Liza Minnelli is looking back at one of the most difficult periods of her life. The Academy Award winner has shared new details about the addiction struggles that eventually pushed her to seek professional help. Now, Minnelli is reflecting on the fear she felt before entering treatment for the first time in 1984. She also credits several people who helped her begin her addiction recovery.
Liza Minnelli recalls her addiction struggles, self-medication and decision to seek professional help in 1984
In an Aug. 18 Instagram post, Minnelli described what hitting bottom looked like for her. She recalled keeping alcohol and pills at her Manhattan apartment and using them to numb difficult emotions.
However, moving to California did not solve the problem. Minnelli said she found herself in the same cycle and eventually realized, “I was out of options.”
In 1984, Liza Minnelli entered rehab for the first time. The singer admitted she was “scared to death” before getting professional help. Still, her sister Lorna Luft helped make sure she got there.
According to Minnelli, Luft even bought her a hot dog to persuade her to board Frank Sinatra’s private jet for the trip to treatment. Minnelli also thanked Michael Feinstein, Terrence Flannery, and Dr. Lawrence D. Piro for helping save her life.
Meanwhile, Minnelli reflected on the environment surrounding her substance abuse. She said some people around her encouraged her drug use, while others failed to push her to stop.
Her relationship with Sinatra stretched back decades. Minnelli previously recalled how closely he supported her family after her mother Judy Garland’s death.
Minnelli later returned to treatment more than once. However, she has now spoken proudly about her long-term sobriety and the work required to maintain it.
For Minnelli, sharing the story of her first rehab stay appears to serve a larger purpose. Her account shows how frightening asking for help can feel, even when that decision becomes necessary.
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If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol or substance use, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) provides a free, confidential, 24/7 helpline at 1800-662-4357, as well as local treatment referral services.
