Zach Bryan is opening up about reshaping his relationship with alcohol after recent mental health struggles.
The country singer, 29, shared an emotional letter with fans via Instagram on Tuesday, November 18, noting that he recently went on a motorcycle trip across the country and realized, “I really need some f***ing help.”
“I was stuck in a perpetual discontent that led me to always reaching for alcohol, not for the taste, but because there was a consistent black hole in me always needing its void filled,” Bryan wrote, adding that being thrust into the spotlight had “some subconscious efforts on me as a person.”
“I had been lied about and doxxed on the internet, I was helping a close friend through a severe mental break, one of my other best friends was put into a coma by a motorcycle accident, and I was touring the country playing five, sometimes six nights a week,” he continued. “I was having earth-shattering panic attacks. The anxiety I felt was paralyzing and I thought since I was successful, had the money I always longed for, and had great friends, that I could tough anything out.”
The “Something in the Orange” singer said he recently reached out to a therapist to help him with his “toxic relationship with booze and how I cope with major life changes.”
“I haven’t touched alcohol for nearly two months now — something I had to do for my own personal clarity. I needed to see the world objectively,” he wrote. “My family supported every step I took. Conversations about the future, kids one day, my health and [girlfriend] Sammy‘s happiness made me prioritize not only myself, but my entire family.”
“I feel great, I feel content, I feel whole. There is nothing I need to get me by anymore,” Bryan continued. “If you or any of your friends are too tough, too scared or too stubborn to reach out, know that the most stubborn dumbass on the planet did and didn’t regret it.”
“I don’t believe in absolutes. One day maybe, I’ll learn to [control] my habits, but for now, I just want to say it is okay to be weak at times and need help. God speed everyone! I pray this helps somebody,” he concluded.
Bryan further captioned the post, “In no way is this a greater-than-thou sentiment and I’m aware I am one of the luckiest men alive. I pray people don’t take this as me taking my blessings for granted.”
“I wanted to share this because I feel like a lot of people go through mental struggles at times and feel alone in them, which leads plenty to suffer in silence. Here’s me on mental health. I hope it helps someone struggling to find words when they’re down on their luck,” he added.
In the comments, Bryan’s fans were quick to show their appreciation for the singer and wish him well on his sobriety journey.
“In tears (of joy!) So incredibly proud of you @zachlanebryan 🙌 Thank you for sharing your journey and inspiring many others who may be struggling,” wrote one fan.
Another shared, “Strong enough to seek change and we love to see it 🤍.”
