Rick Springfield Discusses His Journey with Alternative Depression Treatments

Rick Springfield candidly addresses his experiences using drugs for managing depression in a recent exclusive interview. The 75-year-old singer, known for his hit "Jessie's Girl," has faced depression since his teenage years.

Springfield shared with PEOPLE that he recently experimented with ketamine therapy to find relief. "I wanted to see if it’d open a few things in my brain," he remarks. He describes this period as a "creative experiment." Although he followed the suggested duration, he found it left him feeling "heavy and machinelike." While the therapy did not seem to change much initially, he acknowledges that it led to a significant increase in his writing.

Following his experience with ketamine, Springfield has turned to micro-dosing. "I did acid, and that was actually a little better," he reveals. This return to a method he hadn't tried since his twenties provided him with a more positive experience. Springfield emphasizes, "I’m not averse to anything that helps me be happier." His ongoing search for improved mental well-being continues.

Two years ago, Springfield made the decision to reduce his alcohol consumption. He credits this choice as one of his most effective strategies. "That has actually helped more than anything," he explains. Springfield acknowledges that drinking had crept into his routine, stating, "As you get older, it’s kind of a natural thing to drop all that." While he occasionally has a drink on stage, he no longer consumes alcohol in his daily life.

In addition to cutting back on alcohol, Springfield has been focused on appreciating life’s simple pleasures. He enjoys walking on the beach with his wife, Barbara Porter, and their dog. He admits, "Those are things that I used to think were a waste of time." Embracing these moments contributes to his healing process, as he refrains from criticizing himself for taking time away from work.

Springfield has long been an advocate for mental health awareness. He believes sharing his personal experiences is essential. Recently, he released Volume 2 of his Greatest Hits album and plans to embark on his I Want My '80s tour starting May 28. "I want people to know they’re not alone," Springfield asserts. He likens the power of shared experiences to the way people connect in grief, emphasizing the positive impact of open discussions about mental health.

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