Jackie O Henderson Reveals Three-Year Drug Addiction Battle and Commitment to Help Others
Jackie "O" Henderson has publicly revealed her three-year battle with drug addiction, detailing consumption of up to 24 codeine tablets and 14 sleeping pills daily, all coupled with alcohol. Having undergone treatment at the Betty Ford Clinic, she now shares her story through her memoir, pledging to donate all profits to support others facing addiction challenges.
Jackie "O" Henderson has opened up about her challenging three-year battle with addiction to painkillers, sleeping pills, and alcohol, which she detailed in her recent memoir. The KIIS FM radio star shared her experiences and pledged to donate the book's profits to support rehabilitation initiatives.
Jackie O's Struggle with Addiction
The 48-year-old host revealed that at the peak of her addiction, she was consuming an alarming combination of up to 24 codeine tablets and 14 sleeping pills daily, accompanied by alcohol. During a recent discussion on the Mental As Anyone podcast, she expressed disbelief at her survival, citing medical warnings that the dosage of sleeping pills she was taking could have led to fatal outcomes.
Turning Point and Rehab Admission
In 2022, Henderson admitted herself to the renowned Betty Ford Clinic, where she underwent a 28-day, 12-step rehabilitation program. Reflecting on her journey, she shared that she waited until she felt "sturdy enough" in her recovery to publicly discuss her addiction, emphasizing her commitment to maintaining her sobriety without succumbing to the pressures of public scrutiny.
Support and Criticism in the Aftermath
While Henderson has received significant support from fans and the public, she has also faced criticism regarding the accessibility of addiction treatment for many Australians. In response, she committed to donating all profits from her memoir, "The Whole Truth," to Odyssey House, Australia’s largest rehabilitation center, highlighting the disparity in access to care for those in need.
A Personal Journey Shared
Henderson's memoir delves into her long-hidden struggles with addiction, revealing that even those closest to her, including co-host Kyle Sandilands, were unaware of her battle until she publicly shared her story. Tearfully, she conveyed her mixed emotions about revealing her experiences, but expressed her hope that her narrative could serve to assist others facing similar challenges.
The Emotional Toll of Addiction
Describing her state during her addiction, Henderson spoke of feeling diminished, insecure, and alone. With only a few friends aware of her situation, she emphasized the importance of addressing her experiences authentically. Henderson is now eager to engage in open discussions about addiction, eager to help others navigate their own paths to recovery.
