Jackie O, one of Australia’s most beloved radio hosts, recently opened up about her emotional recovery from drug and alcohol addiction, shining a light on the complex challenges leading to the descent of substance abuse.
Jackie revealed she was taking a daily dose of up to 24 Panadeine Forte painkillers and 14 Stilnox sleeping pills at the height of her struggles – a boxful each day and up to 10 pills at a time paired with alcohol to cope with overwhelming stress and sadness.
Jackie’s addiction began during Covid in 2020, leading to her month-long recovery at the renowned Betty Ford Centre in Rancho Mirage, California in December 2022; 3 painful years later.
Her empowering story has helped Australians gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by individuals battling addiction, and the profound impact it can have on their lives. Most importantly, it reduces the stigma that seeking help is a sign of weakness.
Battling Drug and Alcohol Addiction
After losing ties to her supplier, Jackie O built up the courage to seek professional help, fortunately doing so before her addiction became fatal. Reflecting on her daily consumption, she shared, “I don’t know how I woke up most days with that kind of dosage.”
Jackie took time off from her radio show in 2022, telling listeners she’d been struggling with fatigue from Covid and was following her doctor’s advice to prioritise recovery.
“That’s what addiction does to your brain. It changes your thinking, it doesn’t want you to get help, it’s so powerful,” Jackie tearfully discussed the grip addiction can have on the mind. She further disclosed the 12-step program she underwent to help her regain control over her life and break free from the cycle of addiction.
Betty Ford is a renowned rehab centre, known for its celebrity intake and chosen by Jackie O for its privacy, confidentiality and success rate. Offering an evidence-based and personalised approach, this trusted institution provides quality care and support, which was invaluable to Jackie on her path to wellness.
Once her story unravelled, Jackie apologised to her listeners for concealing her struggles but expressed gratitude for the chance to inspire others battling addiction. “I don’t want to look back one day and think I had an opportunity to help someone by sharing my story and I chose to take the coward’s way out and kept it a secret,” she explained.
Overcoming Drug and Alcohol Addiction
Jackie O’s courage shines a hopeful light on the stigma surrounding addiction, acknowledging the strength it takes to confront these challenges that others may be facing.
Jackie O’s story serves as a reminder that addiction can impact anyone, and seeking help is a brave step towards recovery. These issues also affect over half a million Australians aged 16-85, who reported symptoms of a 12-month substance abuse disorder in 2020-2022 (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare).
For many Australians, the fear of judgement can make seeking help feel like a daunting experience, but Jackie’s story shows that life gets better after recovery.
Tranquilo is Australia’s luxury rehabilitation retreat with a focus on personalised treatment plans and a confidential, satisfying experience. Tranquilo’s core values align with trusted rehab centres like Betty Ford, supporting patients in rebuilding their health, mending strained relationships, and restoring daily functioning.
Jackie O’s story is one prime example of the life-threatening struggles thousands of Australians face daily. Tranquilo recognises that every person’s experience with drug addiction is unique, and no two recovery journeys are the same. Personalised treatment plans are tailored to meet the specific needs of every individual.
The vulnerability Jackie endured sharing her battle with addiction demonstrates that seeking help is a brave choice, not a weakness. At Tranquilo, we recognise that every person’s addiction is unique, and no two recovery journeys are the same. We turn your recovery into a transformative experience, giving you the tools to emerge stronger and more resilient.
Our world-class facilities create an environment where healing and enjoyment coexist, ensuring your recovery journey is as enriching as it is effective.
Rebuild your life with compassion and care at Tranquilo. Contact Us Today.
