The Legacy of Cory Monteith

The hit TV show “Glee” regularly depicts real-world issues within the confines of William McKinley High School. The episodes only pale in comparison to the recent death of star Cory Monteith.

The actor passed away this past July at age 31 due to a toxic combination of alcohol and heroin, according to the Canadian coroner’s report.

On “Glee”, Cory played a singer/clean-cut quarterback on his way to college. However, the actor was quick to let fans know just how different his own story really was.

Cory freely discussed details of his past with the press: drinking and drug use at age 13, high school drop out and stealing to account for the next high. Following an intervention from family and friends, Cory decided to seek help for his drug addiction at age 19.

Over time, Cory was able to clean himself up, begin acting, and in 2009, shot to stardom with the cast of “Glee”. By all accounts, Cory was a beautiful individual inside and out.

However, like many recovering addicts, Cory struggled with sobriety. Reports confirm that the actor voluntarily re-entered a rehabilitation facility in March of this year, successfully completing a 30-day program. Unfortunately, it just wasn’t enough.

Cory’s death is but another reminder of the perils associated with drug and alcohol abuse. Athlete or artist, poor or rich, old or young, struggling or successful – nobody is safe.

When one star overdoses, fans mourn by the millions. The sad fact is that drug and alcohol abuse takes hundreds of thousands of wonderful people each year, with little to no attention from the general public.

It’s important to view Cory’s struggle as an example for families to follow. His addiction and demise do not make him a hypocrite. They make him a human being.

Surely, Cory Monteith would prefer that his fans and friends do more than mourn another celebrity death. When “Glee” returns to living rooms this coming season, the producers will likely pay tribute. They may even present a story to help fans avoid the same pitfalls.

Here’s hoping that Cory’s story motivates each of us to take a stand for the generations to come. 

Handling Free Time During Recovery

Boredom is perhaps the biggest threat to sobriety for recovering drug addicts. The transition back to real life following rehabilitation can be a difficult one. Without a solid game plan in place, the risk of relapse is multiplied exponentially. In this entry, we will discuss some tips and idea on how best to utilize your free time as a recovering drug addict. 

Start a new hobby

1 – Seek out employment. This is not meant to be a lecture on laziness or wasting time. Rather, an opportunity to apply yourself in a positive manner. Steady employment can keep you busier than most other activities, offering rewards, financial security and the potential for new, positive relationships.

2 – Dive into a hobby! If you’re one of the many who find difficulty seeking out employment during the initial recovery stages, a hobby can be a wonderful way to spend your free time. Start a comic book collection, learn an instrument, take up knitting! Whatever activity you choose, make sure you have fun with it!

3 – Exercise your mind! Throw your head into a good book, take a class at the local community college, or keep a daily journal. These types of activities can provide hours of positive amusement while offering the potential to better yourself long-term.

4 – Exercise your body! Mental stimulation is one thing, but tackling pain and stress through physical exercise can just as (if not more) rewarding. Grab a gym membership or start jogging around the neighborhood. Set some goals and track your progress!

Need Help?

If you or someone you love is struggling with an alcohol or drug addiction, Above it All treatment center is the place to call! Pick up the phone today, and let our team of addiction specialists help you back on track towards the healthy, happy and productive lifestyle you’ve been missing.