Jodie Sweetin charmed millions as the mischievous Stephanie Tanner. But beneath the laughter lay a painful journey—by her mid‑20s, substance abuse nearly derailed her life. This article explores the substance abuse crisis that followed her Disney-era success.
1. Drug Use Begins
After Full House ended, Sweetin confessed she began drinking at 14 and quickly progressed to harder substances like ecstasy, methamphetamines, cocaine, and crack in her late teens and early twenties.
2. Rock Bottom & Rehab
By 2006, Sweetin admitted spending tens of thousands on drugs during a nine-month spiral. She publicly described an intervention, rehab stays, and being investigated by child services after a DUI with her young daughter.
3. Redemption Work
Sweetin achieved sobriety in December 2008 and chronicled the journey in her memoir unSweetined. She now works as a drug and alcohol counselor and speaks frequently about recovery, offering hope and a sense of realism to those who know her as a sitcom star.
4. Public Perception
Initially, fans were shocked. But over time, her courage earned widespread respect. Some criticized her early honesty as premature, but now her vulnerability is seen as inspiring.
FAQs
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What drugs did she use? – Alcohol, ecstasy, meth, cocaine, and crack.
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Is she still sober? – Yes; she’s been clean since 2008, with one relapse after a divorce.
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What does she do now? – Works in rehab settings, counseling others and advocating for recovery.
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Did her family help? – She credits strong support from co-stars and family throughout her recovery.
Conclusion
Jodie Sweetin’s story highlights the dark side of child stardom, but also the possibility of transformation. From addiction to advocacy, she now uses her platform to heal not just herself, but others, showing the real beyond the laugh track.
