Joe Don Rooney had been vocal about his struggles with alcohol over the past weeks when he returned to social media, and he recently shared a story which made fans concerned about his situation; what happened?
TRIGGER WARNING: This story contains topics about PTSD, alcoholism, and mental health problems. Reader's discretion is advised.
The Rascal Flatts guitarist took to social media to share what happened to him, saying he had a "PTSD experience" over the weekend when he flew from Denver to Nashville.
"This affected me and every single passenger on the plane but my story and experience might be a little different than the majority of other passengers," he clarified.
Let me tell you about my PTSD experience Sunday evening flying from Denver to Nash.
— JDR (@JoeDonRooney) January 16, 2024
This affected me and every single passenger on the plane but my story and experience might be a little different than the majority of other passengers.
11:05 PM - We landed on time at Nash (BNA.)…
He shared the full story, saying it all started at 11 p.m. when the aircraft he rode on landed in Nashville, but the incident didn't end until after 4 a.m. when he got his belongings.
Unfortunately, the experience triggered his claustrophobia and anxiety disorder.
Joe Don Rooney Shares Panic Attack Story
"So I stared freaking out a bit and I had to take the one pill I had left of the medication I take nowadays for my anxiety," he explained.
One pill wasn't enough for him. An hour after landing, he went inside the lavatory to practice breathing control then a few beads of sweat started to drop from his forehead. (via Taste of Country)
The flight attendants on board were sensitive to what he experienced at the time and would accomodate him as long as he leaves the lavatory because many passengers wish to use it.
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They offered him a drink, but he refused it as he is currently recovering from his addiction.
Rooney tried his best to calm himself down by listening to meditation music, counting exercies, and more.
"I say another prayer to God asking for the strength to hang on just a little longer," he added.
What Happened to Joe Don Rooney Afterwards?
Time passed by and finally, the jet bridge was attached to the plane and he had the. chance to leave the aircraft at around 2 a.m.
At first, he thought the bad experience was over, but he had to wait two hours before he can claim his things down the carousel.
"I was finally able to laugh - and I mean 'laugh out loud' laugh - about the whole ordeal," he said.
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