Gypsy Rose Blanchard Addresses Sobriety Post-Prison: Insights from Her Memoir

Gypsy Rose Blanchard feared her past could lead her to relapse after her prison release in December 2023. In an exclusive interview, she shares her journey and her fears surrounding drug addiction, PEOPLE reported. Gypsy Rose expresses concern about what awaited her outside, admitting, "I was concerned about relapsing before I got out of prison." Her memoir, "My Time to Stand," reflects her struggles and determination.

Blanchard elaborates on her history of opioid abuse, stemming from a complex relationship with her mother, Dee Dee. She recalls sneaking pain medications from her mother to cope with being victimized and controlled. "Her emotions were a whip that snapped against my self-worth," she reveals, highlighting how she found relief in drugs.

Gypsy Rose portrays the onset of her addiction vividly. She remembers her first experience using painkillers after a heated argument with Dee Dee. "I just wanted to relax," she recalls, leading to an enduring struggle that extended into her time in prison. Upon reflection, she recounts the challenges of obtaining substances behind bars, noting, "It was like, okay, you have to scrounge."

Despite the hardship of prison life, it was there that she found a path to recovery. Ultimately, the pressing worry about life outside was an obstacle. "In the real world, I’m sure it’s more accessible," she reflects, yet she remains determined. Thankfully, Gypsy states, "I haven’t gone looking, so I don’t really know how accessible it is."

Upon her release, her family became a pivotal support system. She credits her father, Rod, stepmother Kristy, and half-siblings Mia and Dylan as essential in her commitment to sobriety. "When I came out, I was surprised to learn that the family dynamic kept me away from that stuff," Blanchard says. "I haven’t thought about doing anything. I haven’t had any cravings."

Currently, Gypsy navigates personal challenges outside of prison, including a high-profile marriage and receiving public scrutiny. Now expecting a child with boyfriend Ken Urker, she emphasizes, "I'm very blessed." Despite the external pressures, Gypsy Rose's focus remains on staying clean and valuing her family's support amid life's turbulence.

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