Ivan Moody of Five Finger Death Punch Celebrates First Year of Sobriety

Watch his emotional Instagram video
Ivan Moody of Five Finger Death Punch performing on the main stage on day 3 of the 2016 Reading Festival
Photo credit Press Association
By Audacy

By: Anthony Capobianco (via WAAF

Five Finger Death Punch vocalist Ivan Moody is proud to say that he has completed his first full year of sobriety in an emotional Instagram video. "I'm speechless, man. A lot of people didn't think I'd make it 24 hours, and and to be honest with you there were times where I didn't either."

"It's not even really about me necessarily, today. It's about the people who didn't make it. I met a lot of great people in and out of recovery and I'm on the road for that matter. I still talk to people that are battling this disease. You're the ones that are in my thoughts, and I'm with you every step of the way whether you have 24 hours or you have 24 years."

Moody had been battling alcoholism for many years and it wasn't until he cut the band's set short at the DCU Center when it was clear that he was dealing with a serious a problem. After admitting himself into rehab, Bad Wolves vocalist Tommy Vext briefly took over singing duties for the band's ongoing tour. Vext, a former addict himself, was honored by Moody for aiding in his ongoing recovery at the conclusion on their tour in the Fall of 2018.

5FDP bassist Chris Kael congratulated his bandmate for this milestone, espcially since he himself had just passed his first full year of sobriety in February 2019. "I’ve seen firsthand the work that Ivan has done through 365 consecutive days to get himself to this HUGE milestone. I’ve seen the amazing, positive changes in him over this past year that have gotten closer and closer to the man we all knew he could be. I’m proud of you, my friend."

Mental health, addiction, and relapses are very real. You are not alone, and we understand. If you or anyone you know is struggling with depression and thinking of suicide, know that someone is always there. Additionally, give a call to 1-800-662-HELP (4357), the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's national helpline, at any time, any day of the year, and free of charge.

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