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A new Netflix documentary, Avicii — I’m Tim, released in December 2024, delves into the late DJ and producer Avicii’s struggles with anxiety, substance misuse, and the pressures of fame. Avicii, born Tim Bergling, died by suicide in April 2018 at the age of 28, leaving behind a legacy of chart-topping hits and a cautionary tale about the toll of mental health challenges in the music industry.
The documentary sheds light on Bergling’s dependence on alcohol and prescription medications, revealing how he initially turned to alcohol to manage self-doubt and stage nerves. In past interviews, he had spoken about how touring facilitated his habit, with easy access to alcohol making it difficult to avoid. He admitted feeling that drinking helped him loosen up on stage, leading to an increasing reliance on substances over time.
His struggles deepened as anxiety became a constant presence in his life. In voiceovers featured in the documentary, Bergling described the overwhelming nature of his emotions, likening the feeling to a weight in his gut. His parents, Klas and Anki, had recognized signs of anxiety in his teenage years and sought professional help, but as his fame grew, so did his reliance on substances as a coping mechanism.
The documentary also highlights the intervention staged by Bergling’s father and his manager, Arash Pournouri, which led him to seek treatment. Despite his efforts, including meditation, Bergling continued to battle overwhelming stress. His father later reflected that while Avicii had been open about his struggles, the burden of his career and mental health challenges had been immense.
