Ruby Roberts
AJ McLean singer for the Backstreet Boys has revealed that he has relapsed according to Radar Online. McLean spoke openly about his struggle with addiction saying ‘It’s A Daily Struggle.’ He also claims that he feels part of his problem with drug addiction stems from being a ‘big people pleaser.’
AJ McLean, a member of the popular 90s boy band is baring it all in a new interview where he will openly and honestly discuss the detailed struggles with his addiction and his and recent relapse. “Look, I have no shame in saying, I’ve relapsed over the past year. It’s no secret that this is a disease and that it’s a daily struggle,” McLean, 40, told People.
McLean notes that his drub issues relate to his need to please and succeed in all aspects of his life. He states that trying to be a good husband and father to his wife, Rochelle, and daughters, Ava Jaymes, 6, and Lyric, 20 months had a way of wearing him down a bit.
“You know, it’s interesting about sobriety with family and with kids — you still have to put yourself first, and that’s been a really big struggle for me,”
he said.“Are my kids and my wife a huge support, and a huge inspiration? Yes, a hundred percent,” continued McLean, “but, at the same time the biggest problem I deal with, with them, is putting myself first, and not my family
first.”
AJ also states that his history of performing onstage with the Backstreet Boys also played a huge role in his addiction.
“I think a lot of that comes from being a performer and wanting to see the crowd happy, and seeing everybody around you, and loving the attention
— I want to make sure everyone’s cool,” he explained.
McLean added that going at that pace night after night and trying to be everything for everyone that he forgot one important thing…’taking care of himself.’The entertainer has a long history with substance abuse and has been to rehab three times for alcohol abuse and depression.
“One of the best things I was told, from my sponsor, from my friends, is the only way around is through,” McLean said. He also admits that during it all
you will also continue to suffer from bad days, but surrounding yourself with a supportive group of family, friends and a complete lifestyle change is the key to success.
McLean stated, that through it all “I have no regrets. Maybe I did it right, maybe I did it wrong, but no one’s perfect.”
The Backstreet Boys are set to begin their world tour in 2019. Despite his recent struggles, he said he’s determined to keep going forward. AJ McLean adds that through it all “I have no regrets. Maybe I did it right, maybe I did it wrong, but no one’s perfect.”
[Photo Credit: AJ McLean/Twitter]
