Profiles Of Addiction Recovery | Mel Gibson

Mel Gibson is well-known for his acting and directorial efforts. Some may recognize the actor from the film Braveheart while others may remember his direction of the film The Passion of the Christ. 

Despite skills in-front of and behind the camera, Gibson has been involved in countless controversies. His ex-partner Oksana Grigorieva accused him of domestic assault in 2010.

While dealing with both success and controversies, Gibson partook in substance abuse and suffered from mental health issues such as depression.

Mel Gibson’s History Of Substance Abuse

Gibson was arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) in 1984 for the first time. Years later, Gibson was once again arrested for drunk driving.

He was caught speeding in Malibu in 2006 by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. 

According to the police report and arresting officer, Gibson lashed out at the police in a tirade, making anti-semitic remarks against Jewish people, which became known to millions of people worldwide, with his remarks ultimately harming his career.

Mel Gibson’s Recovery Efforts

After his DUI in 1984, Gibson sought recovery for alcohol abuse but suffered from depression. In 2002, he would later reveal in an interview that he was manic depressive.

After his DUI in 2006, Gibson entered a treatment center for his drug and alcohol addiction. Later that year, Gibson sat down with Diane Sawyer to speak openly about his addictions.

Gibson also participated in the 12-step program Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) to further maintain sobriety.

To help others in recovery, Gibson supports the nonprofit organization Angels at Risk which helps raise awareness regarding alcohol and drug abuse among young adults.

About Mel Gibson

Actor Mel Gibson was born on January 3, 1956, in Peekskill, New York. He moved to Australia at a young age.

Before arriving in Hollywood, Gibson acted in numerous stage, cinema, and TV roles. Gibson received countless accolades from early in his career.

Not only did he star in and direct multiple, high-grossing box office hit films, he quickly became a household name. In 2017, Gibson received an Oscar nomination for directing Hacksaw Ridge, starring Andrew Garfield.

Notable Filmography

• Braveheart
• Hacksaw Ridge
• Lethal Weapon film series
• We Were Soldiers
• Signs
• What Women Want
• The Passion of the Christ
• Mad Max
• The Professor and the Madman

Find Drug Addiction Treatment Today

At ARK Behavioral Health, you’ll find a peaceful and structured environment to help ensure sobriety. Finding treatment is important and can result in recovery from drug use.

If you or a loved one are struggling with a mental health or substance use disorder, reach out to us to speak with one of our healthcare representatives. At our treatment center, we offer individualized programs to cater to your specific needs.

Contact us today.