It was revealed last week that alcohol played an overwhelming part in the death of Grammy-winning recording artist Amy Winehouse earlier this year. Winehouse, who had battled substance abuse issues for many years, was found to have died as a result of alcohol poisoning, being labeled a “death by misadventure” by the London court system. As new details emerge, it is still difficult to wrap your mind around someone so young and so promising falling prey to the nature of addiction. Toxicology reports show that her blood-alcohol level was five times above the legal limit and the singer was seen drinking unusually heavily throughout the week leading up to her death, which had been preceded by a bout of sobriety and abstinence from alcohol. She had also been released from a rehabilitation program only two months before, but immediately fought setbacks as her public persona crippled under the pressure of her addiction. Although Winehouse was aware of the dangers associated with heavy alcohol use, she had discussed the problem with her therapist and was adamant that she tackle it in her own way. No other drugs were found in the toxicology report, but three empty vodka bottles were discovered by police at her London flat. The only silver lining to emerge from this tragedy is the creation of the Amy Winehouse Foundation, which raises money for young people in Britain and elsewhere whose lives have been ravaged by ill health, disability, poverty and addiction. Her death is a strong lesson for anyone who thinks they are above the trappings of addiction, and unfortunately, she was unable to find the help she needed before it was too late. Substance abuse takes on many forms and there is no simple fix to solve the problem. The diversity between people, the substances they use, and the reactions to their addiction make it incredibly difficult for a “one-size-fits-all” mentality. For some, in-patient treatment is a necessary step to create a healthy, safe space to recover and work on the issues that have led to substance abuse in the first place. Where addiction is concerned, nothing is every guaranteed, but seeking help is always a positive step in the right direction. Addiction can affect anyone’s life, and unfortunately, Amy Winehouse is a testament to just how true that statement can be. (Photo via)
