Recovery Takes a Lifetime

He survived the pressure of writing award-winning TV shows and films, but cocaine almost brought down Aaron Sorkin several years ago. He’s the voice behind the fast-paced banter of The West Wing and memorable one liners like A Few Good Men’s “You can’t handle the truth!”  

He’s a Syracuse grad and lawyer’s son, but his intelligence and talent couldn’t keep him from becoming a crack addict. In a recent interview with W magazine to talk about his new project, the upcoming Facebook film The Social Network, he also opened up about his past addiction. 

Sorkin’s Drug Filled Past

He recalled drug-fueled nights when he lived at the Four Seasons and worked non-stop turning out scripts. Eventually, his drug use caught up with him, hitting what he explains is called a “high bottom.” “My life didn’t fall apart before I got into rehab,” Sorkin explained to W. “I didn’t lose my job or run over a kid or injure anyone when I was high. But the hardest thing I do every day is not take cocaine.” 

Sorkin went into treatment in 1995 and admits he was very skeptical of the process. “I had no intention of rehab working,” he recalled. “But I’ve never seen anything work as well.”  

Sorkin’s Past Relapse

Sorkin did falter, though. In 2001, he was arrested at the airport after security found a pipe, cocaine and hallucinogenic mushrooms in his bag. That was a humbling experience that reminded him that recovery is a life-long process. “You don’t get cured of addiction—you’re just in remission,” he told W.  

Drug Treatment

If you or someone you love is battling an addiction, call La Paloma at our toll-free number. Someone is there to take your call 24 hours a day and answer any questions you have about treatment, financing or insurance.