EXCLUSIVE: Paris Hilton's Story 'Very Similar' To Lindsay Lohan's Says Dr. Drew
Sept. 10 2010, Published 4:21 a.m. ET
According to renowned board-certified addiction specialist Dr. Drew Pinsky, Paris Hilton’s recent drug arrest highlights how the heiress’ downward spiral is similar to another Hollywood cautionary tale.
"Paris Hilton's current problems related to her drug arrest and subsequent criminal charges are very much similar to the Lindsay Lohan story,” Pinsky told RadarOnline.com during an exclusive interview. “It's truly Lindsay Lohan's story in slow motion.”
It has been an eventful summer for Hilton: in July, she was detained and released after being caught in possession of cannabis at Figari airport in Corsica. She was also questioned about marijuana possession while attending the World Cup in South Africa. Then, on August 28, she was arrested on suspicion of cocaine possession in Las Vegas.
"There is no doubt in my mind that Paris needs to seek treatment, sooner rather than later. Whether it be in-patient treatment at a rehab facility, or out-patient, Paris needs help," Pinsky added.
Pinsky says the cannabis incidents specifically could lead to a problem most people incorrectly dismiss. "People don't believe that someone can be addicted to pot, I'm here to tell you they are dead wrong. I deal with it everyday. The fact that she had several run-ins over the summer, and then was arrested in Las Vegas for possession of cocaine gives me cause to worry.”
Pinsky pointed out that “addiction is a progressive disease. It’s progression in the face of of consequences and denial that are defining features of the disease. Paris meets that criteria."
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While he has never treated Hilton, Pinsky points out that her repeated substance-related brushes with the law indicate she is probably not just a recreational drug user.
“Recreational drug users don't have the issues that arise that she is currently dealing with. Paris could be using the cocaine because it might have more of a euphoric effect on her."
Despite her repeated struggles, Pinsky is cheering Hilton on. "I wish her only the best. I truly hope she gets the help she needs. She is facing a very serious drug charge and if this forces her to get help that she otherwise might not have, then that is a very good thing for her."