Reality television star Khloe Kardashian has opened up about the painful realities of dealing with addiction during her marriage to former Lamar Odom.
In a candid reflection, Kardashian revealed how emotionally draining it was trying to support the former Los Angeles Lakers star through his struggles with substance abuse.
Odom’s battle with addiction
Odom’s issues with drugs and alcohol have been widely documented over the years. The former NBA player has openly admitted that his problems with addiction began even before he met Kardashian in 2009.
His personal struggles intensified when his basketball career took an unexpected turn. After learning that he could be included in a trade package that would have brought Chris Paul to Los Angeles, Lamar Odom requested a move away from the Lakers.
The situation marked a turning point in his career and, according to Odom himself, left him feeling lost and without direction.
As his addiction deepened, the impact on his personal life became increasingly difficult for those around him, particularly Kardashian, who tried to support him during the darkest moments.
Khloe Kardashian reflects on emotional toll
In a preview from the reality series The Kardashians, Khloe Kardashian shared an honest perspective on the challenges she faced while trying to help Lamar Odom overcome his addiction.
“I do believe addiction is a disease,” Khloe said. “I really, really do. The truth is: No one can really save someone from that except for that own individual. I had to learn the hard way that I can’t save anyone in that position. I almost lost myself — and I probably did at some points — trying to save him.”
Her remarks highlight the emotional toll the situation took on her as she attempted to support her then-husband through his struggles.
The aftermath of Lamar Odom’s near-fatal overdose
One of the most dramatic moments in Odom’s life came in 2015 when he was found unconscious at a Nevada brothel after suffering a near-fatal overdose.
At the time, the couple had already separated, yet Khloe Kardashian stepped back into his life to help manage his recovery.
Lamar Odom’s condition was critical—he reportedly suffered multiple heart attacks and strokes, leaving him unable to speak or move for a period of time.
Despite the severity of the situation, Kardashian remained involved in his rehabilitation and helped him regain basic strength.