Matthew Perry, known for his role as Chandler Bing on the popular sitcom Friends, has recently shared his heartfelt journey of battling addiction. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE magazine, the 51-year-old actor opened up about his struggles and expressed his gratitude for being alive today.

Perry revealed that his addiction struggles began during the height of his fame in the late 1990s. Despite being surrounded by success, he found himself trapped in a cycle of substance abuse that he couldn't break free from. His battle with addiction continued even after Friends ended in 2004.

The actor has been in and out of rehab several times over the past two decades, but it was during the Covid-19 pandemic that he hit rock bottom.

Perry admitted that the lockdown led him to some dark places, and he began to rely heavily on alcohol to cope with his emotions. He felt a sense of loneliness and despair that seemed insurmountable.

However, Perry's road to recovery began when he finally realized the severity of his addiction and decided to make a change. Recognizing the need for help, he checked into a treatment facility in 2020 and has been committed to sobriety ever since. He acknowledges that addiction is a lifelong struggle and that he must take it one day at a time.

In the interview, the actor emphasized the importance of communities and support networks in overcoming addiction. He expressed his gratitude for everyone who has stood by him during his darkest moments, including his fiancée, Molly Hurwitz, and his close friends and family. Perry believes that having a strong support system is crucial to staying on the path of recovery.

He also hopes that by sharing his story, he can inspire others who may be struggling with addiction to seek help. Perry wants people to understand that seeking treatment is not a sign of weakness but rather a courageous step towards a healthier and happier life.

The actor acknowledges that his journey to recovery is ongoing, and he remains grateful for the opportunity to be alive and make positive changes. He plans to focus on his sobriety while also continuing to pursue his acting career.

In conclusion, Matthew Perry's candid interview serves as a reminder of the powerful impact addiction can have on one's life. Through his own experiences, he hopes to raise awareness about the importance of seeking help and building a strong support system. Perry's journey is a testament to the fact that recovery is possible, and he is determined to continue his fight against addiction.