Nicholas Brendon enters rehab

Troubled actor Nicholas Brendon has checked into rehab to face his demons following a string of arrests this year (15).

The former Buffy the Vampire Slayer star began treatment at a facility in California on Monday (01Jun15) to tackle issues including depression and substance abuse.

A statement posted on his Facebook.com page reads, "Earlier today, with the support of his professional team, his friends, and his family, Nicky entered a rehabilitation facility in California to treat his depression, alcoholism, and substance abuse problems. He's taking the steps necessary to better his health and give himself, and his fans, the gift of a healthy lifestyle.

"He has been aware of his problems for some time - and with each new challenge, he gained a greater understanding of what needed to be done to overcome these obstacles and move forward with his life. Since his arrest last October, Nicky had tried several treatment methods - from therapy, to outpatient services- only to realize recently that he needed to take an extended break and treat the underlying issues of his illnesses. Nicky will not be attending any events during the months of June and July - but has plans to return to the circuit in late summer after he has successfully completed his treatment program."

The rehab news comes just two weeks after Brendon's third arrest this year (15), when he was detained by police in South Carolina on 16 May (15) and charged with public intoxication and impairment.

The 44 year old was previously arrested in Florida in March (15) for allegedly trashing a hotel room and he was subsequently ordered to undergo regular testing to keep him off booze. His third arrest was in February (15), when he was accused of causing trouble at another hotel in Florida, just days after he announced his split from his wife of five months, Moonda Tee.