I've relapsed over the past year: Backstreet Boys member on struggle with addiction

AJ McLean was admitted to rehab in 2001, 2002 and 2011

Singer AJ McLean has always been upfront and honest about his ongoing struggle with excessive alcohol consumption. In a recent interview with People magazine, the Backstreet Boys star opened up about his sobriety and how becoming a dad has helped him stay on track.

“You know, it’s interesting about sobriety with family and with kids — you still have to put yourself first, and that’s been a real big struggle for me,” McLean  admitted. “I have no shame in saying, I’ve relapsed over the past year. It’s no secret that this is a disease, and that it’s a daily struggle.”

PHOTO: AJMCLEAN

The singer, who has daughters Ava Jaymes, 6, and Lyric, 20 months, with wife Rochelle stated, “Are my kids and my wife a huge support, and a huge inspiration? Yes, a hundred percent,” the 40-year-old added.

“But, at the same time the biggest problem I deal with, is putting myself first because in my mind, you should put family first… you should put your kids first. But because I’m still very co-dependent, I want to make sure everyone’s cool.”

PHOTO: FANPOP

The singer entered rehab in 2001, 2002 and 2011 for depression and alcohol addiction. Throughout his career, has used his voice to not only help himself, but to help others who are struggling too.

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