Sean Stewart, the 44-year-old son of legendary rock musician Rod Stewart, has recently entered treatment at the renowned Cliffside Malibu rehab facility, with the aim of addressing rooted issues related to ADHD and substance abuse.
On Tuesday, Stewart revealed to various media outlets, including the Daily Mail, the challenges he has navigated throughout his life, stemming from both neurodevelopmental disorders and childhood trauma. He admitted, "I’ve dealt with ADHD since I was young," adding, "I was called 'Stupid Stewart,' which left a lasting impact." His history with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, and the bullying he experienced as a child led to feelings of inadequacy, particularly growing up under the shadow of his father's stellar fame.
Stewart's admission to rehab is not framed as a direct consequence of relapse, as some initial reports suggested. Instead, it serves as part of his commitment to confronting the emotional pain he has carried for decades. “I am here to deal with the pain I had in my childhood,” he emphasized, articulately depicting his therapy as an opportunity to heal and grow. He observed, "Just because I've had ADHD and dyslexia doesn’t mean I can’t lead a successful life."
Sean Stewart is no stranger to treatment facilities; he has had prior experiences with rehab, dating back to when he was just 19. He recounted how substances first captured his attention during high school parties, detailing, "I would go to parties at the age and drink and smoke cannabis and cigarettes. It was very easy for me to get drugs." Regrettably, his early substance use escalated quickly, transitioning from ecstasy to prescription pills like Vicodin, and eventually toward heroin—a addiction he continues to navigate.
Despite the challenges, Stewart's resolve shines through as he articulates aspirations for his future. "I am grateful to be in this position where I can step back and focus on my well-being for my friends and family," he said. This admission remarkably highlights the importance he places on self-improvement and forming healthier relationships.
His family’s involvement, particularly his father Rod Stewart, has always been part of the narrative with subtle interventions over the years. Reports depict Rod as proud of his son for willingly seeking help, marking this as another pivotal moment for Sean as he embarks on what is expected to be a 90-day stay at the Cliffside Malibu facility—known not only for its luxurious amenities but also for fostering recovery through various therapeutic modalities.
Beyond the luxury, Cliffside Malibu offers residents exclusive therapies ranging from yoga to equine therapy, providing holistic avenues for healing. This is particularly significant for someone like Sean, who has addressed the need for therapy as not merely rehabilitative but transformative.
Reflecting on his tumultuous past, Stewart’s experiences raise important conversations about the stigma surrounding neurodiversity and mental health. He hopes to inspire others grappling with similar issues. "I cannot let ADHD and dyslexia define me; it's time to thrive and inspire others to do the same," he claimed. His admission is set against the backdrop of societal struggles with mental illness and substance use, highlighting both vulnerability and strength.
Sean Stewart is determined—and not just for himself. He looks toward the future with dreams of starting his own family: “I hope to one day become the father I want to be.” This personal goal reflects not just hope for his own recovery but also vision for healthy life and legacy.
While the road to recovery is fraught with challenges, Sean Stewart's willingness to confront his past, and advocate for his own mental health, presents a narrative of resilience. His story serves as both caution and inspiration, reminding us all of the strength found within vulnerability.