Nicky Jam on Struggling With Panic Attacks & PTSD “My Soul Was Dead!”

Addiction Struggles

Nicky Jam's battle with addiction was intense, involving heavy drug use even during his time in jail. He recounts taking 30 perks a day, a habit that severely impacted his health and career. Despite these challenges, he managed to find a path to recovery and success.

I was taking 30 perks a day. And if you know about perks, that's opium, that's heroin. Literally heroin in the pill. And it was just embarrassments after embarrassments.

--- Nicky Jam

His journey from addiction to becoming one of the biggest Latin artists in the world is a testament to his resilience and determination 1 2.

   

Rock Bottom

Hitting rock bottom, Nicky faced severe health issues that forced him to reconsider his lifestyle. A doctor's warning about potential paralysis was a turning point, leading him to quit drugs and endure a grueling detox process.

I stopped doing drugs. I got into a room for three days. It's like you're cold, your body's. You're vomiting, you're dying, you're cold, you're warm, you're sweaty, you're cold, you're warm. Three days of hell.

--- Nicky Jam

His song "Pnsas and Me" marked the beginning of his comeback, gaining unexpected popularity and reigniting his career 3 4.

   

Jail Time

Nicky's time in jail was another significant low point, but it also served as a period of reflection and growth. Despite the harsh conditions, he found ways to stay positive and even entertain fellow inmates.

I always look to find positive moments in bad moments. I joked around everybody that was in jail. I made jokes for them. I sang for them.

--- Nicky Jam

His resilience during these times laid the foundation for his eventual recovery and success 5 6.