Cara Delevingne believes addiction encompasses more than just drugs and alcohol, drawing parallels between substance abuse and the compulsive use of smartphones and social media.
"Everyone's addicted to something. We're animals," Delevingne stated in an interview with Playboy. She explained that the design of technologies like social media algorithms is intended to be captivating and can create a cycle that keeps users "trapped."
Delevingne's own journey with sobriety has informed her views. She noted that discussions about her recovery have resonated with fans, with many sharing their own experiences with sobriety.
"It saved my life. It's no small thing," she said, emphasizing that sobriety has been beneficial for individuals processing significant life events. "I don’t know one person who has had a period of sobriety... that [sobriety] hasn’t helped."
The actress also reflected on how sobriety has impacted her personal life, particularly her relationships and intimacy. "Sex sober after all of that is definitely difficult," she admitted. "It changes, but it's so much deeper and so much more emotional."
Delevingne stated that she previously sought validation through sex, realizing in sobriety that she was searching for love and affirmation. "I used to put a higher value on sex and validation from people," she said. "I used to think, 'Oh, I'm a pervert. I'm a really horny person.' But I think [I was] seeking love and validation through sex."
Her perspective is rooted in her personal experience with addiction. In a previous appearance on the "Call Her Daddy" podcast, Delevingne revealed that she was using GHB daily before experiencing seizures that served as a catalyst for her recovery. She explained that the seizures occurred shortly before paparazzi photos, taken at Burning Man in 2022, circulated widely and sparked concern.
Delevingne had intended to stop using drugs after her 30th birthday celebration but learned she had become physically dependent on GHB. "I didn't know how addictive that stuff was," she said, noting that medical detox was necessary. "I started having seizures and that's literally, [the 2022] photos were taken right after I'd had a seizure at Burning Man."