Presley Gerber, the model and son of supermodel Cindy Crawford, struggled with addiction and mental health issues throughout his life, according to statements from family, friends, and those close to him. His challenges included diagnoses of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), though Presley himself later criticized the frequency with which such diagnoses were given.

Presley’s exposure to prescription drugs began early, with medications prescribed to manage a variety of symptoms, including anxiety, depression, and sleep difficulties. His substance use evolved into drug dependence, which he openly acknowledged as a persistent part of his life. Despite these struggles, Presley found success in the fashion industry, walking for Italian label Moschino at 16 and appearing in a Calvin Klein campaign alongside his sister Kaia Gerber. He also featured on the cover of GQ, which marked the rapid acceleration of his career.

In 2019, Presley was charged with driving under the influence and was sentenced to three years of probation. The following year, he had the word “Misunderstood” tattooed across his face, a reflection of his feelings about his lifelong battles. He later removed the tattoo as his perspective evolved.

Over the last three years, Presley began to candidly share his mental health journey on social media, creating a series titled Mental Health Mondays. In these videos, he discussed his experiences with depression, rehabilitation, and different forms of therapy, both conventional and alternative. His straightforward approach earned attention for reducing stigma around addiction and mental illness. Presley’s Instagram bio read simply “Be Kind,” underscoring his message of empathy.

Kaia Gerber, in an interview conducted a month before Presley’s death, spoke about the impact of his struggles on their family. She described how having multiple family members facing mental health challenges influenced her own reluctance to seek help. Kaia also commended Presley’s transparency, acknowledging that hiding struggles can contribute to shame and isolation.

Presley’s public posts ceased late last year, with reports indicating that he needed to focus on his own mental health. In the days following his death, speculation has emerged regarding his medical treatment, including reports that he had been prescribed ketamine, a drug previously associated with the death of actor Matthew Perry in 2023. Authorities are continuing investigations to determine the presence of any substances in Presley’s system at the time of his passing.

Just months before his death, Presley was visibly upbeat at a June fundraiser where he spoke openly about mental health. Surrounded by his parents, he described the freedom he felt in being honest with himself. Family friends and acquaintances emphasize the ongoing support Presley received from his family, despite the ongoing challenges he faced. Photographer Katie Levine recalled Presley as a charismatic, confident young man who was proud of his roots, while financial planner Will Beck highlighted the warmth and closeness within the Gerber family.

A close family friend reflected on the Gerbers’ experience of loss amid a seemingly perfect public image, noting that behind their fame and success there was profound heartbreak. While Presley’s passing marks the end of his personal suffering, it also leaves a void that his family says they will carry indefinitely.