Overcoming Addiction and Finding Strength: Duff McKagan's Journey

TLDRDuff McKagan, former Guns N' Roses bassist, shares his struggle with addiction, mental health, and his journey to recovery. He found solace in martial arts and meditation, and now advocates for open discussions about mental health.

Key insights

⚡️Duff McKagan experienced his first panic attack at 16 and turned to alcohol and drugs as a coping mechanism.

💪The progressive nature of addiction led Duff to dependency on Xanax, up to 20 pills a day.

🥊Martial arts, specifically yōuquilin, helped Duff find a safe space to cope with panic attacks.

Duff emphasizes the importance of open discussions about mental health and the need for support networks.

🌱Duff's journey serves as an inspiration for those battling addiction and mental health issues.

Q&A

How did Duff McKagan cope with panic attacks?

Duff turned to martial arts and meditation, which provided him with a safe space to deal with panic attacks.

Did Duff McKagan struggle with addiction?

Yes, Duff battled alcohol and drug addiction for many years before finding sobriety.

What role did shame play in Duff's journey?

Shame and disappointment in himself drove Duff to self-medicate and later confront his addiction.

How has Duff McKagan's experience inspired others?

Duff's journey serves as an inspiration to many who are battling addiction and mental health issues.

Why is open discussion about mental health important?

Open discussions about mental health help reduce stigma and create supportive environments for those in need.

Timestamped Summary

01:22Duff McKagan experienced his first panic attack at the age of 16 and sought solace in alcohol and drugs.

07:40As a black belt in martial arts, Duff found a safe space to cope with panic attacks through meditation and spiritual practice.

11:59Duff's journey towards recovery involved confronting shame and opening up to others about his struggles.

12:53Duff's experience has inspired many who are battling addiction and mental health issues.