Jessica Simpson: Her Candid Account of Overcoming Alcohol Addiction and Path to Sobriety
Jessica Simpson's inspiring journey to sobriety, starting in November 2017, has been marked by her courageous openness about her battle with alcohol addiction
After battling alcohol addiction, Jessica Simpson now embraces her sobriety, finding strength to overcome past traumas. However, her struggle with dependence reached a critical point in October 2017, when she failed to be present for her children, Maxwell, Ace, and Birdie, whom she shares with her husband Eric Johnson, on Halloween.
"I don't even know who prepared them. I was in a dazed and confused state, just longing for sleep," Simpson confessed in a January 2020 Today interview. "I didn't accompany my family for trick-or-treating, nor did I truly show up for them. I merely took the picture, deceiving the world into thinking I was present."
The following day, Simpson made a commitment to give up drinking and seek therapy. "I suddenly realized that I needed to surrender," she shared with Today host Hoda Kotb. "I simply wish to continue on the current path I'm on, and now, in this stage of my life, I possess the strength to face any challenges that may come my way. I no longer have a refuge to escape to that would numb me from truly experiencing and overcoming them."
Simpson celebrated her sixth year of sobriety in November 2023. Keep scrolling to read her candid quotes about the journey:
Jessica Simpson Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images
January 2020
"I found myself spiraling out of control, unable to keep up with my own actions... and alcohol was to blame," Simpson revealed to Kotb on Today. "Every day, I would tell myself, 'I'll stop soon. I'll cut back.'"
The renowned fashion designer further elaborated that she initially failed to acknowledge her struggle with alcohol. "I completely lost sight of who I was," she admitted. "I always had a sparkling cup, constantly filled to the brim with alcohol. It finally dawned on me that it was time to admit defeat. I had to let go, and I was ready. I won't let another day slip away... I will be fully present."
David Livingston/Getty Images
Jessica Simpson
February 2020
During a recent interview with Buzzfeed News' AM to DM, Simpson disclosed that she had already spoken with her older children, Maxwell and Ace, about her battle with addiction. This proactive approach was driven by her anticipation of her kids hearing about it from their peers at school.
“Although my children are aware that I refrain from drinking wine because it tends to make me act silly,” she added, "it's important to note that alcohol has never caused me to become aggressive. People may not have been aware of my struggle, but they did observe that towards the end, I was becoming overwhelmed, losing touch with myself, and lacking presence in social settings. Therefore, when I explained the situation to my kids, they fully grasped the fact that I am simply prioritizing my happiness and well-being, living my life to the fullest!"
February 2020
In her Open Book memoir, Simpson revealed her challenges and shared how she turned to Tylenol PM pills to aid her sleep due to the trauma of her childhood abuse. Writing about her experience, she expressed that each pill seemed like a magical remedy, granting her the freedom she needed. With the pills, she no longer relied on her sister, Ashlee, to sleep and felt a newfound sense of independence. Far from feeling dependent, she found that the pills actually empowered her.
Jessica Simpson Kevin Mazur/WireImage
March 202o
While working on Open Book, Simpson began perusing her previous journals and came to the realization of "the extent of unresolved matters," she disclosed during an interview on Ryan Seacrest's radio program.
August 2020
"I was reflecting on the person I used to be and the mindset I had, and I truly longed for that version of myself. Consequently, it was during this period that I began to spiral downward, drowning my sorrows in alcohol as a means to escape. However, it dawned on me that these were issues I needed to confront and discuss openly."
“Amid the COVID-19 health crisis, people often ask me if I crave a drink or if my children drive me up the wall," Simpson shared during an interview on SiriusXM's The Jess Cagle Show. “However, I have no desire to drink during this time. It feels like a true blessing. Once I let go and surrendered, I never looked back. What's even better is that my husband joined me in this journey, providing incredible support."
November 2021
Four years after giving up alcohol, Simpson shared a photo of herself that was described as "unrecognizable."
In an Instagram post, she expressed her journey of self-discovery and her decision to reclaim her light and triumph over her internal battle for self-respect. She explained that she needed to stop drinking alcohol to break free from the repetitive thoughts and exhaustion it caused. Simpson wanted to experience pain as a way to strengthen herself and carry it proudly. She aspired to live as a leader, breaking cycles and moving forward without any regrets or remorse for her choices in life. She aimed to embrace the beauty of the world.
Jessica Simpson Courtesy of Jessica Simpson/Instagram
November 2022
Simpson took to Instagram to reflect on her five-year journey without relying on alcohol as a means of escapism. In this time, she has learned a valuable lesson - that she is capable of overcoming any obstacle that comes her way. With a strong and determined mindset, she has discovered her own potential to achieve anything she sets her mind to. By living in the present moment, she has found deep inspiration and a sense of purpose. Simpson's honesty and genuine care for others are the driving forces behind her continued success in her sobriety.
If you or someone you are acquainted with is experiencing substance abuse problems, dial the toll-free and confidential Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 for round-the-clock access to free information.
