Cheryl Burke of “Dancing with the Stars” on therapeutic honesty, addiction in the family and life in the spotlight

Cheryl Burke of “Dancing with the Stars” on therapeutic honesty, addiction in the family and life in the spotlight

Cheryl Burke, famed for her dazzling performances on 'Dancing with the Stars', reveals a much deeper story beyond the glitz and glamour. In this heartfelt episode of 'Heart of the Matter', Cheryl sits down with Elizabeth Vargas to discuss her personal battles with addiction, mental health, and the pressures of living in the spotlight. From a young age, Cheryl was taught that showing emotions equated to weakness.

This belief led her to alcohol as a means to numb her anxiety and uncertainties. But beneath her composed exterior, Cheryl was grappling with a dangerous cycle of functioning alcoholism. She opens up about how addiction has affected not just her life but also her family, including her father's struggles with alcoholism and her mother's emotional turmoil. Cheryl’s journey to sobriety wasn’t easy. Through therapy and deep self-reflection, she learned the importance of honesty—both with herself and others.

She emphasizes that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Cheryl also shares how meditation and other self-care practices have been pivotal in her recovery process. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that no matter how tough things get, there’s always hope and a path to healing. For anyone facing similar struggles, Cheryl’s candidness offers a beacon of hope and the encouragement to seek help.