Imagine the excitement of being accepted into one of the most renowned ballet companies in New York City. Also imagine the opportunities that await you at this magnificent location. Around the world, boys and girls work hard to ascend to the ranks of a professional dancer. Like athletes, these gifted performers push their bodies to the maximum level. They create visually stunning and spiritually moving pieces that interpret life, love, and adventure. So, could you imagine the horror of watching your friends and teammates start to crumble away as they consume illegal drugs? Unfortunately, this case is more common than you would think. In fact, drug abuse and addiction among dancers is unfortunately frequent. Let’s take a closer look and find out more information.
Working Hard, Playing Hard
When you spend your whole life training and conditioning, you have to wonder why a dancer would ever resort to using mind-altering, dangerous drugs in the first place. However, Simone Messmer (former dancer and current Principal of the Miami City Ballet) explained that the satin and tulle costumes are simply a cover for rigorous, painful activities that are designed to turn young women and men into living art. In fact, Messmer has added that dancers might be one of the most self-abusing groups of professionals on the planet. As a result, some performers will use drugs or drink alcohol to cope with the onslaught of stressful activities.
Pushing to the Extreme
In one report, Nadine Kaslow (resident psychologist at Atlanta Ballet) added that many dancers view themselves as invincible and impervious to harm. As a result, these men and women will not realize something is wrong until a terrible event takes place.
Initially, the partnership between drug addiction and professional dancers was first brought into the public spotlight after Gelsey Kirkland revealed her past issues with cocaine in Dancing on My Grave (1981). Only one year later after this confession, ABT star Patrick Blissell suffered from a drug overdose and died. In an even more disturbing twist, the Royal Danish Ballet was cast into public scrutiny when the media reported about cocaine abuse among its members.
Always remember that drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process. Our rehabilitation will guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
