3 Years Ago I Tried To End It All: Joey Swoll’s Near-Fatal Overdose and the Call From His Mom That Saved Him

As a fitness influencer who has taken gym culture by storm, Joey Swoll is known for his constant positivity and inclusivity of all seeking to better their health and wellness. Using his platform to shut down bullying and advocate for mental health, Swoll took to his Instagram and shared an emotional statement of when he hit rock bottom and how grateful he was for his life today. 

Joey Swoll’s top priority is ending toxic gym culture and creating an inviting environment at every fitness center. He has turned the Gym Positivity Nation into a brand that allows others to feel more at ease when working out. Swoll has not only released merchandise but has begun working with owners to implement regulations on how people conduct themselves while training.

Additionally, the fitness influencer sheds light on the importance of mental health, whether it be the impacts of bullying or simply struggling with anxiety and self-esteem. Joey Swoll has been open about his battles with depression in hopes of encouraging others to ask for help when it is needed. 

Joey Swoll on His Struggles With Depression “That Pain Pushed Me Over the Edge” 

Previously, Joey Swoll revealed his battle with drug addiction and how he hit rock bottom on the Straight Outta The Lair Podcast with Flex Lewis. At his lowest point, Swoll confessed to how he nearly took his own life when the pain became too much to bear. Highlighting the importance of having supportive friends and family, Swoll posted on Instagram about one of the scariest nights of his life. 

“Suffering from depression and addiction, I needed help. That night I called a friend to tell them I was hurting, scared, and really needed someone to be there for me. I NEVER asked for help because I was too proud and it made me feel weak. Their response was “I’m too tired to drive 45 minutes to see you”. That broke me and I just hung up the phone. I had been there for them time and time again, but my life wasn’t worth 45 minutes? That pain pushed me over the edge to end it and it was one of the scariest nights of my life. I didn’t think I was going to wake up the next morning” Swoll wrote. 

Three years later, Joey Swoll expressed gratitude that he woke up after that horrible night and was proud of what he had been able to accomplish since that incident. Following the harrowing experience, Swoll turned things around, got sober, and inspired many others who have sought recovery. Joey Swoll expresses his thankfulness for the second chance at life. 

“Thank God I did and every single day I’ve opened my eyes after that has been a blessing I’m very grateful for. 3 years later I’m clean, happy, and in a great place physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.”

Though Swoll continues to serve as an inspiration, especially for those who suffer from mental health issues and drug abuse, he believes talking about these topics is critical to personal growth.

RELATED: Joey Swoll Calls Out Man for Breaking Shirtless Gym Rules: ‘If You Can’t Respect the Staff, Stay Home’

Aside from his internal struggles, Joey Swoll and Arnold Schwarzenegger were recently motivated by Dave Danna’s incredible weight loss transformation where the influencer lost over 121 pounds in two years. After much adversity, Swoll has no intention of slowing down in his journey to make gyms more welcoming places. 

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