Famous Stories
This “Friends” actor was open about his addiction struggles and used his story to help others before his passing in 2023.
Matthew Perry — he used his recovery journey to advocate for addiction treatment.
What part of the brain is most affected by addiction — controlling pleasure, motivation, and decision-making?
The reward system (especially the prefrontal cortex and dopamine pathways).
What’s one thing you can do when you feel triggered to use?
Call a support person, use grounding, or leave the situation.
This actor from Iron Man and Sherlock Holmes has been sober since 2003 after multiple arrests for drug use.
Robert Downey Jr. — proof recovery can change your life completely.
You skip therapy for a week because you “feel fine.” What’s a healthy next step?
Be honest with your group or therapist and recommit — consistency matters.
This young singer, known for hits like Rehab, died in 2011 at age 27.
Amy Winehouse — her story reminds us how untreated addiction can turn deadly
True or False: Addiction is a moral failure.
FALSE!
You’re at a party and someone offers you a drink — what’s a healthy response?
Say no firmly, have an excuse ready (“I’m good, thanks”), or leave.
This rapper and actor got sober in 2008 and says recovery gave him back his creativity and family.
Eminem — he shares his journey openly to inspire others.
A friend says, “One time won’t hurt.” What’s the truth?
One time can restart addiction — every choice matters.
This rapper died in 2019 after an accidental overdose at 21.
Juice WRLD — his lyrics spoke about mental health and addiction; his death highlights the risks of self-medicating
What happens in your brain when you use substances repeatedly?
Your brain adapts, producing less natural dopamine, which makes you crave more.
You’re having a bad day — instead of using, you decide to…?
FREE RESPONSE
This pop singer, known for Skyscraper, has shared her story of relapse and recovery many times to encourage mental health awareness.
Demi Lovato — advocates for mental health and recovery openly.
You see a post online glamorizing drug use. What can you do?
Unfollow, talk about it, or use it as motivation for recovery.
This actor, who played Finn Hudson on Glee, died of an overdose at 31 after years of struggling with addiction
Cory Monteith — he inspired others to seek help, showing addiction doesn’t discriminate.
What’s one reason why quitting “cold turkey” can be dangerous?
Withdrawal symptoms can be severe or even life-threatening without support
What can you do if someone close to you is using again?
Set boundaries, talk to a trusted adult, don’t join in, and offer support if it’s safe.
This former One Direction member spoke publicly about addiction recovery and how therapy helped him rebuild his life.
Zayn Malik — shared that facing his issues helped him heal and reconnect with music.
You relapse — what’s the most important thing to do next?
Reach out for help immediately, be honest, and re-engage in your plan.
This talented musician from Nirvana died in 1994; his struggles with depression and substance use became public after his death.
Kurt Cobain — his story is often discussed in mental health awareness and prevention efforts.
Name one thing that can help rewire your brain during recovery.
Therapy, exercise, healthy habits, mindfulness, and time in sobriety.
What’s one real-life coping skill a celebrity in recovery has shared publicly?
Demi Lovato uses therapy, support groups, and creative expression; Eminem focuses on fitness and writing
This famous actor in movies like Highschool Musical and Iron Claw opened about his struggles with addiction and early fame.
Zac Efron - he speaks openly about his addiction to alcohol and cocaine, which he developed while navigating the pressures of early fame.
You’ve been sober for a month — what’s one healthy way to celebrate?
Do something fun, share your success, treat yourself, or thank your supporters.
P.S. Going top dinner is always nice or buying a cake!