

In his book, Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing: A Memoir, Perry writes:

“Addiction, the big terrible thing is far too powerful for anyone to defeat alone. But together, one day at a time, we can beat it down.”

The power that Perry’s honesty and transparency carries allows for people in similar circumstances relate. It reminds them that they are not alone in their struggles and that others are able to relate to them. It allows individuals who can relate to Perry’s experience become encouraged that there are ways to overcome and defeat their battles and that most importantly, a united front far from isolation is key.

Watch the interview here.

Image Credits:
Feature Image: Nik On Unsplash. Creative Commons