Jim Morrison is best known as the lead singer of The Doors. He is also infamous as one of many young celebrities who died young as a result of substance abuse. His history of substance abuse seems well established, as it is widely reported that Morrison suffered from alcoholism and substance abuse and died at the age of 27, of heart failure, likely from an accidental heroin overdose.
Researchers in a 2014 study looked through Jim Morrison's self-assessments, in his works and letters, as well as the descriptions by others. Their analysis of this data, under the perspective of creativity, can help us to uncover the impact of drug and alcohol use. The authors of the study reported:
- He self-medicated: Jim Morrison tried to cope with traumatic events, depressive moods and uncontrolled impulses through creative activities.
I recently wrote an article regarding the impact of drugs and alcohol on creativity, how to tell if someone is ready to quit, and how to empower yourself to help a loved one with a substance abuse problem, click here to read more.
Dr. Goldenberg is an Addiction Psychiatry Fellow in Los Angeles and has written numerous articles about mental health and addiction topics. You can follow Dr. Goldenberg at docgoldenberg.com and on Twitter: @docgoldenberg
Need help with substance abuse or mental health issues? In the U.S., call 800-662-HELP (4357) for the SAMHSA National Helpline.