Brad Pitt Talks About Resuming Drinking After Seven Years of Sobriety
In a recent interview with Esquire, Brad Pitt opened up about his journey with alcohol, revealing that after seven years of sobriety, he has started drinking again—but in moderation. This candid admission has sparked discussions among addiction specialists about the risks involved in returning to alcohol after a significant period of abstinence.
Pitt shared, “I was sober for seven years. And then I got back off the wagon,” explaining that he now drinks “in a more restrained manner” and avoids having “big quantities” of alcohol. He admitted to moments of overconfidence, recognizing that he needs to be careful in managing his drinking.
The actor had previously discussed his sober life in a 2019 interview, where he revealed that he spent 18 months in Alcoholics Anonymous. At that time, he decided to stop drinking, saying, “I had taken things as far as I could take it, so I removed my drinking privileges.”
Jessica Steinman, an addiction specialist based in Los Angeles, expresses caution regarding individuals who try to return to drinking after overcoming addiction. She warns that “testing the waters” can be risky, suggesting that people with past issues may not be able to handle it successfully. She emphasizes that while some individuals might integrate alcohol into their lives again, many do not achieve long-term success.
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) defines alcohol use disorder as an ongoing inability to control drinking, despite negative effects on various aspects of life. This disorder can vary in severity.
Steinman explains that recovery from addiction is a lifelong battle. She compares managing alcoholism to dealing with chronic illnesses such as diabetes or heart disease. “You have to manage this health issue,” she says, stressing that the brain’s response to substances can change permanently.
Returning to drinking, even in moderation, can indeed restart harmful patterns, according to Steinman. Symptoms to watch for include increased consumption, erratic behavior, drinking alone, and drinking during the day. It is important for anyone noticing concerning behaviors to speak with a professional for guidance.
For those with alcohol use disorder, the NIAAA generally encourages total abstinence to improve the chances of long-term recovery. However, they acknowledge that some people can drink occasionally without falling back into problematic habits. The decision should be made collaboratively by the individual and their healthcare provider.
In conclusion, while Pitt’s approach may work for him, experts advise caution for others who might be tempted to follow a similar path. Each recovery journey is distinct, and understanding personal limits is crucial for everyone navigating these challenges.
