John Mulaney’s Experience Through Relapse, Rehab, and Recovery
Table of Contents
John Mulaney is best known for his sense of humor and appearances on Saturday Night Live, Jimmy Kimmel, and other large names. However, Mulaney’s career is not his only achievement; Mulaney has also battled addiction and found happiness in recovery.
For John Mulaney, rehab was a highly beneficial experience, and his trajectory through recovery is a story that all of us can learn from. Keep reading to find out more about his journey to sobriety, and how to get effective help for yourself or a loved one if you are struggling!
Comedian John Mulaney Returns To Rehab
American Comedian John Mulaney has been open about his experience with substance abuse for a very long time. Mulaney began drinking at the age of thirteen. Despite never having used marijuana, he used alcohol, cocaine, and prescription drugs.
Way back in 2012, during his comedy special called New In Town, Mulaney opened up about his experience with alcohol and his choice to stay sober. “I quit drinking because I used to drink too much, and then, I’d black out and ruin parties,” he revealed. At the time, Mulaney had been sober since the year 2005. He stayed sober until 2020. That year, Mulaney started to use drugs and alcohol again after fifteen years of sobriety.
However, after the relapse, he made a brave, honorable move; Mulaney checked back into rehab voluntarily in December 2020 for his addiction to alcohol and cocaine. He stayed in rehab for two months and proceeded to enter a sober living program.
● Relapses Happen and Can be Overcome
Many people with substance use disorders relapse. In fact, sources estimate that the relapse rate for substance use disorders is around 40-60%. This does not mean that people like John Mulaney with substance use disorders will not recover.
Instead, it is often the case that recovery is a process. It’s not a linear process, and it’s one that requires support at that. The choice to seek out and re-enter treatment when you need to is honorable, not shameful.
John Mulaney: An Intervention Leads to Sobriety
Prior to opening the door, Mulaney recalled that he thought he was going out to dinner with a friend from college that night. However, when he entered the room to see a large group of his friends and a professional interventionist, Mulaney knew exactly what was happening; an intervention. Those in Mulaney’s life said that, while his relapse got ugly, Mulaney has always been committed to recovery.
Mulaney admitted that, upon seeing everyone there, he opened his mouth and said, “Before you read your letter, I have a drug problem – and I need help.” Although he insisted he was sober at the intervention, Mulaney revealed later that he was under the influence the entire time.
Mulaney said that, while he was angry at first, he looked around the room during the intervention and thought to himself what an amazing group he had. Mulaney notes that it was jarring to see that even Fred Armisen was not “doing a bit.” All of the people gathered there were serious, despite Seth, Fred, and other friends being well-known comedians.
During his first interview post-rehab on Late Night With Seth Meyers, where he discussed his complicated year, Mulaney said to Seth Meyers, “I’m so grateful to you – and everyone there – for saving my life.”
● Having a Sober Support System is Crucial
The fact of the matter is that we all have mental health to take care of, and we all need a support system. This is true with or without a drug problem. In recovery, it’s important to have supportive people in your life; often, sober friends are key. This is part of where support groups play a role in many people’s recovery.
Everyone’s support system will look a little bit different, and that’s okay. If you don’t have a support system right now, it’s possible to build one, and for many people, substance use disorder treatment is the first step.
Mulaney On Life After Rehab
John Mulaney was in rehab for drugs and alcohol for around two months in 2020. After rehab, he went on to marry actress Olivia Munn. The couple had a baby together, and Mulaney continues to say time and time again that he is grateful for those who helped save his life through the intervention.
Upon reflecting on his substance use, Mulaney said, “I don’t like that guy anymore.” While this was before his relapse in 2020, it is vital to note that many people are far away from their true selves when they are in the thick of addiction – and no matter how true that is, there’s a better life on the other side.
Addiction experts often say to wait to start a relationship until you have been in recovery for around one year. This is to avoid codependency and other potential problems. Sobriety always comes first. If you do happen to find love, remain mindful and take it slow as you move through the process.
● It’s Okay to Change in Recovery
Life is unpredictable. Substance use disorders are real mental health conditions, and struggling with mental health is nothing to be ashamed of. Few of us expect everything that’ll happen in our lives or our futures, but it is okay if the trajectories of our lives change. It’s also okay if we change as people. No matter where you’re at right now, remember that a lot can change in a year. You never know quite how good things can get, especially when you take the steps to heal.
Takeaways From John Mulaney’s Story
The average person may not be a comedian, nor a celebrity, but many people with substance use disorders and related mental health concerns find Mulaney’s story a relatable one. Recovery isn’t always linear, it’s okay to get help, and it is absolutely possible to have a healthier, happier life in sobriety.
At the end of the day, we can’t give up on ourselves due to the mistakes that we make. The fact of the matter is that all of us make mistakes and that forgiving ourselves can be healing.
Find Addiction Treatment that Works Now!
If you have made the decision to get treatment, take pride in your choice. Sobriety is possible, and Find Addiction Rehabs is here to help. At Find Addiction Rehabs, we make it easier for individuals and their loved ones to find treatment options for substance use disorders of all kinds.
Whether you want to learn about treatment options in your area or gain access to recovery tools and resources, our hotline is available 24/7. Find Addiction Rehabs can also help you verify your insurance coverage for care.
We are here to help you break through the barriers and find care. If you’re ready to move toward sobriety, call Find Addiction Rehabs now for a confidential discussion of your options!
Eric R. hails from Maine and does extensive work in the field of behavioral health as both a professional writer and passionate advocate for those suffering. From his own personal encounters with mental illness, he speaks to those seeking healthy relief from depression and anxiety and embraces wellness both personally and professionally. After losing friends and family to the darkness of suicide, Eric aims to educate and inform about the nature of treatment and render it accessible for all those seeking a way out of darkness and despair.
Medically Reviewed By
As a registered nurse for over 15 years, my devotion to patient well-being extends beyond medical practice. I am a passionate advocate in the behavioral healthcare space, placing a strong emphasis on de-stigmatizing substance use and mental health disorders. I firmly believe that reliable, accurate resources are crucial, and I consistently strive to offer understanding and compassion for those seeking help and their loved ones.
My dedication to continuous learning and a spirit of collaboration have been instrumental in my professional journey. I am committed to staying current with the latest advancements in medical science and am always eager to work alongside fellow behavioral healthcare professionals at Find Addiction Rehabs.
