The world of professional wrestling is certainly not devoid of drug problems. But what can we expect from an industry that pretty much invented the phrase “bigger is better”? Giants of all sorts have entertained the public for years. They smash each other in a tiny square ring. But, the problems outside the arena can be more painful than body slams or chokeholds. Just ask WWE Legend Shawn Michaels who suffered from addiction to drugs.
He was possibly one of the most iconic wrestlers in history. Over the course his career, he’s become a bit of a household name for kids who grew up in the 1980s and 1990s. But he was not always the mighty man we saw on TV. While the wrestler has cleaned up his act, there was a time when he suffered from severe drug and alcohol problems. Let’s take a closer look at WWE Legend Shawn Michaels and his inspiration for overcoming his addiction to drugs.
Oblivious to the Problem
In an interview with the WWE in 2017, Michaels explained how he first started using drugs. This happened after he joined World Wrestling Entertainment. The problem continued to escalate after he joined Degeneration X. This was one of the most controversial yet wildly popular team-ups in the company’s history. Both inside and outside the wrestling ring, the aptly named Heartbreak Kid was known for his aggressive, rebellious personality. Drug-related deaths are not uncommon among wrestlers and other professional athletes. But, Michaels explains how he thought he was invincible. Nevertheless, he mentions how the connection between Michael Shawn Hickenbottom (his real name) and the stage persona of Shawn Michaels began to blur together.
The Prospect of Fatherhood
As with all things in life, though, reality crashed down on Michaels like a ton of bricks. In 1999, he learned his new wife Rebecca Curci was pregnant with their first child. At the time, Michaels vowed to clean up his act before their baby was born. However, the addiction continued to eat away at his mind and body. After waking up from a haze one day, Michaels watched his son crawling over him and heard the child say “Daddy’s tired.” It was just the kind of wake-up call he needed.
Nowadays, Michaels serves as a Bible teacher in San Antonio, Texas (his hometown). He still returns to the WWE ring on occasion.
Seeking Treatment for Drug Addiction or Alcoholism
For individuals suffering from drug addiction and alcoholism, the path to healing can sometimes feel like a distant flicker of light in the darkness. Sometimes, you may feel like you are sinking into the muck. You may feel unable to reach your prize. However, you must stay strong and be patient. With the right resources and a little bit of love for yourself, you can easily overcome your sickness and become healthy once more.
If you are suffering from a severe case of drug addiction or alcoholism or have a friend or loved one who is coping with this illness, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of alcohol withdrawal and detox. They will guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.
