Makua Rothman: Drug Use & Surfing Big Waves
Makua Rothman Opens Up About Addiction and His Journey Back to Himself
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Surfing legend Makua rothman, known for his fearless big-wave prowess, has bravely shared his struggles with addiction, revealing a period between 2015 and 2018 where he “went off the rails.” In a candid conversation, Rothman detailed his battle with opiates and other substances, highlighting how they masked underlying mental health issues and the profound impact they had on his life and career.
A Dark Period: Pills, Shame, and the Dopamine hit
Rothman’s journey into addiction was not born from physical pain or injury, but from a desire to escape internal struggles. He admitted to using oxycodone, finding that the “dopamine hit really took away the things I didn’t like about myself.” He described the pills as a perceived solution to deeper issues of shame and guilt, wich he felt he wasn’t “man enough to take responsibility for.” This internal turmoil was further compounded by alcohol and cocaine use, creating a risky cocktail of self-destructive behavior.
“I really did a lot of detrimental things to my health,” Rothman confessed. “I’d do pills, and be off them on a blocker when I’d compete. It’s wild when I think about what I could have done if I had the mindset that I did previously, or what I have now. I was still good enough to win a world championship, even in that mind space.”
Surfing Through the Storm: Jaws and the Brink of Disaster
The extent of Rothman’s addiction reached terrifying new heights, with him admitting to using drugs even while preparing to surf some of the world’s most dangerous waves. He recounted instances of using drugs in the channel at Jaws, the infamous big-wave surf break in Maui.
“I’m lucky I’m not dead,” he stated, reflecting on the immense risks he took. “I’ve competed and surfed in the biggest waves. I would go out to Jaws with pills in a pill container, crush ’em up, snort ’em, and go back surfing Jaws. I’m just blessed I didn’t drown.”
This period of intense substance abuse put his life and career in jeopardy, a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of addiction.
The Turning Point: Choosing to Live
The turning point for Rothman came when he reached a personal breaking point. A profound desire to reclaim his life and identity spurred a commitment to recovery.
“I eventually had a moment where I was done,” he shared. “I really wanted to live. I was ready to become Makua again.” This realization marked the beginning of his arduous but ultimately rewarding journey back to sobriety and self-acceptance.
Embracing the Past, Building the Future
While Rothman acknowledges the regrets that come with his past struggles, he also views them as integral to his personal growth. He expressed pride in his ability to overcome addiction and emerge stronger on the other side.
“I’m proud of it, because a lot of people don’t make it to this side,” he saeid, emphasizing the resilience and strength gained through his experience. His story serves as a powerful testament to the possibility of recovery and the enduring human spirit.
Rothman’s openness about his battle with addiction offers a vital message of hope and encouragement to others facing similar challenges. His journey underscores the importance of addressing underlying mental health issues and seeking help when needed.
For those seeking support, resources are available. You can listen to the full podcast episode featuring Makua Rothman’s story here.
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