Despite outward success, many grapple with substance use disorders, often in silence. Research indicates that high achievers are more susceptible to addiction compared to the general population. Specific recent statistics on substance use among executives are limited; however, one study cited approximately 1 in 4 female surgeons[1] and 1 in 4 male lawyers[2] have alcohol use disorder, and executives have a 40% higher rate of drug use than other occupations.[3]
The Breaking Point: Addiction in High Performers
High achievers often face unique challenges that increase their vulnerability to substance use disorders. The relentless pursuit of success can lead to immense stress, anxiety, and isolation. In an effort to cope, some may turn to substances as a means of self-medication. Additionally, the stigma associated with addiction can prevent individuals in high-performing roles from seeking help, further exacerbating the problem.
My own journey into addiction began subtly. Growing up as a Nigerian in Leeds, I faced relentless bullying due to my name, skin colour, and identity, which led me to develop profound anxiety. Initially, I sought solace in books and movies, but at age 12, I turned to alcohol. That small glass of Cinzano Bianco during Christmas felt transformative—suddenly, the world seemed more manageable, and I felt fearless and free.
As I advanced in my career as a dental surgeon, I pursued validation through professional achievements. However, beneath this façade of success, I was struggling. Alcohol became both a crutch and a tormentor. Despite my medical knowledge, I couldn’t control my drinking, and the pressure to excel, coupled with underlying emotional wounds, created a perfect storm for addiction.
Research by psychologist Michael Freeman highlights why high performers are at such risk.[4] He cited that 12% of entrepreneurs report struggling with addiction (3x the general population), and they were:
- 2x more likely to experience depression
- 6x more likely to have ADHD
- 10x more likely to live with bipolar disorder
The drive to succeed can leave us disconnected, fuelling the anxiety, pressure, and isolation that lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms. For me, addiction was a way to numb the pain and silence the constant feeling of not being enough.
By 2008, my life had hit rock bottom. Standing on the steps of a rehab facility in central London, I faced divorce, the threat of losing my career, and the unbearable shame of letting down my two little boys. I thought my life was over. What I didn’t know was that it was just the beginning of my recovery.
The Shift Toward Healing: Addressing the Energetic Root
After seven stints in rehab, desperation led me to something I never thought I’d explore: energy healing. It was an approach I’d previously dismissed as woo-woo nonsense. As a medical professional, I had always relied on science, so when a friend suggested seeing a shaman, I scoffed. However, the truth was I had nothing left to lose.
Energy healing encompasses various practices aimed at restoring balance to the body’s energy fields by addressing the emotional and spiritual factors contributing to addiction.
Through practices like Reiki, ancestral healing, and spiritual alignment, I experienced a shift that changed everything. I have since come to believe that addiction is an energetic disruption—a misalignment between mind, body, and spirit. When I started to reconnect with myself, I didn’t just fix the symptoms. I began healing the deep wounds that had fuelled my addiction for years.
Holistic approaches recognise that addiction is multifaceted and that healing must occur on multiple levels to be effective. In addition to practices like Reiki and mindfulness, I discovered the benefits of crystal healing and bioelectromagnetic technology.
The Role of Crystal Healing in Recovery
Crystal healing is an ancient practice that uses the energy of gemstones to restore balance and promote well-being. Each crystal resonates with specific vibrations that can help clear negative energy, reduce stress, and improve emotional clarity.
Some examples include:
- Amethyst: Known as the sobriety stone, amethyst helps to promote calmness, clarity, and emotional balance. It is particularly effective in reducing cravings.
- Clear Quartz: A powerful crystal for energy cleansing, clear quartz helps amplify intentions, strengthen focus, and clear emotional blockages.
- Rose Quartz: Often called the stone of love, rose quartz supports self-love, emotional healing, and forgiveness.
- Black Tourmaline: This crystal provides protection and grounding, helping individuals release negative thought patterns and overcome emotional triggers.
Crystal healing, when used alongside other therapies, offers a complementary approach that nurtures both emotional and energetic healing and can provide additional techniques to help individuals stay grounded, focused, and resilient during their recovery journey.
Supporting Recovery with Bioelectromagnetic Technology
Bioelectromagnetic technology involves the application of electromagnetic fields to influence biological systems. This form of treatment offers innovative avenues for supporting recovery from addiction and mental health conditions by directly influencing neural activity and promoting physiological balance. Some examples include:
- Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS): TMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate specific areas of the brain. It’s been utilised to treat conditions like depression and has potential applications in addressing addiction by modulating neural circuits associated with cravings and mood regulation.
- NeuroIntegration Therapy (NIT): NIT combines quantitative electroencephalography (qEEG) brain mapping with therapies such as neurofeedback, vibroacoustic therapy, pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMFT), and photic stimulation. This integrated approach aims to retrain dysregulated brain areas, potentially benefiting individuals with addiction and mental health disorders.
- Vibroacoustic Therapy (VAT): VAT employs sound vibrations transmitted through the body to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Emerging technologies, like vibroacoustic therapy sound beds, deliver low-frequency vibrations synchronized to music, offering a deeply relaxing experience that may reduce cravings and support the healing process in addiction recovery.
Coming Home to Myself
The turning point came when I found an old sepia photograph of my great-grandfather. He had been captured into slavery, endured unimaginable horrors, and somehow made his way back home to Nigeria. His courage and resilience became my anchor. If he could find his way home, so could I.
I began to view my own struggles not as flaws but as integral parts of my journey, like the broken pottery in the Japanese art of Kintsugi, which is mended with gold to highlight its beauty and history.
Embracing this perspective allowed me to see my scars as symbols of strength and growth. Each challenge and setback became an opportunity for healing and self-discovery. This shift in mindset was instrumental in rebuilding my self-esteem and fostering a deeper connection with myself.
Recovery Is Possible
Acknowledging the need for help can be daunting for high achievers, as they can feel it may be perceived as a sign of weakness. However, true strength lies in recognising one’s vulnerabilities and taking proactive steps toward healing. Recovery extends beyond mere abstinence from substances; it involves rebuilding trust, healing relationships, and reconnecting with one’s authentic self.
Addiction does not define you. You are not broken; you are enough. Today, I stand strong, not despite my past struggles but because of them. My name, Olubumi, means “God’s gift”—a name I now embrace with pride.
If you are struggling with addiction or maintaining long-term sobriety, know this: lasting sobriety is possible. You can find your light again, no matter how far you feel you’ve fallen. Recovery is not a destination—it’s a journey, and it begins with reconnecting with the most important person along the way – you.
Sources:
[1] https://www.physicianhealthprogram.com/addiction-news/alcoholism-drug-abuse-doctors
[3] https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/report_1959/ShortReport-1959.html
[4] https://michaelafreemanmd.com/Research_files/Are%20Entrepreneurs%20Touched%20with%20Fire%20%28pre-pub%20n%29%204-17-15.pdf
