Ep 43. The dark side behind the bright lights of fame, with Dena AmyEp 43. The dark side behind the bright lights of fame, with Dena Amy
Behind The Smile with Ash Butterss
Dena Amy reveals her journey from global fame to overcoming addiction and finding peace in recovery.
56:03•21 May 2023
From Spotlight to Serenity: Dena Amy's Recovery Journey
Episode Overview
- Dena Amy shares her journey from the spotlight to a life of recovery
- Struggles with addiction, mental health, and trauma are discussed openly
- Dena's experiences with self-medication and addiction to Xanax are revealed
- The challenges of recovery and the impact on her career are explored
- Dena's story offers hope, inspiration, and a reminder of finding peace in recovery
“I was living on a tour bus. I mean, there was cocaine and alcohol around me 24/7, but those drugs and alcohol didn't really do it for me. For me, I wanted peace, and I didn't want to be stimulated, and I didn't really want to be drunk. I just wanted to sleep and be at peace and not have anxiety. So, for me, Xanax was like finding nirvana.”
Ever wondered what it's like to juggle fame while battling addiction? In this episode of 'Behind The Smile', Ash Butterss sits down with the multi-talented Dena Amy, who has danced, acted, and DJed her way into the hearts of many. Known for her role in Netflix's 'Dance Academy' and electrifying performances at Coachella, Dena's life seemed perfect on the outside. But behind the bright lights, she was struggling with a darker reality.
Dena candidly shares her experience of self-medicating with prescription pills to handle the pressures of global fame, leading to a tough battle with Xanax addiction. She opens up about the pain and challenges of her six-year journey to recovery, which has brought her to a place of newfound peace and impending motherhood. Topics range from the hidden perils of showbiz to the impact of childhood trauma, and from the horrors of withdrawal to the healing power of holistic therapies.
Dena's story is a powerful reminder that even those who seem to have it all can face significant struggles. Her resilience and honesty offer hope and inspiration for anyone dealing with similar issues.

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