Ben Affleck Speaks Out After 40 Days in Rehab: ‘I Am Fighting for Myself and My Family’
Ben Affleck has been open about the ups and downs of his battle with alcohol addiction, and on Thursday, October 4, he spoke out again after completing a 40-day stint in rehab. In a heartfelt statement on Instagram, the actor updated fans on his progress and thanked his loved ones for their ongoing support.
Affleck entered a rehab facility on Wednesday, August 22, with the help of ex-wife Jennifer Garner. This week, he completed a 40-day stay at the treatment center, although he remains in outpatient care, according to his statement.
“The support I have received from family, colleagues, and fans means more to me than I can say. It’s given me the strength and support to speak about my illness with others,” he wrote.
“Battling any addiction is a lifelong and difficult struggle,” he continued. “Because of that, one is never really in or out of treatment. It is a full-time commitment. I am fighting for myself and my family.”
The Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice actor went on to share that “so many people have reached out on social media and spoken about their own journeys with addiction.” After thanking those people, he wrote, “Your strength is inspiring and is supporting me in ways I didn’t think was possible. It helps to know I am not alone.”
Affleck, who has three kids with Garner, concluded his statement with a hopeful note about the future, “As I’ve had to remind myself, if you have a problem, getting help is a sign of courage, not weakness or failure. With acceptance and humility, I continue to avail myself with the help of so many people and I am grateful to all those who are there for me. I hope down the road I can offer an example to others who are struggling.”
(photo via Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images)
