Metallica's James Hetfield, currently in rehab battling substance abuse, has broken his silence on the subject.

Two weeks ago, the band announced that work on the group's eighth studio album had stopped so Hetfield could check himself into an undisclosed facility to kick what was described as alcoholism and "other addictions."

"It took a lot for me to admit to my problems," Hetfield said at a statement posted at the band's fanclub site (www.metclub.com).

But the singer and guitarist said his efforts at cleaning up his act have been buoyed by the support he has received from fans.

"It's a great feeling to have the support and comfort for me as a person from all the friends I've made out there," he said in the message.

"Thanks very much, it means a lot."