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Addiction Quote by Anne Roiphe

“However, there probably is a slight connection between the high-wire, super sensitivity, open to everything and too much, and slightly fragile soul of the artist and the need to self-medicate, which can lead to bad trouble either in drugs, or alcohol. So it's not that there's no connection, it's…” quote by Anne Roiphe
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“However, there probably is a slight connection between the high-wire, super sensitivity, open to everything and too much, and slightly fragile soul of the artist and the need to self-medicate, which can lead to bad trouble either in drugs, or alcohol. So it's not that there's no connection, it's just that we can't make too much of it because it isn't the addiction that's the issue, it's the fragility of some people who do artistic work, who end up in rehab somewhere or other.”

Anne Roiphe

About This Quote

Source Interview: Discussing Artists' Vulnerabilities, 1995

Artists often have heightened sensitivity that can make them fragile, leading some to self‑medicate, but the core issue is their vulnerability, not addiction itself.

In simple terms: Creative sensitivity can cause fragile coping habits.

Key Takeaway

Support artists' mental health.

Themes

sensitivity vulnerability creativity addiction coping

Mood

concerned empathetic

Type

reflective cautionary

When to use this quote

  • studio stress
  • performance pressure
  • rehab treatment

Key Concepts

psychology mental health artistic temperament

Questions to Reflect On

  • What support systems can protect sensitive creators?
  • How to distinguish vulnerability from addiction?
A Different Perspective

Not all artists need intervention; stigma may prevent help‑seeking.

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