In a candid interview featured in Vogue, model and actress Kaia Gerber has spoken about her older brother Presley Gerber’s ongoing battle with substance abuse and mental health issues. This revelations come as the 24-year-old reflects on the impact her brother’s struggles have had on her own life and their family dynamics. Presley, who is 27, has reportedly faced a decade-long struggle with drug addiction, a challenge that has profoundly influenced their family’s interactions.
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Kaia discussed in the interview how her brother’s situation has shaped her own perceptions and needs. “When something like that happens in a family, it kind of levels everyone,” she explained, noting that she often found herself prioritising her brother’s needs above her own. “I think that’s also why I started to self-identify as the easy one and never wanted to ask for help. Because it felt like too much to have two children who were needing,” she added.
The conversation around mental health and addiction is becoming increasingly prevalent, and in his statement shared on Instagram in December, Presley openly addressed his struggles with a variety of prescription medications, including Buprenorphine, Xanax, and Valium, which he had been taking to manage panic attacks. “Unfortunately, I’ve had a lot of loss in many different forms recently,” he stated, acknowledging that while this was not an excuse for his situation, it was a reason for his current circumstances.
Acknowledging his feelings of isolation, Presley expressed in his video that he hopes to connect with others facing similar challenges. “So you feel like you’re not alone, because that is how I feel most of the time,” he said. His frankness has been both a source of humility and a beacon of encouragement for others who may be struggling.
Kaia expressed admiration for Presley’s willingness to be open about his life. “My parents for most of our lives were very, very private and didn’t share anything,” she stated, noting the contrast between their upbringing and her brother’s current transparency. She recognised the significance of her brother’s choice to be human and relatable in a world where mental health issues are often stigmatized. “And trying to put a lid on something just makes the person feel like you’re ashamed of them,” she added.
The Gerber family, including their well-known parents, Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber, have faced these challenges together. Kaia has received support from her family as they navigate their individual paths. Just this past May, they attended a Los Angeles event to celebrate her collaboration with the fashion brand RE/DONE. This marked a significant milestone for Kaia, who serves as an investor, creative partner, and advisory board member for the brand.
The event also featured Kaia’s boyfriend, Lewis Pullman, with the couple sharing affectionate moments throughout the evening, showcasing the sense of family unity amid personal struggles. Support from loved ones can be crucial during difficult times, and the Gerber family’s public displays of affection and solidarity highlight their commitment to one another.
As awareness surrounding mental health continues to grow, the trends of openness and honesty are vital for dismantling stigma. Presley’s brave admission of his own struggles may provide comfort to many who feel isolated, while Kaia’s remarks underscore the importance of self-care and communication within families facing challenges.
For those grappling with mental health issues or substance abuse, it is crucial to reach out for help. Numerous resources are available for individuals seeking guidance during difficult times. If you or someone you know is in distress, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can be accessed at 988 or through their website at 988lifeline.org. Additionally, the SAMHSA helpline is a valuable resource for anyone dealing with substance abuse issues, available at 1-800-662-HELP.
In a society where mental health conversations are becoming more normalized, the Gerber siblings’ openness serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder that no one has to navigate their struggles alone.