Wendy Williams asks people to seek help for addiction: 'Don’t be ashamed, there is hope. I’m living proof'
Wendy Williams has extended a helping hand for people struggling with addiction. Citing her own life as an example, the television personality stated that she is living proof of hope for anyone who is trying to get better or is struggling with substance abuse.
In a national public service announcement for The Hunter Foundation and T.R.U.S.T., Williams encouraged people to seek help for their addiction.
“Hi, I’m Wendy Williams Hunter,” she stated, as reported by People. “My organization, The Hunter Foundation, recently launched a nationwide hotline to offer treatment resources for you if you are a drug addict or substance abuser. 1-888-5HUNTER.”
She further added that the people on the other end of the phone are trained professionals who would be happy to lend their support to anyone in need of help.
“The calls are being answered by specially-trained, certified recovery coaches,” Wendy, who has battled with substance abuse in the past, said.
“They’re very smart. They conduct screenings to determine your needs. The substance abuse will be taken care of.”
She further added that those who wish to make a change in their life will be provided with the treatment that suits them the best and helps them get back on track with life.
“We will provide you with referrals for long- or short-term treatment at facilities all around the world: detox, rehab, sober living and outpatient centers everywhere, nationwide.” she continued.
She concluded by stating that everyone fights their demons and there is no need for feeling ashamed. “If you’re an addict or a substance abuser, don’t be ashamed — help is here for you or a family member or a loved one. Call. Don’t be ashamed, there is hope. I’m living proof,” she ended.
The hotline was launched on March 11 and since then it has received 10,000 calls.
“10,000 calls in three weeks is remarkable! We’re doing our part by getting the word out,” Wendy said in a statement. “All it takes is one call to get on the right path. We’re here to help.”
This development comes after the television host opened up about her battle with Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disease that affects the thyroid, due to which she decided to take a hiatus from her show.
After appearing on the show again, Wendy thanked her fans for the support and stated that she was doing better while also shutting down rumors about her marriage woes.
"I want to shout-out to my husband. I’m still wearing my ring,” she said.
“Believe me you, when you’ve been with somebody for 28 years, married for 25 years … we know each other. … I know what you’ve been seeing … but I’m still very much in love with my husband and anyone who’s been married … you know.” Wendy further added that every marriage requires a lot of effort from both the partners and she and her husband were doing just fine.
“Marriages have ebbs and flows, marriage isn’t easy. And don’t ask me about mine until you see this gone. And it ain’t going anywhere, not in this lifetime." she said. Wendy has also referred to her husband as her "best friend" and "lover" on the show, implying that everything is going well between the two.