Makua Rothman Opens Up About Battling addiction and Finding Redemption in Big Wave Surfing
Makua Rothman, a renowned name in the world of big wave surfing, recently shared a deeply personal account of his struggles with addiction and his journey toward recovery. His story is a powerful testament to the challenges faced by athletes,the allure of self-medication,and the possibility of finding strength in vulnerability.It’s a narrative that resonates far beyond the surf community,offering insights into mental health,trauma,and the path to self-acceptance.
Rothman detailed a period between 2015 and 2018 where he spiraled into destructive patterns. He admits to using pills and blockers during competition, a revelation that underscores the hidden battles often fought beneath the surface of athletic achievement. Remarkably, he reflects on this time acknowledging he possessed the talent to win a world championship, even while grappling with these internal demons.
Specifically, Rothman discussed his use of opiates, initially as a misguided attempt to cope with insecurity and underlying trauma. He explained the initial appeal wasn’t rooted in physical pain, but in the temporary escape they provided.
“I was taking oxycodone,” he shared. “The worst part about it is that I just thought it was cool. I didn’t have any pain.”
He further elaborated on how the dopamine rush masked his self-doubt and feelings of inadequacy. Rothman realized the pills weren’t the core issue, but rather a symptom of deeper mental health struggles with shame and guilt. He attempted to numb these feelings with alcohol and cocaine, creating a hazardous cycle.
Perhaps the most harrowing aspect of his story is the revelation that he was using drugs while surfing some of the world’s most dangerous waves,including Jaws. He openly admits to crushing and snorting pills in the channel before paddling out into monstrous swells.
“I’m lucky I’m not dead,” Rothman stated, acknowledging the sheer recklessness of his actions. “I’ve competed and surfed in the biggest waves… I would go out to Jaws with pills in a pill container, crush ’em up, snort ’em, and go back surfing Jaws.”
Fortunately, Rothman eventually reached a turning point. He described a moment where he simply decided he wanted to live and reclaim his identity. This realization marked the beginning of his journey toward recovery.
Does he harbor regrets? To a degree, yes. However, he also expresses gratitude for the challenges he faced, recognizing they ultimately shaped him into the person he is today. He views his survival as a significant accomplishment.
“I’m proud of it, as a lot of people don’t make it to this side,” he said.
Rothman’s story serves as a powerful reminder that even those who appear to have it all together can be battling unseen struggles. His willingness to share his experiences is a testament to his courage and a beacon of hope for others facing similar challenges. It highlights the importance of addressing mental health, seeking help when needed, and embracing vulnerability as a strength.Ultimately, Makua Rothman’s journey is a compelling narrative of resilience, redemption, and the enduring power of the human spirit. It’s a story that deserves to be heard, not just within the surfing world, but by anyone seeking inspiration and understanding.
