38 min
The Bachelorette’s Zac Clark discusses faking illnesses for narcotics and finding true love Heart of the Matter
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- Mental Health
Before Zac Clark was introduced to television viewers on The Bachelorette, he was considered the "life of the party" and willing to go to great lengths to achieve his “next high.” In his twenties, his addiction escalated to the point where his marriage crumbled and his friendships dissipated. His relationship with his parents was holding on by a thread. But they never gave up on him, and Zac found recovery. Ultimately, he won back his health and went on to win the heart of not only Tayshia Adams but also viewers across the country, all through his candor, compassion and commitment to a substance-free life. In the ninth episode of Heart of the Matter, listen in as Elizabeth Vargas and Zac revisit his journey, from faking illnesses to gain access to prescription medications to finding happiness in real life, making a career out of helping others with addiction, and even falling in love on reality TV.
Related reading
After you listen, explore these resources to learn more about the topics and themes discussed in this episode:
How to Encourage Your Child to Get Help for Their Substance Use or AddictionPreparing for Life and Recovery Following TreatmentPersonalized Support for Parents and Caregivers
Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on Heart of the Matter are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion.
To learn more:
Partnership to End Addiction website
Donate today to help us provide free resources to families
Before Zac Clark was introduced to television viewers on The Bachelorette, he was considered the "life of the party" and willing to go to great lengths to achieve his “next high.” In his twenties, his addiction escalated to the point where his marriage crumbled and his friendships dissipated. His relationship with his parents was holding on by a thread. But they never gave up on him, and Zac found recovery. Ultimately, he won back his health and went on to win the heart of not only Tayshia Adams but also viewers across the country, all through his candor, compassion and commitment to a substance-free life. In the ninth episode of Heart of the Matter, listen in as Elizabeth Vargas and Zac revisit his journey, from faking illnesses to gain access to prescription medications to finding happiness in real life, making a career out of helping others with addiction, and even falling in love on reality TV.
Related reading
After you listen, explore these resources to learn more about the topics and themes discussed in this episode:
How to Encourage Your Child to Get Help for Their Substance Use or AddictionPreparing for Life and Recovery Following TreatmentPersonalized Support for Parents and Caregivers
Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on Heart of the Matter are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion.
To learn more:
Partnership to End Addiction website
Donate today to help us provide free resources to families
38 min