The Overlap interview between Dele Alli and Gary Neville was an emotional and sometimes difficult watch. The brave, intelligent and honest account of childhood trauma and subsequent addiction was hugely powerful. Yet, knowing that whilst this was an empowering step for Dele Alli to take, the timing of owning his story and narrative was imposed on him by a potential expose in the media, was challenging.
What followed was a searingly honest account of how childhood trauma and intergenerational patterns of addiction take place. It was intelligent and heartfelt, and it was difficult to remember at times that this was a young man, still in his 20’s finding his way in life. It left questions about how a public unravelling, or edited dressing down for a documentary, that Dele and many others before him have experienced, has real life consequences.
Celebrities, musicians, footballers and other sportspeople are, understandably, considered other worldly. Their lives seem so unreal, that we can’t see them as we see ourselves. Their life is a movie, untouchable by reality – and so gossip and harmful headlines are fair game.
The interview shows us they are not. And any trauma or challenges they might be experiencing are real, and just as painful and impactful as they are for anyone else.
It’s no surprise then, that some footballers, just like so many others have experienced adverse childhood experiences. Yet the consequences of this, are played out for everyone to see, with little exploration of why it is happening, or empathy shown.
Addictions, however they manifest, drugs (prescription or illegal), alcohol, gambling, sex, love are growing across the UK. The stigma of high profile people, trickles down to those struggling at home, unable to find a way to ask for help. We need to remove sensationalist headlines that contribute to stigma; and report with the kindness and empathy that any other serious health condition would receive.
Why? Because addiction takes the lives of too many. And follows an intergenerational path of harm, when treatment and recovery from it, is possible.
Deli Alli’s interview will, no doubt, help many people to reach out and ask for help. Now he starts his recovery journey, with hope, fellowship and friendship. Let’s support him to do that.
Sally Benton, Executive Director Communication & Fundraising, Forward Trust
To view this powerful interview click here.
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