Known for his role as Spider-Man, British actor Tom Holland candidly shares his transformative journey to sobriety, which has greatly contributed to his current state of happiness. The actor, 27, says giving up alcohol for the past 18 months has made him “the happiest I’ve ever been in my life.”
In the podcast “On Purpose With Jay Shetty,” Holland recalls the events that led him to reconsider his drinking habits. After a “boozy December,” like many Brits, he decided to participate in “dry January,” intending to abstain from alcohol for a month. However, the actor was surprised by how much he missed drinking and worried about a potential alcohol problem.
In an effort to prove to himself that he was not dependent on alcohol, he extended his abstinence through February. Despite this, he found he was still grappling with the urge to drink, particularly in social settings. Recognizing that he might have been addicted to alcohol, he decided to stretch his sober streak until his birthday on June 1.
By the time his birthday arrived, Holland had experienced numerous health benefits from his sobriety. “I could sleep better. I could handle problems better,” Holland shares. He also noted improved mental clarity, healthier disposition, and better handling of stress, especially on the film set. The actor started questioning his previous attachment to alcohol and decided to commit to a sober lifestyle.
Holland’s strategy for long-term sobriety involved an honest assessment of his relationship with alcohol, acknowledging that he used it as a social crutch. Today, a year and a half into his sobriety, he doesn’t even consider alcohol, thanks to the healthy replacements he’s discovered.
Holland’s friends and family have been supportive of his decision, with his mother also embracing sobriety. He takes pride in being a reliable friend and enjoys ensuring everyone gets home safely as the designated driver. Expressing his joy over his sober lifestyle, Holland concludes, “I love it.”
Holland’s story provides a heartfelt account of overcoming addiction and embracing a healthier lifestyle, setting a positive example for fans and audiences worldwide.
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