Sean Stewart, the son of rock legend Rod Stewart, has made a courageous decision to check himself into the renowned Cliffside Malibu rehab facility. At 44 years old, Sean reflects on a turbulent past marred by substance abuse, emotional turmoil, and the challenges of navigating his identity amid the towering legacy of his father. The various disorders he has faced since childhood, including ADHD and dyslexia, have significantly influenced his mental health and coping mechanisms over the years. In an introspective interview with the Daily Mail, Sean disclosed the deep-rooted pain stemming from these struggles, labeling himself as “Stupid Stewart” due to the ridicule he endured during his formative years.
As medical research indicates, ADHD is a complex developmental disorder characterized by attention deficits, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. In Sean’s case, these symptoms have dramatically impacted his self-esteem and academic performance. He has candidly stated that coping with ADHD led him to feel inadequate, particularly when juxtaposed against the phenomenal success achieved by his father. Sean’s narrative is a powerful reminder of how childhood experiences can cast long shadows, influencing behavior and mental health well into adulthood.
The aftermath of Sean’s formative years left him grappling with his identity and self-worth. He has openly admitted to battling against feelings of inferiority, a relentless struggle fueled further by his father’s celebrity status. This gripping sense of inadequacy ultimately contributed to his choice to self-medicate with drugs and alcohol, particularly after enduring a painful divorce from his wife Jody Weintraub in 2024. Sean’s relationship with Julia Stambler, a former partner of Charlie Sheen, marks yet another complex chapter in his life as he seeks stability during tumultuous times.
“I am here to deal with the pain that I had in my childhood,” admits Sean, recognizing the formative impact of his struggles with ADHD. His therapeutic journey, now taking place at Cliffside’s serene setting—filled with yoga, equine therapy, and other wellness options—has become an essential part of his healing process. Sean hopes to shift the narrative surrounding ADHD, dyslexia, and related disorders, aiming to provide an alternative perspective. He emphasizes that these struggles do not define the course of one’s life, expressing a deep desire to transform his adversity into a source of strength.
Sean Stewart has continued his commitment to transparency, a trait he believes can inspire others facing similar battles. His candidness is rooted in the emotional scars left by a history of substance abuse, including a near-fatal overdose in 2001, and he is determined to utilize his experiences for a greater purpose. “I want to be a role model and help others find their way,” he explains, reflecting on the importance of vulnerability in mental health discourse.
Throughout his journey, Sean has expressed his admiration for notable public figures who share their struggles and draw attention to the significance of mental health awareness. He recognizes that there are countless individuals suffering in silence, and he is resolute about using his platform to encourage others to seek help. The emotional weight of these burdens is significant, and he hopes his story can shed light on the path to recovery for those in need of encouragement.
While Sean may currently be without children, the thought of family remains crucial in his vision for the future. He has shared his aspiration to one day establish a loving household and create a nurturing environment for children. This yearning for family underscores his belief in growth and renewal, aspiring to become the person he once thought he could never be.
As Sean Stewart embarks on this intensive therapeutic journey, he stands as a model of resilience and hope. By confronting his demons and embracing his vulnerabilities, he aims not only to reclaim his life but also to extend a hand to those battling similar issues. The process may be challenging, but his commitment to healing and personal growth inspires those who might feel lost in their struggles. Sean’s story is one of courage, determination, and a relentless quest to transform pain into purpose.