‘There is hope’: Australian Idol winner Kate DeAraugo talks winning battle against addiction

Former Australian Idol winner Kate DeAraugo has marked seven years “clean” with a candid confession about her battle with alcohol and drugs, telling her followers “recovery is possible”.

Former Australian Idol winner Kate DeAraugo has marked seven years ‘clean’. Picture: David Caird

Former Australian Idol winner Kate DeAraugo has spoken of winning her battle against addiction as she marks her seven years “clean” milestone.

DeAraugo, who recently gave birth to her second child, has put her experience forward as a beacon of hope for others struggling with demons.

“Hi, I’m Kate. I’m an addict, and I’m gratefully clean, seven years today,” she told her social media followers on Friday.

“If you’re out there feeling lost in addiction, thinking there’s no way out, I’m here to tell you that’s not true.

“I was there. I had lost everything — everyone. I thought I couldn’t survive without drugs and alcohol. But I finally got out of my own way, listened to the people who wanted to help, and took it one day at a time.

“It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it.

“Today, I have a life I never thought possible — my family, my home, my peace. I’ve faced life’s highest highs and lowest lows without needing a drink or a drug to get through.

“If you’re struggling, know this: as long as you have two feet on the ground, there is hope. Recovery is possible. And it’s waiting for you.”

Kate DeAraugo with Lee Harding and Emily Williams in 2005.

‘Young Divas’ Ricki Lee Coulter, Emily Williams, Kate DeAraugo and Paulini Curuenavuli in 2006.

DeAraugo won Australian Idol in 2005 and went on to become part of the Young Diva’s girl group.

Her life however went off the rails with drugs, alcohol and poor choices. Seven years ago she turned the corner and has returned to music and is the mother of two sons.