Category: Celebrities

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Celebrities That Are Open About Their Mental Health

Celebrities have the unique ability to reduce mental health stigma with just a quote or two about their experiences. Many well-known celebrities, like Emma Stone and Howie Mandel, exercise this ability to show 1) mental health issues don’t discriminate and 2) how they healed, and that recovery exists for everyone. 

We’ll cover a few of the many celebrities changing the narratives about mental health and championing the freedom to heal openly.

Chrissy Teigen

Chrissy Teigen is a model and muse for her husband, singer John Legend. She’s also opened up to the public about her struggles with postpartum depression. Despite support from her family, fame, and fortune, she found herself unable to control or lessen her symptoms. 

Chrissy spoke up about her struggles to show how “postpartum does not discriminate,” even though she “has a good life.”

Selena Gomez

Singer and actress Selena Gomez has experienced depression, anxiety, and anxiety attacks. She posits them as side effects of, and exacerbated by, her medical condition, lupus. Her mental health led her to take a break from performing and speak up about her struggles, saying, “I know I am not alone by sharing this, I hope others will be encouraged to address their own issues.”

Emma Stone

Actress Emma Stone began experiencing anxiety and overwhelming anxiety attacks at a young age. For three years, the debilitating attacks and constant anxiety of something going wrong plagued her. She’s since learned to use her “big emotions” as an acting superpower and credits acting for helping her manage the anxiety. 

Dwayne Johnson

Dwayne Johnson, known more commonly as The Rock, is an actor and boxer. He’s tall and buff and stars in action movies, comedies, and children’s films. He’s also publicly acknowledged his struggles with mental health and the importance of maintaining mental well-being. By opening up about his struggles with depression, he hopes to give hope to others struggling and be the voice to tell them, “Hey, it’s gonna be OK. It’ll be OK.”

Lizzo

Body-positive rapper and singer Lizzo has spoken about her challenges with mental health, specifically after coming to fame. She notes, “My anxiety didn’t go away. My depression didn’t go away.” 

She’s taken to social media to document her struggles, bring fans into her healing, and acknowledge her progress, recently saying she’s much happier now than before. 

Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga experienced depression and anxiety at the sudden soar of her success as a musician and singer. She remembers little of this time, besides it being “traumatizing.” Now, she’s using resources like antidepressants to stabilize her mood and speaks out about her experience. She says,

“I openly admit to having battled depression and anxiety and I think a lot of people do. I think it’s better when we all say: ‘Cheers!’ And ‘fess up to it.”

Adele

Singer Adele has wowed listeners for years with her powerful voice and deep lyrics, but has also opened up to how mental health issues have impacted her career. She struggles with depression and experienced postpartum depression after the birth of her son. Talking about it was daunting at first, like it was for Chrissy Teigen, but she believes this openness can reduce stigma and embarrassment. 

Miley Cyrus

Singer, actress, and former Disney star Miley Cyrus has opened up about her depression and how it affects her. She acknowledges it is out of her control and unrelated to her lifestyle and status as a superstar, but recognizes she can help others by talking about it. She says,

“There’s not much that I’m closed off about, and the universe gave me all that so I could help people feel like they don’t have to be something they’re not or feel like they have to fake happy.”

Jared Padalecki

Despite the fame and acceptance actor Jared Padelecki experienced from a young age, he still struggled with depression and suicidal thoughts—even with career success, good friendships, and a strong fanbase. He notes how mental illness doesn’t discriminate, saying,

“It’s not just people who can’t find a job, or can’t fit in society that struggle with depression sometimes.”

Lili Reinhart

Actress Lili Reinhart’s struggles with anxiety peaked as she tried to navigate the world of auditions, hoping for roles and her non-acting life. Her anxiety became so severe it impacted her ability to work and made her physically unwell. She’s also spoken on social media about body image and her experiences in the spotlight, helping others (especially young girls) realize it’s okay to struggle and it’s okay to ask for help.

Kristin Bell

Depression is different than sadness, which actress Kristin Bell highlights after struggling with the condition. She describes it as much more than needing a hug or just “shaking off” the feeling, but rather needing professional help to challenge her thoughts and feel like herself again.

By voicing her experience, she hopes to validate others’ feelings and help them get the care they need. She says, “It’s important for me to be candid about this so people in a similar situation can realize that they are not worthless and that they do have something to offer. We all do.”

Gwyneth Paltrow

Famous for her wellness brand Goop and her skills as an actress, Gwyneth Paltrow has also come out to share her struggles with postpartum depression and how her experience differed widely from common perceptions. Rather than crying everyday and being unable to take care of her baby, she instead felt like a “zombie, unable to access emotions.”

Gwyneth notes, “But there are different shades of it and depths of it, which is why I think it’s so important for women to talk about it. It was a trying time. I felt like a failure.”

Howie Mandel

Comedian and actor Howie Mandel judges America’s Got Talent and advocates for more accessible and affordable mental health treatment. He was diagnosed with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) in his 40s, though the condition began early in his childhood. Receiving a diagnosis and beginning treatment validated his experiences and relieved the weight of managing it on his own.

Since his diagnosis, Howie strives to reduce the stigma around mental health conditions, particularly OCD, and help others get the care he needed.

Prince Harry

British royal Prince Harry has talked publicly about the effects of losing his mother, Princess Diana, and navigating grief and trauma in the public eye. He spent decades holding in his emotions and presenting a positive front, which he says strained his relationships and work. Now, he’s more upfront with his emotions and less focused on masking them.

Lil Wayne

Rapper Lil Wayne revealed he struggled with depression and loneliness as a young kid. He also disclosed the bullet wound by his heart, once called an accident, was actually the product of a suicide attempt. Lil Wayne rose to fame not long after the attempt, which he said didn’t cure his depression or loneliness.

But he feels better now than ever before, and wants others to know they can get better. He says, “(I’m) hoping I can help anyone else out there who’s dealing with mental health problems by… being vulnerable. To me, I look at it by being brave and stepping up.”

Why Is Addressing Mental Health Important?

Stigma thrives in silence and misconceptions. Speaking on mental health issues shows what the experience is really like—and that people heal. Celebrities set an example when they share their struggles, championing for vulnerability and community and showing that mental health conditions typically break the stereotypes that lead to stigma. 

Destigmatizing mental health conditions can encourage more people to seek help and view their mental wellbeing as a crucial aspect of their overall health. Both are vital components to recovery.

Find Treatment For Mental Health

Imagine your favorite actor or singer telling you they struggle with the same mental health condition you do. Discovering this connection point, and seeing how they’ve navigated the condition, can inspire hope and the willingness to get treatment. People heal in many different ways, and there’s a path for everyone.


You can find mental health treatment providers on Recovery.com and see pictures, reviews, insurance information, and more to find the best treatment for you.

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Elevate Your Life: Jay Shetty’s 10 Ways to Think Like a Monk

Jay Shetty, now an author and purpose coach, lived as a monk for 3 years. He left a steady (but empty) corporate job to pursue a monk’s fulfilling, mindful life. He spent three years learning, serving, and unlocking new ways to live. After returning to his prior life, Shetty found many others desperately needed what he learned as a monk.

Shetty’s personal growth and newfound purpose fueled his desire to help others think like monks. He found that everyone—corporate CEOs, celebrities, and layfolk alike—could change the way they see the world, themselves, and their loved ones. This would lead to a new, intentional way of living that creates greater joy and purpose. 

We’ll explore 10 key takeaways from Jay Shetty’s Think Like a Monk (a #1 New York Times Bestseller) you can use to improve your life. 

Takeaway #1: Audit Your Time

Jay Shetty begins his book with an appeal to audit your time and see where you’re spending it. He points out how easy it is to spend fruitless hours on social media, watching television, or consuming other forms of media. Spending too much time steeped in others’ opinions and lives can make it hard to figure out your own.

Other pursuits can take up too much time, too. After considering where and how you spend your time, you may notice a disproportionate bulk of it is spent on work. Or, you may spend too much time “putzing”. It’s easy to misplace time, but when it’s optimized and audited, Shetty found it’s more than possible to spend it on things that actually make you well and fulfilled. 

Takeaway #2: Live Intentionally and Consciously

Jay Shetty found intentionality to be one of the core aspects of a monk’s mindset. Monks spoke intentionally, reflected and meditated intentionally, and made intentional decisions. To do that, they had to also be aware of themselves, their emotions, and the impacts those and their choices would have. 

If they did something or even ate something, a monk would know the driving force behind it and why they were driven to that point. These 2 aspects, intention and awareness, help monks and others feel more present and confident in life’s big and small parts. 

Takeaway #3: Stay Disciplined

Shetty learned discipline as a monk and how staying disciplined helped him achieve goals and find mental wellness. He and other monks would follow strict schedules and regimes, like meditation for hours straight and fasting. Shetty found he could mirror this discipline in all other areas of his life, which made goals more achievable.

For example, you could set daily schedules for yourself or time limits for certain activities. If you need to get a project done, block off time on your calendar and mute your phone. Stay focused for the time you set, including breaks in the schedule as needed. 

Takeaway #4: Prioritize Self-Control

To quote Shetty, “We are not our minds.” Prioritizing self-control allowed him and other monks to live unbound by emotions, desires, and impulses. Rather than being governed by thoughts, Shetty worked to control how he thought and the behaviors connected to them. 

Self-control also helps break the pattern of procrastination. Knowing you need to get something done can be all you need to get something done, rather than letting yourself procrastinate or come up with excuses. 

Takeaway #5: Focus on Long-Term Gains

Much of what Jay Shetty learned, including the life-changing benefits of monk life, didn’t appear right away. Part of what got him through hunger, cold, and exhaustion were the long-term gains waiting at the end. He found this future vision applicable in and out of monk life.

Setting goals or creating an ideal for yourself, your relationships, or your career is easy. But staying committed can feel much harder. That’s why Shetty focuses on long-term gains as a way to keep the end goal in sight, stay motivated, and keep working hard. 

Takeaway #6: Practice Single-Tasking

Single-tasking helps you stay present. Jay Shetty points out 98% of people can’t multitask, or at least not well. Single-tasking, as opposed to multi-tasking, allows you to deeply focus on one thing at a time, rather than hopping from task to task. 

Shetty makes this easier for himself by staying off his phone during work, having “no tech” zones in his house, and practicing mindfulness when he completes mundane tasks, like showering. Focusing only on the task at hand allows him to experience it deeply and focus his attention elsewhere only as needed.

Single-tasking may be an adjustment, but it can slowly develop into a habit and teach your brain to notice and appreciate the small things mindfully. 

Takeaway #7: Remain in Gratitude

Jay Shetty highlights the intersection of gratitude and kindness. He and other monks remained in a near-constant state of gratitude, finding small things to appreciate every moment. And since gratitude can make you happier1, Shetty and his peers could feel content and happy even in situations most of us may see as bleak. Gratitude can make you more appreciative of all your small gifts, like warm food, a place to sleep, and having people you love.

Expressing gratitude towards others inspires kindness and more gratitude, which keeps feeding the cycle. This cycle in your relationships can make them healthier and happier, whether with a loved one, peer, boss, or coworker.

Takeaway #8: Manage Your Ego

Shetty found ego, or thinking too highly of yourself, isolates and hinders growth. Judgment coincides with ego and can make us overly conscious of other people’s opinions and focus too much on how we might be better than another. Ego can prevent open-mindedness, hampering growth.

As a monk, Shetty took on mundane tasks and chores to keep his temple running, like peeling potatoes or cleaning up after animals. Wisdom helped him realize his own ego got in the way of enjoying these tasks and reaping their benefits. Humility, he found, worked as an elixir for ego and allowed him to gain the rewards of an open mind. 

Takeaway #9: Adjust Your Perspective

Little issues can feel huge, affecting your well-being more than the issue deserves. Jay Shetty found it helpful to keep a clear perspective and adjust your worries and stresses accordingly. He encourages making a scale from 1-10, with 1 being a non-issue and 10 being devastating (like losing a loved one). Think about this:

  • Where does rejection or getting stuck in traffic fall on the scale? Based on where they fall, how should it affect you?

Takeaway #10: Live to Serve

Jay Shetty says, “The highest purpose is to live in service.” Why? In short, Shetty learned that self-lessness heals the self. Shetty acknowledges it can be hard to think about others when it seems like we need so much healing ourselves. But his time as a monk proved he didn’t need to be perfect to start helping others. 

Serving can look like many things. You may give others your time, money, food, clothing, or share the roof over your head. Hosting a dinner, for example, allows you to give others many forms of happiness—food, time, and someplace safe to gather. You could also donate money to a charity of your choice, volunteer your time at non-profits, or act with confidentiality when someone confides in you about their joys and sorrows. This gives your friends a person they can deeply trust.

Some monks practice this by owning no material possessions, but as Shetty points out, that likely won’t work for everyone. How you use your possessions aligns with a life of service. 

How You Think Like a Monk Is Up to You

Whatever takeaways speak to you most, any and all can lead you down a path to greater joy. Insights from the book have inspired thousands worldwide, helping them break free from unhealthy thought patterns and baseless stress holding them back. 


You can learn more about Think Like a Monk and where to buy it by going to Jay Shetty’s website.

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Celebrity Recovery Stories

Celebrity recovery has long found itself in an unsavory spotlight. Magazines, paparazzi, and the general public place intense focus on the plight of suffering celebrities, often with an air of mockery. 

Celebrities coming forward with their addiction and recovery have started changing the lens of celebrity recovery stories. This is a far cry from old reports of a new celebrity in rehab suggesting culpability, shame, and judgment. 

Instead of making life unwaveringly easy, celebrity addiction stories suggest fame and fortune were not the cures to pain the general public may first assume. Despite the public scrutiny, many celebrities have recovered and inspired thousands on the way.

Elizabeth Taylor

Elizabeth Taylor was one of the first celebrities who acknowledged their addiction and advocated for recovery. She became addicted to prescription painkillers after a spinal surgery. She also struggled with alcohol addiction. 

Elizabeth Taylor decided to publicly announce her admittance to Betty Ford Center in 1983, Betty Ford’s first treatment center. By doing so, Elizabeth helped normalize the need for addiction treatment when such news was scarcely discussed, even in private.  

Though her famous career and life have since come to an end, Elizabeth showed many what living in recovery looks like—and that it’s achievable, even as a celebrity. A quote from ElizabethTaylor.com1 reads,

“Her willingness to remain open and honest, while under intense scrutiny, brought millions of people out of the darkness of shame and into the brilliance of healing.”

Jamie Lee Curtis

Jamie Lee Curtis nursed a secret addiction to alcohol and prescription drugs. She was prescribed Vicodin after a minor plastic surgery2, which she then took for years.

A friend finally caught her taking the pills and encouraged getting help. Jamie also stole Vicodin from her sister, who supported her in getting into treatment. 

Jamie has been sober since 1999; she revealed this to the public two years after gaining sobriety. She’s attended recovery meetings since her sobriety, sometimes hosting them herself in her set trailer. 

She was at first nervous she’d lose sponsorships and acting roles, but that was far from the case. Even in the earlier days of outspoken addiction recovery, her story was still widely well-received. 

Her public journey and commitment to the sober community have made her an encouragement to celebrities and non-celebrities in recovery.

Bradley Cooper

Bradley Cooper used alcohol, drugs, and “mean humor”3 to fit into the environment of Los Angeles actors. Despite his efforts, he realized he hadn’t made progress in becoming more popular—and was even doing the opposite.

In 2004, Bradley’s friend, Will Arnett, held an intervention to help him see the scope of his addiction and the harm it caused (forgetting to let his dog out all day after being on cocaine, for example). Cooper focused on his sobriety from that moment on and has been sober for almost 20 years.

Treatment also helped him grow his self-esteem and become confident without using substances to fit in. Now, he’s known to be generous, charming, and kind.  

Robert Downey Jr 

Robert Downey Jr’s experience with drugs began at age 64, when his father offered him marijuana. They used various substances together throughout his childhood. Downey Jr, like many others, was soon caught in the cycle of using to self-soothe and hide from the negative effects his addiction had on his life.

Robert Downey Jr has been arrested multiple times for drug use5 and spent a year in prison. After his third arrest, he checked himself into rehab and has stayed sober. A recent documentary featuring his late father details his recovery and history with addiction.

After becoming sober, Robert Downey Jr went on to have a wildly successful career. He speaks about his addiction and recovery to highlight the sobriety journey and offer his real-life success story.

Daniel Radcliffe

Daniel Radcliffe, best known for his role as Harry Potter, used alcohol to cope with the scrutiny and pressure6 of such a monumental role. He’s said his way of dealing with it was “just to drink more or get more drunk, so I did a lot of that for a few years.”

He would drink to forget he was being watched, then drink more to forget they were watching the “boy wizard” get drunk. As the movies drew to a close, Daniel continued to use alcohol to distance himself from the end and from figuring out who he was outside the role. 

With support from friends, he started his sobriety in 2010. He’s been sober since and enjoying new roles outside the wizarding world. 

Lindsay Lohan

Lindsay Lohan has a successful acting career freckled with jail time, arrests, and rehab. She described alcohol as a gateway drug for her, and she dabbled in cocaine to fit in with the party scene. 

She received her first DUI at age 207 and was in court for various drug/alcohol-related convictions 20 times from 2007-2012. A judge ordered her to go to court-ordered drug rehab in 2012. She credits that as what turned her life around. 

After regaining sobriety, Lindsay Lohan moved to the United Arab Emirates for a quieter, more anonymous life. She’s since gotten back into acting and helping others along their sobriety journeys.

Drew Barrymore

Drew Barrymore’s struggles with drugs and alcohol began as young as 9 years old. She attended rehab twice by age 128 and was hospitalized for 18 months following a suicide attempt and continued substance use. Her public struggles with addiction and mental health at first made it difficult to find roles. 

After her hospital stay, Drew emancipated from her parents. She eventually found success in acting again and married. She then divorced and married again later, having two children before a second divorce.

Her second divorce in 2016 drove her to alcohol use9. She says, “It was just trying to numb the pain and feel good—and alcohol totally did that for me.” An unnamed rehab facility and her daughters helped her recover.

Now, Drew Barrymore inspires other celebrities to talk about mental health and addiction on her talk show The Drew Barrymore Show and beyond.

Ben Affleck

Ben Affleck rose to fame in the early 90s. He went to rehab for alcoholism10 and a reset in 2001, then again in 2017 and 2018. 

A divorce in 2016 exacerbated his drinking. He went to rehab again, regained sobriety, and has since had relapses—some of which were famously documented. But he didn’t let that derail his recovery. 

Ben has become strong in his 12-Step program and, more generally, as a celebrity in recovery. He’s been quoted to say11, 

“It doesn’t really bother me to talk about alcoholism and being an alcoholic. It’s part of my life. It’s something that I deal with. It doesn’t have to sort of subsume my whole identity and be everything, but it is something that, you know, you have to work at.”

Demi Lovato

Demi’s first experience with drugs came when she was 13 and prescribed opioids after a car accident. Bullying and an early rise to fame led her to start cocaine in 2009, at age 17.

A sexual assault, and the coping skills she used after, eventually led her to treatment for self-harm and an eating disorder in 2010. There, she was diagnosed with bipolar disorder12. Demi checked into a sober home shortly after, in 2013.

Demi stayed sober for 6 years after years of heavy drinking and drug use (mainly cocaine). She highlighted her eating disorder recovery in 2017. But in July of 2018, she suffered a near-fatal heroin overdose13. After a 2-week hospital stay, Demi was released. 

She later relapsed on heroin, which served as another wake-up call. Demi got back into treatment and adopted a California sober approach to recovery, which meant she still used weed and alcohol in moderation. In the last couple years, she’s changed her approach to sober-sober14, or not drinking and using drugs in any amount.  

Now, Demi continues to take her journey day-by-day with an attitude of humility and hope.

John Mulaney

As one might expect, comedian John Mulaney describes his addiction with a unique level of hilarity. He first went to rehab in December 202015 after initially getting sober in his early twenties.

He became addicted to cocaine and prescription pain pills, which he kept on hand through shady (or clever) routes. One included buying and pawning a watch to purchase drugs with the cash. In other schemes, he went to low-rated doctors who he knew wouldn’t turn down the prescription requests of any new patient. 

At first, he feared the public’s response to his addiction and how it went against his public-facing demeanor. However, many received the news with little to no judgment, instead feeling glad he sought help. This highlights the upward swing in the public’s perception of addiction. 

He credits his friends and their intervention as what got him to get help. Reflecting on his 3-year sobriety, he says, “​​I used to care what everyone thought about me so much…And I don’t anymore. Because I can honestly say, ‘What is someone gonna do to me that’s worse than what I would do to myself?'”

Start Your Recovery Journey

Time has shown the deep humanity of celebrities, despite what the media might have us believe. Their stardom doesn’t save them from suffering; but it can make them excellent advocates for recovery. Money and fame didn’t make them recover. Their own personal choices and efforts did. 

Whether or not you’re a famous actor, comedian, or other celebrity, you have resources for your recovery. Celebrity addiction stories highlight that truth. A residential rehab could provide the safe, structured environment you need to begin, and maintain, your recovery.
You can browse our list of rehabs to see photos, reviews, insurance information, and more all in one place.

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Choosing the Right Rehab as a Celebrity

We hear it all the time: “celebrities are just like everyone else.” And in many ways, that’s true. But you might have some unique concerns when it comes to rehab. For example, privacy, flexibility, and maintaining your lifestyle might be especially high priorities. In a luxury rehab center, you can start addiction and mental health recovery without sacrificing your other needs. 

Why Is Addiction So Common in Celebrities?

Addiction doesn’t discriminate. Whether or not you’re famous, you might develop an addiction for a variety of reasons. But certain aspects of fame contribute to higher rates of addiction among affluent people:1

  • Easier access to drugs and alcohol
  • Isolation from trustworthy support systems
  • Trauma from abuse and neglect, especially during childhood fame
  • Pressure from demanding professions

Like anyone else, some celebrities may also have a genetic predisposition to addiction.2 This risk is further increased when combined with a stressful lifestyle. 

Unique Challenges of Recovery for Celebrities

If fame plays a role in developing addiction, it also affects how you access treatment. Many celebrities have ongoing contractual obligations like games, tours, or interviews. So if you take time off work for treatment, you might face career and financial penalties. And those commitments don’t end after rehab. Many of them even come with an expectation to drink or use drugs with your colleagues and fans.

High achievers also face significant financial pressures. You might be supporting a large staff, artistic collaborators, and loved ones. So if you stop working, they could feel immediate effects. And fame doesn’t always bring financial success. High-profile activists, politicians, and artists can’t always afford rehab centers with the strict privacy they need. 

For this demographic, public opinion has a major impact on the recovery process. And unwanted media attention can interfere with healing. Because of this, confidentiality is a major concern for high-profile clients—as it should be. You have the right to recover on your own terms. That’s why most rehabs have privacy policies that keep celebrities safe from prying eyes. 

What Do Celebrity Rehabs Offer?

Celebrity rehabs understand the unique ways that fame affects addiction and recovery. There are a few key ways rehabs approach treatment for high-profile patients. 

Confidentiality

For most celebrities, privacy is essential for recovery. That way, you can focus on yourself and the changes you want to make, without distractions. With this in mind, celebrity rehabs have strict privacy policies. 

For the utmost confidentiality, some rehabs treat only one client at a time, and some centers cater specifically to celebrities. They take a personalized approach to recovery, tailoring treatment to meet your unique needs. 

Location can also play a role in keeping your recovery private. Swiss rehabs, for example, take anonymity to the next level. Jan Gerber, CEO of Paracelsus Recovery in Zurich, explains: 

“In terms of confidentiality, that’s basically the second name of Switzerland. It’s the banking secrecy, the whole discretion. The Swiss mindset is, in a way, non-sensational. We get clients who are celebrity, A-list Hollywood actors, who go to the local Starbucks. Of course they’re recognized, but it’s not in the news, the local tabloids don’t write about it, and they’re not harassed for autographs either.”

Flexibility

With success comes responsibility. If a team of employees depend on you, you might not be able to take time off work for recovery. Or you might need to attend social functions, or stay in touch with your family. At many elite rehabs, you can keep these commitments during your stay. 

Some centers have more relaxed device use policies, so you can stay connected throughout treatment. Others even allow you to work remotely. As long as these activities don’t interfere with your progress, you can continue taking care of business while you heal.   

Gerber describes how the clinicians at Paracelsus Recovery accommodate each patient’s individual needs:

“We’ve had people with regular scheduled TV appearances, such as entertainers who have had to be in front of the camera once a week in a different country. We could accommodate that. We have people who run companies, or family business empires. They have to have work calls every day. We have to accommodate that.”

tikvah lake recovery pool
Tikvah Lake Recovery provides clients with a sober companion to join them at special events.

Joyful Recreation

If you’re successful in your chosen field, you may be accustomed to a certain lifestyle. Rehab doesn’t have to interrupt that. In fact, learning to enjoy yourself without drug use is an important part of recovery.3 

At White River Manor in South Africa, for instance, patients can go bungee jumping, whitewater rafting, or even on safari. Director Co-Owner Giles Fourie describes the therapeutic value of these activities:  

“There’s great therapy in that. It’s also just about having fun. There’s great value in our clients experiencing what it is to have fun outside of addiction, outside of the substances that they believed they needed in order to experience joy in their lives.” 

And these experiences don’t just bring joy to your time in treatment. They can also set you up for long-term success. 

Comprehensive Aftercare

When you leave inpatient treatment, you’ll probably return to the same world you left behind. Even if you’re sober, you might need to keep attending high-profile events where drugs and alcohol play a role. And you’ll still face the same pressures you did before entering treatment. 

That’s why many celebrity rehabs offer comprehensive aftercare. You can return to the center for a follow-up stay, or meet with your therapist remotely. Some rehabs, like Tikvah Lake Recovery, even offer sober companions to join you at special events. Their presence can help you work through triggers and avoid relapse. 

What Rehabs Do Celebrities Go To?

Recovery is unique for everyone—even high-profile clients. While many celebrity rehabs are lavish retreats, that’s not universally true. 

As extravagant as this sounds, not all celebrity rehabs are expensive. And most of them accept insurance since the adoption of the Affordable Care Act. Treatment in some parts of the world, like Thailand, is particularly accessible. Whatever your budget is, you can likely find a luxury rehab that fits your lifestyle.

the hills rehab chiang mai property
The Hills Rehab Chiang Mai and other rehabs in Thailand offer luxury amenities at an affordable price point.

Bespoke Luxury Rehabs

When you’re used to a high standard of living, leaving it behind can interfere with healing. But if luxury amenities are a priority for you, many rehabs can meet your needs. You might have a private chef, personal trainer, and house staff assigned to you during your stay. And you can stay in a 5-star room, private suite, or even an entire villa. Many luxury rehabs also offer a 24/7 concierge service. You’ll have somebody there to act as a liaison between you, the staff, and your loved ones throughout treatment. And they can also be an important source of emotional support outside of your treatment team. 

In rehabs like Orenda at Futures, this approach is central to recovery. Their team believes “freeing patients to concentrate fully on therapy produces better outcomes.” To that end, their team is dedicated to meeting each client’s unique needs. They’re always available to answer your questions and make your stay as comfortable as possible. 

Holistic Rehabs

Holistic rehabs treat addiction using a variety of evidence-based and alternative therapies:

These types of rehabs treat the whole person, addressing your physical, mental, and spiritual wellness. At Alta Mira Recovery in California, expert staff “address neurobiological, psychological, social, physical and spiritual aspects of addiction” with therapies ranging from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to equine therapy.4

Celebrity Rehabs: Joyful and Private Places to Heal

When you find fame, it’s all too easy to lose yourself in the process. In treatment, you can get to know yourself again without the pressure of public opinion. And you won’t have to choose between career success and recovery. Celebrity rehabs show you how to keep the best parts of your lifestyle, and let go of the behaviors that aren’t serving you.

Search our collection of luxury rehabs to learn more about their locations, approaches, and special considerations.

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Celebrity Rehab Centers: 9 Luxury Treatment Options for Privacy and Comfort

Addiction and mental health problems can affect anyone, even the rich and famous. But if you’re used to a high standard of living, you might worry about giving up comfort during inpatient treatment. Celebrity rehab centers offer the perfect solution. These luxury facilities provide top-notch health care while maintaining the comforts you enjoy in daily life.

What Makes Celebrity Rehabs Special?

Celebrity rehabs combine effective treatment with luxury experiences. At these centers, you might go whale watching, take a sunset yacht ride, or enjoy skydiving adventures. Many look like high-end resorts or tropical getaways from the outside. But inside, they offer much more than a fancy vacation.

These facilities maintain strict privacy measures to protect their famous clients. Most have security teams, private rooms, and confidentiality agreements for all staff. Some centers don’t even have map listings, to keep their location secret from the public and media.

The best celebrity rehabs focus on both comfort and effective treatment. They employ highly qualified therapists, doctors, and support staff. Many offer personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs.

Celebrity Rehab Centers Around the World

You can find celebrity rehabs around the globe, with a wide variety of treatments and amenities. Whether you prefer the tropics, a mountain retreat, or a private island oasis, there’s most likely a treatment facility that meets your needs. 

luxury holistic rehab exclusive hawaii facility

1. Exclusive Hawaii Rehab

This oceanside center prioritizes privacy with a gated residence hidden from the road. A security team guards the property 24/7. The center treats a maximum of 7 clients at once, offering 3 room options: shared, private with shared bathroom, or private with en suite.

Exclusive Hawaii Rehab offers naturopathic and holistic therapies for drug addiction and mental health. They provide nutritional counseling, IV therapies, and traditional Hawaiian Ho’oponopono sessions. Clients can keep up with work during recovery, with access to phones, laptops, and dedicated workspaces.

When you’re not in therapy, you can feed manta rays, take cooking classes, visit waterfalls, or simply relax on the beach.

southern california celebrity rehab passages malibu

2. Passages Malibu

Located on the sunny coast of Los Angeles County, Passages Malibu focuses heavily on individual therapy. Clients receive 60-80 hours of one-on-one therapy each month. Famous past clients include Mel Gibson, Andy Dick, and Stephen Baldwin.

Passages doesn’t use 12-Step methods. Instead, they see substance use disorder as a treatable condition with root causes that can be addressed. Their holistic approach includes hypnotherapy, acupuncture, and massage alongside traditional talk therapy.

The center offers shared or private rooms with access to lounge areas and multiple pools. On-site chefs prepare nutritious meals customized to your dietary needs.

luxury celebrity rehab cirque lodge utah

3. Cirque Lodge

In the pristine nature of Utah, Cirque Lodge provides substance abuse and co-occurring disorder recovery in a lodge-style setting. Famous clients have included Cara Delevigne, Demi Moore, Lindsay Lohan, and Kirsten Dunst.

Cirque Lodge incorporates the 12 Steps along with other evidence-based therapies. They also offer unique experiential treatments like equine therapy. Clients enjoy private bedrooms with en suite bathrooms in a cozy environment.

The campus provides plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature, with stunning views and outdoor activities in the sunny Utah weather.

luxury celebrity treatment neoviva lucerne lakeside swiss

4. NEOVIVA

This Swiss rehab center operates discreetly within a hotel on Lake Lucerne. With no signage or staff uniforms, clients look just like any other hotel guest. Treatment sessions take place in a private section away from other guests.

NEOVIVA maintains a 1:3 staff-to-client ratio and treats just 5 clients at a time. Each private room overlooks the lake. Clients have access to all hotel amenities, including a sauna, restaurant, and outdoor pool. You can even bring your pet.

Their holistic approach includes wellness treatments like yoga, breath work, and Qigong. Weekend activities might include forest hikes, trips to nearby villages, and time at the famous lake.

aton center celebrity rehab san diego

5. AToN Center

Located on 10 acres in San Diego, AToN Center provides privacy and luxury. They offer both 12-Step and non-12-Step approaches. Their treatment combines evidence-based, holistic, and trauma-informed therapies.

Clients receive 4 hours of therapy daily, including 3 hours of group therapy and 1 hour of individual therapy sessions. Family therapy is available weekly. The center doesn’t restrict access to devices as long as they don’t interfere with treatment.

Holistic treatment options include weekly acupuncture, massage, personal training, yoga, and hypnotherapy. Clients can also enjoy hiking, painting classes, meditation, and Reiki energy healing.

luxury rehab retreat istana bespoke health ibiza

6. Istana Bespoke Health 

Istana takes privacy to the extreme by treating just one client at a time. They have locations in Ibiza, Bali, and Barbados, each offering a private villa for recovery. Family members can join if the treatment team agrees it would be helpful.

The program offers completely customized treatment using evidence-based approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Privacy measures include unmarked villas, private airport pickups, and staff trained in confidentiality.

Each client receives support from a butler, personal chef, and life coach, among others. Free-time activities include island tours, cooking classes, music making, and dance lessons.

clinic les alpes exclusive celebrity addiction treatment center

7. Clinic Les Alpes

A luxury chalet in the Swiss mountains, Clinic Les Alpes treats addiction, mental health disorders, eating disorders, burnout, and more. Their world-renowned practitioners create personalized treatment plans using advanced testing and assessments.

Clients enjoy private bedrooms and amenities like a sauna, swimming pool, mountain views, and a gym. Every aspect of treatment is tailored to individual needs, including nutritional care.

The stunning Alpine setting provides a peaceful backdrop for recovery, away from the pressures of public life.

private celebrity rehab center raindrum byron bay pool villa

8. Raindrum

Raindrum offers ultra-private mental health and addiction treatment in various settings. Clients choose between several private residences, either on the beach or in the countryside. All therapy takes place one-on-one, including talk therapy and personal training.

This center treats addiction along with co-occurring conditions like burnout, depression, and anxiety. They offer experiential therapies like surf therapy, equine therapy, dance, and photography, as well as creative options like art therapy, pottery, and language learning.

Treatment is completely individualized, with staff coming to your residence rather than meeting in a clinical setting. A full support team includes housekeepers and a personal chef.

exclusive celebrity rehab facility sanctuary vancouver island bc

9. The Sanctuary Vancouver Island

This bespoke center offers high-end treatment for various needs. Beyond addiction and mental health, they focus on chronic pain management, post-operative care, and weight stabilizing.

The Sanctuary Vancouver Island combines evidence-based and alternative treatments, such as CBT with transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). More than 100 on-call specialists support your recovery process, from chiropractors to psychiatrists.

Clients stay in private residences on Vancouver Island near the shore, in the forest, or somewhere in between. Between sessions, you can enjoy meals from your personal chef, go whale watching, or explore by seaplane.

Finding Recovery as a Celebrity

Getting help for addiction doesn’t have to mean giving up luxury or privacy. These exclusive drug rehab centers prove you can heal while maintaining comfort and discretion. 

The most effective addiction treatment centers combine evidence-based therapies with holistic approaches tailored to your needs. They maintain strict confidentiality via security measures, unmarked facilities, and staff training. And after treatment, you’ll take valuable coping skills with you, whether you’re heading back to the spotlight or to your private life.

Ready to start your journey back to well-being? Visit our collection of luxury treatment centers to find the perfect match for your needs and lifestyle.

FAQs

Q: How effective are celebrity rehab centers in treating addiction?

A: Celebrity rehab centers can be highly effective when they combine luxury with evidence-based treatments. They typically employ qualified professionals and maintain low client-to-staff ratios. Success rates vary by individual, but many clients find the personalized approach and comfortable environment help them engage better in treatment.

Q: What can I expect at a luxury rehab center?

A: Expect private accommodations, gourmet meals, and amenities like pools and spas. Treatment usually includes a combination of individual therapy, support groups, and holistic options like massage or acupuncture. Many centers allow access to phones and laptops, with recreational activities available. Low staff-to-client ratios ensure personalized care.

Q: How do I find the best celebrity alcohol rehab center?

A: Consider your needs, budget, and preferred location. Look for centers specializing in alcohol addiction with experienced, licensed staff and evidence-based approaches. Ask about detox if needed. Read reviews and ask questions about outpatient program options, privacy policies, and aftercare planning.

Q: How much does it cost to stay at a celebrity rehab center?

A: Mental health or substance abuse treatment costs at luxury rehabs typically range from $30,000 to $100,000+ per month, depending on the center and services provided.

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Privacy in Rehab: How to Keep Your Treatment Confidential

Addiction can affect anyone, including public figures and those in high-profile positions. For these clients, concerns around confidentiality can be one of the biggest barriers when it comes to seeking treatment.

Because of this, privacy is among the most important considerations when choosing a rehab. 

The good news is that you have options. In general, rehabs are at least held to clinical standards of patient confidentiality, and due to the sensitive nature of addiction treatment, most are located in discreet premises and take measures to protect your privacy. Some premium programs cater specifically to clients who need extra seclusion, with many featuring private villas and exclusively one-on-one treatment sessions. Other treatment centers also focus on confidentiality and understand that for certain clientele, like celebrities and recognizable figures, anonymity is essential.  

Understanding the protection you’re entitled to in clinical settings, and learning what to look for in a residential rehab, can give you the peace of mind you need to focus on your recovery.  

Why Privacy Matters

Recovery is a highly personal journey. If opening up to others about your struggle isn’t something you feel comfortable with, that choice is completely valid. 

While mental health stigma is decreasing1 thanks to growing visibility, coming out about a substance use disorder can, unfortunately, have consequences in some cases. In a 2017 study published in Addiction Research & Theory, researchers found that the stigma of being identified as someone struggling with addiction2 can have personal, medical and professional consequences similar to those who are dealing with mental illness. These consequences can be especially high-impact for those who are in the public eye. 

Celebrities, politicians, and high-profile businesspeople often choose to pursue more discreet treatment options. Fortunately, many centers have exclusive programs that cater specifically to this need.

How You’re Protected by Clinical Standards

Healthcare providers in the U.S., including rehab centers, must adhere to certain privacy protection laws. Two important ones that concern addiction treatment include the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, or HIPAA3 and 42 CFR Part 2.4

HIPAA

HIPAA is a privacy law that enforces national standards to prevent the sharing of health information of individual patients without their consent or knowledge. Under this law, you have the right to access and examine your healthcare records and can request amendments or accounting of disclosure of your protected health information.

All healthcare providers, health plans, businesses and healthcare clearinghouses must comply with HIPAA.

paracelsus confidentiality
Paracelsus Recovery in Zurich, Switzerland treats only one client at a time in their completely bespoke program.

42 CFR Pt. 2

While HIPAA applies to all medically-related information, 42 CFR Part 2 applies specifically to those who will enter, who have entered, or who have already gone through addiction treatment programs. 

Under this law, rehab centers are prohibited from disclosing any individual information that identifies or indicates that the patient has dealt with addiction. This is so that people in recovery aren’t treated unfairly in cases of employment, child custody, or divorce. Without your written consent, treatment centers are unable to share any of your information, even with other medical facilities and practitioners.

42 CFR Part 2 applies to any entity that provides a recovery program, so all programs in the U.S. must adhere to this federal law. 

As for facilities outside the U.S., the laws can differ significantly. For example, in Canada, the Privacy Act of 1985 prevents treatment centers from sharing any mental or physical health information5 that might be harmful to the patient.

Because privacy levels can vary from program to program, it’s best to ask admissions staff at centers you’re considering what steps they take to ensure privacy and what kind of regulatory oversight they have in this area. 

While these protection laws are designed to keep the information of rehab center patients safe, there are still ways you can ensure extra layers of privacy if discretion is a major concern.  

Privacy at Different Addiction Treatment Programs

Whether you’re looking for a residential rehab program or an intensive outpatient program (IOP), certain markers can help you identify which ones offer a more confidential experience. On the most exclusive end of the spectrum are luxury rehab centers that cater specifically to clients who need to keep a low profile. 

Residential Rehabs

Here are some of the ways residential rehab programs can offer a more private experience: 

Distance From Your Community
For many people, the fear of bumping into familiar faces during or on the way to rehab prevents them from starting treatment. With residential rehabs, you live onsite for the duration of your program. Removing yourself from your everyday environment not only reduces the chances of being recognized, but also reduces circumstantial triggers. This gives many people the comfort they need to focus on their recovery. 

Discreet Locations
Luxury inpatient rehabs are often located in remote, naturally beautiful settings, which offer the added benefit of total seclusion. These peaceful, awe-inspiring surroundings are the perfect backdrop for inner healing, says Dr. Jasleen Chhatwal, Chief Medical Officer of Sierra Tucson in Arizona:

“Trying to heal in a main metropolis, where you hear cars, sirens and noise is not very conducive. When clients come to Sierra Tucson for treatment, suddenly they’re in a quiet space without extraneous sound. There’s no interference from the outside world and people can really focus inward and take care of themselves.”  

Many luxury rehabs aren’t recognizable as treatment centers from the outside, and some don’t even publicly list their location. 

An Extra Layer of Privacy at Destination Rehabs
If you’re looking for anonymity, you may consider traveling to a destination rehab where you have even more space from your usual surroundings. Local culture can even play into which destination is more appropriate for those seeking an escape from the public eye. 

Jan Gerber, CEO of Paracelsus in Zurich comments on Switzerland’s non-sensationalist culture, and how it can be attractive for clients who want to avoid media attention:

“Confidentiality is Switzerland’s second name. Some of our A-list celebrity clients will go to a local Starbucks, and while they’re recognized, they’re not in the news. Local tabloids don’t write about it and they’re not harassed for autographs either.” 

mercui confidentiality
Mercui Recovery, a single-client rehab with locations in Malibu, Aspen and Costa Palma, Mexico offers a full continuum of care on-site, from initial detox to aftercare.

Privacy Options for Intensive Outpatient Programs

Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) are for those who don’t need 24/7 care or medical detox. This could be a good option for people who have a milder addiction diagnosis, or as a step-down from a residential rehab program. Some studies show that IOPs are just as effective as residential rehabs,6 as they offer more intensive schedules with additional hours of therapy in comparison to standard outpatient programs. 

If you’re looking into an IOP but are concerned about privacy, keep the following in mind: 

Some IOPs Cater to Your Schedule 
Some luxury rehabs offer IOPs as a step down from residential rehab or as a standalone program. 

These treatment centers understand that many clients who want to attend intensive treatment still need to keep up with their daily responsibilities. Most of their programs are designed to fit your schedule, and are located in metro areas that are more accessible from where you live. 

Passages Malibu in California, for example, has an IOP program designed to help graduates of residential treatment integrate back into daily life. They understand that this is an opportunity for clients to return to work and other day-to-day responsibilities while still receiving a high level of support for their recovery journey.

Virtual IOPs Offer Extra Privacy 
With telehealth on the rise, many treatment providers now offer a virtual IOP option. This is especially beneficial if you’re nervous about being seen at a treatment center. Usually, you can design your schedule to avoid causing any disruptions at work. Additionally, many people feel more comfortable attending treatment from the privacy of their own homes. 

A few luxury rehabs across the United States offer virtual IOPs, including All Points North Lodge in Colorado, Inspire Malibu in California and The Meadows in Arizona. 

A small number of rehabs cater specifically to high-profile clients who need very high levels of privacy. They place a special focus into ensuring client comfort and utmost confidentiality. These centers may be in isolated locations, and some even accept only one client at a time.

Paracelsus 

Paracelsus in Zurich, Switzerland is one of the world’s leading and most exclusive luxury rehabs. Catering to the ultra-wealthy, including politicians, celebrities and royalty, their program is designed for those who need to remain completely discreet: they take in only one client at a time. Founded in 2012 as a family business, Paracelsus boasts an incredibly tailored treatment experience, with a team of over 15 therapists and doctors who care for one client. 

During treatment, clients stay at their exclusive lakefront residence, featuring penthouse apartments with a main bedroom and ensuite bathroom plus an additional room for an on-site therapist. Stays here also include a private butler and housekeeper. 

Paracelsus goes to great lengths to accommodate their clients–their CEO Jan Gerber explains why:

“There’s a group of people who are underserved when it comes to addiction and mental health treatment. These are people who come from money or power and require 100% confidentiality and a place they can trust. They have a very specific background and need comprehensive care tailored to their situation. It’s important for our clients to feel at home without any disruption to the lifestyle they’re used to. Such disruptions can be incredibly negative for treatment.”

the banyans confidentiality
The Banyans in Brisbane, Australia takes no more than 8 clients at a time at their luxury residence on 13, secluded acres.

Mercui Recovery 

Mercui Recovery prides itself on its high standards of discreet care. As a top luxury treatment center, their private residences rest amongst some of the most scenic and tranquil surroundings in Aspen, Colorado; Malibu Canyon, California; Ibiza, Spain; and the Pacific coast of Mexico. They take in one client at a time, and you can choose from one of their many locations or select an in-home option. 

Clients can expect five-star service and exclusivity at Mercui Recovery, with a team of dedicated professionals for 1:1 treatment. Their treatment program is hyper-tailored to each individual, with clients ranging from politicians to business elites. Here you’re offered the full continuum of care, from initial detoxification to intensive aftercare.

The Banyans 

The Banyans in Brisbane, Australia is an exclusive treatment center that caters to the privacy needs of clients and places emphasis on the clinical aspect of care. Taking in no more than 8 people at a time, clients are accommodated in a luxury residence on a secluded 13 acres overlooking lush hills. 

Known as Australia’s most therapeutically intense private treatment program, they offer over 9, 1:1 treatments with 6 medically trained doctors as part of your clinical team.

Keeping privacy at the forefront, association of clients with The Banyans is never disclosed. This means they use personal names instead of ‘The Banyans’ on booking and reservations, no uniforms with their logo and unbranded cars for transportation. 

They also offer a 14-day virtual program called The Banyans at Home for those who prefer to receive treatment from the comfort and privacy of their own house.

For a deeper dive into exclusive, ultra-private addiction treatment programs, see our guide to single-client luxury rehabs.

Your Privacy, Protected 

Your ability to focus on recovery and healing can make your addiction treatment experience that much more impactful. Recovery is a sensitive process that shouldn’t be hindered by external factors like privacy issues. 

In addition to standard protections, there are many ways luxury rehabs centers can cater to clientele in the public eye, with solutions that range from single-client intakes to discreet transportation to and from facilities. 

You deserve a safe space for recovery and healing. See our collection of select luxury rehabs to discover a center that could be the perfect fit for you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Privacy in Rehab

How can I ensure privacy during rehab treatment?

When choosing a rehab program, consider facilities that prioritize privacy and confidentiality. Look for rehabs located in discreet premises, offering private accommodations and 1:1 treatment sessions. When calling a treatment center, ask what measures they take to protect your privacy. This knowledge can give you the peace of mind you need to focus on recovery.

Why is privacy important in rehab?

Privacy matters in rehab because addiction recovery is a personal journey. Seeking treatment in a confidential setting helps avoid potential consequences of stigma. Luxury rehab centers often have exclusive programs tailored to clients who need extra privacy, ensuring their anonymity is respected throughout the treatment process.

How can I find a rehab program that offers privacy?

Choosing a program that’s not located in your home community can provide an extra layer of privacy for your treatment experience. Luxury rehabs often have discreet locations in remote and naturally beautiful settings. For those opting for an intensive outpatient program (IOP), luxury rehabs may offer flexible schedules and even virtual IOP options for added privacy and convenience.

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Athletes and Addiction: Can You Attend Rehab Without It Becoming a Headline?

Athletes-and-addiction

Professional athletes battle with keeping up with the competition, and performance-enhancing drugs are one such way to do so.

But what about when athletes begin abusing drugs or other destructive behavioral patterns outside of the workplace? When depression and isolation overcome an athlete off the field?

Addiction in sport is quite common. And due to the nature of the work, it can be difficult for athletes to both accept and receive the help they need without it destroying their career. Yet, if you carry on without getting help, you put everything at risk—your career, your health, and even your life.

Michael Phelps lost his sponsorship deal with Kellogg’s1 when he was pictured smoking cannabis. Montee Ball’s NFL career was short-lived due to struggles with alcohol and depression.2 Chris Herren’s professional basketball career ended due to addiction;3 paramedics revived him several years later from a heroin overdose.

If you’re a professional athlete, here’s how you can attend rehab and get help without landing in the headlines.

1. Leave the Country

Some countries thrive on celebrity culture.

Their people soak in celebrity problems like they’re their own. But there are countries where celebrities can walk down the street without hassle (and attend rehab without landing in the tabloids).

Switzerland is renowned for its security, privacy and non-sensationalism. The country has some of the most exclusive rehab centers in the world. They prioritize your privacy and ensure that the tabloids can’t get to you.

Many centers here offer individual therapy and bespoke treatments so that you can get the help you need without fear of getting caught by reporters.

To find out more about rehab in Switzerland, watch our video series on Swiss rehab centers.

2. Get Exclusive Treatment, Tailored to You

If you’re a celebrity athlete struggling with addiction and you want to get help in privacy, consider avoiding group therapy sessions. While other people in therapy might not tell your story to the news, they may sell it at another point in the future.

Keeping out of the tabloids is about risk reduction. The fewer people that see you, the less likely your story will leak.

Attending private individual treatment that is personalized to you is one way to do that. Some centers, such as Tikvah Lake Recovery in Florida or The Dawn Rehab in Chiang Mai, help you stay off the grid.

3. Get the Tabloids to Sign a Super-Injunction

Before you go to rehab, you can take steps with the media to legally inform them that they can’t report on particular issues for the sake of selling a story.

In the U.K., a super-injunction4 is an effective way of minimizing reported stories about your rehab. However, it uses the term “reported stories” because it’s becoming difficult to avoid stories leaking on social sites like Twitter.

Ryan Giggs’ case is a famous example. He sought an injunction to protect his identity over an alleged affair with a reality TV contestant, as well as a super-injunction to protect himself against an affair he had with his brother’s wife for eight years.

While these stories were eventually leaked and brought to light by media sources, a super-injunction can be an effective way of reducing your risk of making the headlines, especially if your story is personal to you and uncontroversial.

4. Tell Your Team You’re on Holiday or Hiatus

In most cases, tabloid news stories are leaked from the inside. It’s not unusual for a member of your team to sell your story to make a quick buck. And while we encourage you to only work with trusted people, that isn’t always the case.

To minimize your risk of getting “caught in rehab,” avoid telling people. It might seem like simple advice, but money buys secrets, and the media has a lot of money.

Your team only needs to know that you’re away on holiday or hiatus; they don’t need to know more details.

5. Be the First to Share About It

This is definitely counterintuitive and not for everyone. If you don’t want to be in the headlines for a drug or alcohol problem or other mental health issues, submitting an honest, transparent statement to media sources or posting an update on your social media accounts is the last thing you would choose to do.

However, this approach may work really well. You may desire, for instance, “to be the change you want to see in the world” and show that it’s okay to seek out treatment for addiction and mental health issues. That it’s actually the best thing you can do and a sign of strength not weakness. You may feel that being straightforward and honest about your situation will actually help mitigate speculation and gossip, especially if you’re concerned about it leaking anyway. Although all were in blackmail situations, consider Alexander Hamilton with the Reynolds Pamphlet, Jeff Bezos’s Medium article,5 and John Skipper’s resignation statement.6 If you do choose this route, be prepared for potential consequences.

Be Sure to Seek the Help You Need

With all this said, the most important factor about attending rehab is to get the right help for you.

Many locations across the globe have unique and tailored solutions that will work for some athletes but not for others.

Be sure to do your homework on the rehab center you’re interested in and choose one based on the treatment available and the expert clinicians who work there. These clinicians, after all, are the ones who will help you get sober and stay sober.

To get the specialized treatment you may need, explore our collection of rehabs across the globe to learn about pricing, their treatment approach, clinical team, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rehab Privacy for Athletes

Where can athletes with drug addiction get help?

Help is available for athletes struggling with addiction:

• Your primary care physician may refer you to treatment.
• A specialized mental health professional can guide your recovery.
• Find an addiction treatment program specifically for athletes. Some have unique therapies like HBOT. 
• Join a 12-Step or non-12-Step support group in addition to a treatment program.

Can athletes go to rehab without anyone knowing? 

It’s possible. Single-client rehabs offer completely private treatment. Going abroad is another option. Countries like Switzerland have strict privacy laws and some of the world’s most exclusive rehabs.

How can athletes attend rehab in private?

You can attend rehab abroad, or get personalized treatment at a private rehab that offers individualized care, private rooms, and doesn’t require group therapy.