By: Jim Baumbach – March 29, 2020

Darryl Strawberry has a message for people who, like him, are trying to stay sober during this difficult time: Reach out and stay connected. He also is encouraging people who have loved ones in recovery to check in on them during this time of self-isolation.

“I think so many people are on the edge of going to drinking and going to drugging to escape,” Strawberry said. “And I can tell you right now: It will not help you. It will not change the situation. What changes the situation is you inside when you make the right decision.

“Those of us who have been on the journey and have been in a good place for a long time, we have a lot more advice to give you. I changed the course of my life as far as people, places and things and went into a different direction.”

The former Mets and Yankees star, who said he has been sober for 17 years, said in an interview with Newsday that he is especially concerned with young people as they deal with the uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. “This time worries me a little bit about them,” he said, “because of the time off and the uncertainty. They’re probably scared.”

Strawberry, 58, said it is crucial for people to use technology such as online video platforms FaceTime and Zoom to stay in touch with people, especially those who may be at risk.

Tags: