Grammy-winning artist Alanis Morissette is known for her raw honesty and emotional depth—and she’s once again proving that vulnerability is power. In a recent interview with The Guardian, the singer-songwriter opened up about the surprising addictions that have quietly shaped her life: not to substances, but to work, love, sex, and shopping.

Morissette describes them as “Whac-a-Mole” addictions—habits that pop up in cycles, offering momentary relief but ultimately leaving her emotionally drained. “There’s no worth in just being,” she explained, reflecting on the constant pressure to produce, perform, and prove her value.

These behaviors, she noted, are deeply tied to feelings of emptiness and the relentless pursuit of external validation. While each addiction offers a short-lived sense of fulfillment, they eventually contribute to burnout and emotional fatigue—something many can relate to in today’s hyper-connected, high-performance culture.

Her candid admission resonates far beyond celebrity circles. In an era dominated by curated social media feeds and the glorification of hustle culture, many people find themselves in similar patterns—chasing productivity, love, or material satisfaction in hopes of filling emotional gaps. Morissette’s willingness to name these behaviors for what they are—coping mechanisms that become compulsions—invites a larger conversation about mental health and self-worth.

Best known for iconic tracks like “You Oughta Know” and “Hand in My Pocket,” Morissette has long used her music to explore emotional complexity. Her 2020 album, Such Pretty Forks in the Road, dove deep into themes of trauma, motherhood, aging, and healing. Her recent revelations align with the introspective tone of her recent work and reinforce her ongoing advocacy for mental wellness.

By publicly acknowledging her own struggles, Morissette challenges the myth that fame or success equates to inner peace. Her story underscores the value of self-awareness and encourages others to reflect on the hidden habits they may be using to avoid emotional discomfort.

Her honesty offers a critical reminder: addiction isn’t always about substances. It’s often about what we turn to—repeatedly and unconsciously—when we’re trying to escape ourselves.

Alanis Morissette’s brave disclosure adds to the growing chorus of voices working to destigmatize mental health conversations. And in doing so, she not only redefines strength but also inspires others to begin their own journey toward self-worth, beyond the cycle of achievement or acquisition.