Lexi Jones: Wilderness Therapy Kept Me From Dad's Deathbed

Alexandra "Lexi" Jones, daughter of the late David Bowie and supermodel Iman, has shared a harrowing account of her teenage years. At just 14 years old, Jones was removed from her home and placed into a wilderness therapy program and subsequent rehabilitation center. She alleges that this experience, stemming from her struggles with depression, substance abuse, and an eating disorder, meant she was unable to be with her father during his final days in 2016.

Jones detailed how her descent into substance abuse began as an escape from personal difficulties. The decision was made to send her away for treatment, leading to her removal from the family home by force. She spent 91 days in a wilderness program before transitioning to a treatment center where she stayed for over a year. During this time, David Bowie passed away.

She expressed profound grief over not being present at her father's bedside, noting his death announcement stated he was surrounded by family, while she was still in treatment. Jones stated she spoke to him two days prior on his birthday and they both knew it was a significant moment. After returning home, she experienced further interventions, leading to additional periods away, which she described as mental and emotional abuse.

The troubled teen industry, a sector comprising various youth programs, has faced scrutiny for underregulation. Similar accounts of alleged mistreatment have emerged from public figures like Paris Hilton, who described severe experiences at youth facilities in the past.