Don Henley’s Health Problems: A Look at the Challenges He’s Faced Throughout His Career
Don Henley, perhaps best known as the drummer and co-lead vocalist of the Eagles, has had a long and successful music career spanning several decades. Despite his achievements, Henley has faced several health challenges that have impacted his career. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the health issues Henley has faced and how he has dealt with them throughout his career.
Early Challenges
Henley’s first major health challenge occurred during the Eagles’ 1980 tour. During a performance in Long Beach, California, Henley collapsed on stage due to exhaustion. This incident led to the cancellation of the remainder of the tour and forced Henley to take a break from music to focus on his health.
Shortly after the collapse, Henley made the decision to quit smoking and adopt a healthier lifestyle. He also sought therapy to help him deal with the stresses of his career and personal life. This was a turning point for Henley, who later described the incident as a wake-up call that prompted him to take better care of himself.
Heart Issues
In 1990, Henley underwent quadruple bypass surgery to treat blockages in his coronary arteries. The surgery was successful, but Henley was forced to take a break from music for several months to recover.
Henley has since become an advocate for heart health and has used his platform to raise awareness about the importance of living a healthy lifestyle to prevent heart disease. He has also continued to prioritize his own health, adopting a plant-based diet and engaging in regular exercise.
Tinnitus
Henley has also struggled with tinnitus, a condition that causes a constant ringing or buzzing in the ears. Tinnitus can be caused by exposure to loud noises, which is common among musicians.
Henley has spoken publicly about his experience with tinnitus and the challenges it has posed for his career. He has taken steps to protect his hearing, wearing earplugs during concerts and avoiding exposure to loud noises whenever possible.
Mental Health
In addition to physical health challenges, Henley has also faced mental health issues throughout his career. He has spoken openly about his struggles with anxiety and depression, which he has sought professional help for.
Henley has used his music as an outlet to express his emotions and cope with his mental health challenges. He has also encouraged others to seek help when they are struggling, using his platform to raise awareness about mental health.
Conclusion
Don Henley’s health challenges have been a major part of his career journey. While these challenges have presented significant obstacles, Henley has remained resilient and has used his experiences to advocate for health and wellness. By prioritizing his own health and speaking openly about his struggles, Henley has become an inspiration to many.
