These are just some of many events that occurred in the past year, however there were also many celebrity deaths that occurred this past year as well, such as, Alice in Chains bassist Mike Star, singer Amy Winehouse, Jani Lane (front man of rock band Warrant), and Mikey Welsh (former Weezer bassist). Although this is not the most complete list of prominent people who have passed away this year, these people do have one thing in common, all their deaths were caused by substance abuse.

Many people hear about a celebrities battle with substance abuse and are given an inside look into how difficult it is to recover and get back on ones feet. However, sometimes these celebrities do not recover, which can be caused by a relapse in their treatment or their refusal to get help.

Although fame and stress from the public eye can push many celebrities to use drugs and alcohol, the average person can also be pushed to drugs and alcohol via stresses from work, family, school, or peer pressure.  You may see a bit of a pattern here, despite ones economic and social status, many people still have the same daily pressures and will look for things to alleviate these stresses.

If you are considering using alcohol and/or drugs to alleviate your stress, there are so many other things that one can do to de-stress. For example take up various forms of exercise, whether it be kickboxing, running, weightlifting, swimming, biking or yoga, all of these help to release endorphins, which are known to give a feeling of well-being.  Or take up a hobby, such as photography, volunteering, reading, playing an instrument, or cooking/baking, which allows you to distract yourself from everyday stresses.

Better yet, group activities act as a valuable support system allowing you to confine and talk with others who may be or have been in a similar situation as you. In addition these group activities also act as a form of encouragement. The group setting allows everyone to be able to see each other’s progress and accomplishments, which helps motivate everyone to continue their fitness regime or further develop their hobby.

Overall, abusing alcohol and/or drugs always makes things worse on your daily life, such as finances, health, family/friends, school and work. There is always a healthier and more beneficial way to alleviate ones pressures from everyday life, however it is your responsibility to make the decision between the healthier path, and the more destructive path.

Some celebrities who have overcome their substance abuse include, Robert Downey Jr., Drew Barrymore, Angelina Jolie, Elton John and David Bowie. All of these people, despite their fame, realized not only their potential in life but also how fragile life is, and have worked hard to overcome their addictions. Currently, many of these celebrities live sober and successful lives, showing that with hard work and dedication, anyone can overcome their obstacles and be able to live a full and happy life. 

Do you know of some more healthy ways to alleviate stress?

Do you have any resolutions or goals for the new year?