**Paris Jackson Reflects on Sobriety and Addiction Struggles**
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Paris-Jackson-032426-55f8417247c349dca0d9f0634ab0f8f4.jpg)
Paris Jackson, the only daughter of the late pop icon Michael Jackson, has candidly discussed the impact of alcohol and drug addiction on her moral principles. In a recent interview on Jack Osbourne’s podcast, “Trying Not to Die,” Jackson shared her experiences with addiction and the “ugly behaviour” that ensued during her struggles.
Now aged 28, Jackson made a poignant statement regarding the changes in her character when under the influence of alcohol. “It’s really ugly behaviour in a moral way, because I was raised to be kind,” she explained. This sentiment captures the inner conflict she faced as her addiction overshadowed her upbringing, which emphasised kindness and compassion toward others.
Throughout the conversation, Jackson recounted her challenging path, which included years of self-hatred before she achieved six years of sobriety. Reflecting on the darker times, she recalled thoughts like, “Oh, I may be a liar, a cheater, a piece of s—, a thief, whatever, but I do have a moral compass.” However, she recognised that the moment she began drinking, that moral compass supposedly vanished. “I become a very vindictive person,” she admitted.
Jackson’s journey with addiction dates back to when she was just 17 years old. She revealed that there were clear indicators from an early age that set her apart from her peers. With a history of self-harm before ever experimenting with substances, Jackson noted, “I had weird relationships with overeating and food as a young kid.” This childhood behaviour, she suggests, was part of a broader struggle with addiction, which she has recognised in others who share similar experiences.
In the more recent months, Jackson has been open about her path towards recovery and the ongoing challenges she faces. With her newfound sobriety, she has taken to social media to document her life, showing both the joyful moments spent with friends and the quieter times she saves for reflection. “Getting sober ain’t always the indication that life is perfect,” she wrote in a heartfelt Instagram post. “A few years in it all got very, very hard.”
The singer-songwriter has also addressed her battle with treatment-resistant major depressive disorder, as well as complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). “If you’ve got this s—, or anything of the sort, you’re not alone. Hang in there, and if no one’s told you they love you today, I love you,” she encouraged her followers.
Jackson’s transparency regarding her mental health struggles and her journey through addiction has resonated with many. Her willingness to share personal experiences, including setbacks and victories, serves as a beacon of hope for those grappling with similar issues.
As she continues to navigate her life in recovery, Paris Jackson illustrates that healing is not linear, and the effects of addiction can linger. However, her commitment to her well-being—attending to her mental health while seeking to live authentically—provides a powerful narrative about resilience and personal growth.
With the world watching and the legacy of her father looming large, Paris Jackson stands as an example of courage in facing one’s demons and striving for a better future. Through her words, she inspires many to confront their own struggles, promising that recovery is possible despite the challenges that may arise along the way.