Reality TV is thought to be a documentation of real-life events. However, these shows are actually staged, with production teams writing in drama and conflict to increase show ratings. Unfortunately, production requirements can often have negative effects on cast members. One such case was with Jason Wahler of MTV’s popular reality show, “Laguna Beach.” The star shared his experience in the “Behind the Velvet Rope” podcast, sharing how being a reality TV star worsened his addiction, eventually causing him to seek recovery.
Jason Wahler’s Addiction Struggles
Jason Wahler’s struggles with addiction began at age 18 before he participated in the hit show, “Laguna Beach.” The star continued to struggle with substance abuse until the age of 23, with several personal and legal issues in between. From 2006 to 2007, Wahler was arrested four different times because of crimes committed as a result of his alcoholism, ranging from assault to disorderly conduct. He was also arrested on March 19, 2010, for driving under the influence. Wahler went to 12 different rehabs throughout his many attempts at recovery and being on “Laguna Beach” was not helping him achieve sobriety.
Laguna Beach Worsening Wahler’s Addiction
Wahler felt like “Laguna Beach” was “adding fuel to the fire.” He was being paid to party and travel the world at the young age of 18. At the time, he thought he was living the dream. However, as time went on, Wahler began to feel the emotional effects of his addiction. Despite his many friends on the TV show, Wahler felt like he had no one to relate to, and no one to talk to for advice on what to do. Even though he went to rehab during his attempts at recovery, he did not take it seriously. When Wahler left the show, his addiction started to get worse as he was no longer in a routine keeping him accountable.
How Wahler Got Help for his Recovery
Wahler thanks his parents for helping him with his sobriety. He felt like the turning point of his addiction struggles was during a therapy session, when his dad said that his marriage was suffering, as a result of waiting to get a tragic phone call about his son. Wahler said that he felt “happy” getting to that low point of his addiction because it meant that he was finally ready to make a change and educate himself on how to heal. Even though Wahler has had slips during his sobriety, he always returns to recovery. Jason Wahler believes that it is important to be vulnerable and let people know that they are not alone when facing addiction or anything else that is hard to talk about in life.
Jason Wahler had problems with addiction that were getting him into trouble. Being on a reality TV show that encouraged constant partying and drinking did not help his situation. Leaving “Laguna Beach” and focusing on his sobriety was the best choice for Wahler. Ultimately, our health should be our number one priority. At Alta Loma, your health will always be the most important thing to us. We are committed to making sure that your sobriety is a success. Our transformative treatment facilities in Georgetown, Texas welcome men of all different ages in hopes of helping them live a life free from drugs and/or alcohol. We provide our patients with services such as individualized therapy, 12-step programs, therapeutic recreational activities, life and coping skills education, family treatment, and more. We understand how difficult it is when your environment perpetuates your addiction, and we are here to help you get back on track. Please call us at (866) 457-3843 to learn more.