In a raw and emotional social media update this week, Presley Gerber, the 26-year-old model and son of supermodel Cindy Crawford, has spoken candidly about his ongoing battle with 'scary' mental health issues. The media personality used his Instagram platform to share a black-and-white video, aiming to offer 'some clarity' to his followers about his personal struggles.
A Candid Look at Medication and Management
During the poignant clip, filmed inside a sauna, Gerber opened up about the complex regimen of medications he is taking to manage conditions that include severe night terrors and panic attacks. 'I feel like honesty is the best policy,' he began, before detailing his current prescriptions.
He revealed he is 'currently' on 1mg of Buprenorphine twice daily, a medication used to treat pain and opioid use disorders. Gerber also discussed his use of Benzodiazepines, or 'benzos', stating their dosage has been 'fluctuating up and down depending on what's been going on in my life.' These drugs, which help slow down brain and nervous system activity, are commonly prescribed for anxiety.
'Unfortunately, I've had a lot of loss in many different forms recently, so that is not an excuse, but it's the reason why I am where I'm at now,' he added, alluding to personal tragedies. This follows the passing of the family dog, Widget, in May, after nearly two decades with the Crawford-Gerber household.
Navigating Uncertainty and Seeking Direction
Gerber further explained he takes a small dose of Xanax at night or during severe panic attacks, and Valium 'a little bit in the morning'. He expressed frustration with the lack of clear guidance from medical professionals, a sentiment that contributes to his fear. 'Doctors say a lot of different things so it's kind of scary,' he admitted.
He described a confusing landscape where, instead of clear instructions, psychiatrists have given him options. 'I've had 15 [psychiatrists]... they're like, "Here's 20 medications and take this if you feel like this, take this as needed." And I'm like, "No, don't give me that much leeway." I need some direction.'
The model also takes medication for blood pressure and uses 'comfort meds' when adjusting other prescriptions, highlighting the intricate balance of his treatment.
Building a Supportive Community and Offering Hope
Towards the end of his video, Gerber discussed actively curating his environment to aid his recovery. He revealed he has stepped back from certain social circles, despite his affection for them. 'I've grown up in Hollywood, and there's a lot of people around that I love to death, but right now, I try not to be around them,' he confessed.
He has also abstained from alcohol, noting his last drink was on his birthday, July 2. His primary goal in sharing his story is connection and support. 'I have a feeling if I say all of this, a lot of people will at least know that there's someone else going through it... hopefully I find some people out here and are willing to help.'
Gerber captioned the clip: 'Here's some clarity for ya - the truth will set you free (hopefully) haha.' This post is part of his 'Mental Health Mondays' series, an initiative he started at age 23 to foster open discussion. He has previously labelled mental health struggles 'the ultimate pandemic', revealing he has faced them from 'a very young age'.
In a 2023 podcast appearance, he emphasised the constant nature of the battle, calling it a '24/7 job'. His journey has included personal expressions like tattoos, most notably a 'Misunderstood' face tattoo in 2020 which he has since had removed, stating he 'ran out of space real quick'.
