Rocking Sobriety: Dereak Messer on Balancing Music, Mental Health, and Gratitude
I always bring it up before that song in our live shows and always there's a few people that will come up to me after the show and thank me for that moment.
Ever wondered how a rock star manages to stay sober while on tour? In this episode of 'Knockin' Doorz Down', Jason LaChance and Mikey sit down with Dereak Messer, the lead vocalist of the band Messer. Dereak opens up about his personal journey to sobriety, the mental health challenges he faces, and how gratitude plays a pivotal role in his life.
You'll hear about the band's struggles during the pandemic, including how they kept their spirits high and continued making music despite the lockdowns. Dereak also shares his unique passion for knife-making and how it intersects with his music career, hinting at a future event called Messer Fest that could combine both interests. With a candid look at his past, Dereak talks about his father's battle with alcoholism and how it shaped his own decisions.
He never hit a 'rock bottom' moment but decided to quit because he was tired of the negativity that came with substance abuse. Instead, he focuses on being a good father, family man, and friend. Dereak also discusses the boundaries he's set with his ex-wife and how he maintains his well-being while touring. His honesty and vulnerability offer valuable insights for anyone struggling with addiction or mental health issues.
Whether you're a fan of rock music or someone looking for inspiration in your own recovery journey, this episode is packed with heartfelt stories and practical advice.