Animation vs. Addiction

No, this episode is not about nether wart.
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Alan Becker
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Sammi Alea - sammialea.com/
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[@alanbecker]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/fHOVhoWNlKd2adE

[@tamari108]

Oooo looks like therse a private vid here

[@Man_face_cup]

Tottaly NOT an Rickroll

[@ЕдуардСтроїн]

Hello

[@KingAwake]

woohoo im early

[@THRY-e5u]

yo, 4th!

[@ZonieMusic]

2:06 - with each press, the poly count of the environment lowers. It's most obvious if you focus on the trees. Lovely use of poly count to show mental degradation. When blue "heals" the environment becomes very detailed, even more so than when this animation started. Haven't seen anyone else point it out, so I hope to contribute to sharing even more amazing attention-to-detail that Alan has put into this.

[@oi_bruv]

Perhaps an indication that he has gotten over something else other than buttons?

[@mewCaedin]

@@oi_bruvI think it’s to show that the real world is becoming more and more dull since it no longer is like what the buttons make it like, making blue further want the buttons

[@atlasdev]

@@oi_bruv I think it's a side effect of the mindfulness and meditation he went through. He became more aware of the world around him, even more aware than before the addiction.

[@SeanErnstHuerva]

Thx man,now I don't have to do it

[@lezacojo]

I only realized it when Orange started helping Blue. :3

[@ramirez6410]

As a student of psychology, I highly recommend this animation! In a dynamic and engaging way, it illustrates the gradual process of chemical dependence, covering topics such as cross-dependence, resistance to change, tolerance, rebound effect, and emotional and physical deterioration. Additionally, it highlights the importance of a support network and how techniques like meditation can aid in the treatment process. I found it very insightful! Excellent work, Alan!

[@BlAnWh]

Cool

[@Free_eyewasher]

That’s some real facts there

[@JesusPlsSaveMe]

​@@BlAnWh *Revelation 3:20* Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. HEY THERE 🤗 JESUS IS CALLING YOU TODAY. Turn away from your sins, confess, forsake them and live the victorious life. God bless. *Revelation 22:12-14* And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.

[@JesusPlsSaveMe]

​@@Free_eyewasher To everyone in this chat, I just want to let you know that *Jesus loves you* and he can *save you from sin,* sadness and sickness.

[@Breadnought-pj2tx]

the message is dont press buttons

[@neoqzz]

As a recovering addict, I genuinely relate to this so hard. It's so well made, the portrayal of harming yourself more and more just to push through is amazing. I also noticed that tsc is more dull/behind a fog, also symbolizing how you don't even notice people trying to help you. You think they're restraining you from feeling better. The conflict between getting better/healing and relapsing is so relatable, the urges to relapse absolutely flooding your mind until you can't do it anymore and relapse. TSC stopping helping Blue for a moment at 8:00 really shows issues with people close to you giving up on helping you get better because they simply don't have the patience. Blue getting blindfolded symbolizes how sometimes you just gotta isolate yourself from the world around you and your issues to heal. I was not expecting this to be so well made AND relatable, thank you Alan and his team.

[@Ahnock]

yeah, this one REALLY hit home. i was sobbing when tsc paused after blue hit him.

[@TroubleDuo01]

The times when he was trying to meditate and all he could think of was the buttons really got to me. It really does dominate everything.

[@aprettyfunnyperson4516]

I am a recovering addict also. We’ve got this, brother, in Jesus’s name

[@yahyakhazbak4713]

I respect everything you've said because I was feeling that In the past but I wasn't addicted , it was just a bad habit so dear viewers don't take the video as a funny video because this may help you alot

[@dragonrage500]

The fact that orange never actually gave up trying to help. not till the last time where he basically said blue has to make the CHOICE to get help.

[@cherrystreetclearinghouse]

At 6:00 the surroundings regain their detail. I am almost 2 years completely sober and only recently has this been happening in my inner life. I am thankful to have found this animation. I am moved to tears. Thank you to the people that created this. ✨

[@Judegames-i3h]

Proud of you really good job

[@FloofyPanic]

In most addiction videos, they show how the person gets the addiction and the affects of it, but never how they deal with it and improve. I love how Alan shows how Blue’s friend helped him out, how getting help doesnt always work immediately, how addiction will try to pull you back, but you just gotta keep working hard to reject any urges. Beautiful.

[@swwl5461]

admiting that you need help is often the hardest part

[@bprfactplay]

@@swwl5461 And blue did that. But beside admitting, there should be someone to help you and guide you. That someone dosent have to be a therapist or a friend. It can be a religion. At least that's what that has been a huge help for me.

[@combotiger847]

@@swwl5461 honestly yeah since the victim might think that asking for help will pull them away from the drug and ruin their life (cuz of the placebo effect caused by it)

[@haileyrain9305]

Indeed. They show the addiction, but not the person with the addiction. They leave out that they are people, but they have addictions.

[@ninjamaster9094]

They also show that it’s easy to try and fight away any thoughts that might pull you back into an addiction, when the healthiest thing to do is to just let those thoughts pass over you without engaging with them

[@danhatter6823]

I love that whenever Blue hits SC, there’s a real weight to it. Unlike in other animations where it’s supposed to be them fighting and having cool scenes, here it feels more like watching somebody lash out at a loved one and then regret it afterwards.

[@M3LANYISH3R3]

YESS OMG that made me want to cry

[@WalbtuhWhite]

I just love how the first words in the description is just “No, this episode is not about nether wart.” Lol

[@diet_water.]

@@WalbtuhWhite at least they acknowledge it

[@Drin792]

True, usually addicts are willing to do anything just to get what they want, that includes hurting someone physically, psychologically, verbally, etc

[@scoobyman254]

How did he make a vid with addiction math coding geometry and physics bro how at this point he can make anything

[@just3nzo267]

9:22 the psychology and mindset of not giving the vice ANY THOUGHT AT all being more effective than trying to mentally fight it off is so powerful when it comes to bad habits and addiction. Vices and evil only have as much power as you will to give it- so if you will to give it no power, it’ll have no power over you. Not to say evil won’t effect you externally, but evil within such as addiction becomes mitigated. Obv such things take time, but this was so beautifully illustrated… this is my idea of what true modern art is/should be

[@coolaxlotldude6794]

"only have as much power as you give to it" is something I'm keeping that quote in my back pocket.🙂

[@SarahAbramova]

I also think it's a good visualization of meditation. Letting thoughts pass by and not judging them, just focus on the here and now. Just breathing.

[@giggabiite4417]

I also really love the fact that the thoughts are still around, they just become less important over time.

[@unrellated]

I reject the notion that there's only one correct way to fight it. The punching looked like it was working. And TSC's method gave me the impression that the thoughts were being absorbed and internalized.

[@SarahAbramova]

@unrellated it wasn't working. You can see that Blue was struggling to continue breathing when it was fighting. Much like how you can't really "fight" thoughts you don't like. When small Blue continued to breathe, the thoughts were weaker, and Blue could breathe.

[@bodeeangus9957]

My mom has struggled with opioid addiction since I was a small child, and even as an adult she still struggles today. This animation brought tears to my eyes because I have seen her endless struggle against this substance warp her sense of reality so completely that she lost who she was. This has helped me understand what it must have been like for her this whole time, and I have a renewed sense of empathy for her struggle. I know how it feels to be the orange one, but now I have some sense of understanding of what she must be going through. Thank you.

[@igaffex]

5:08 I like how orange starts off looking a bit foggy, like blue isn't fully aware he's there. But when orange hugs blue, everything around them starts to sort of solidify and blue's actually aware of his presence

[@jemmine]

@@igaffex actually if you look at the scene only the buttons are in full color I believe that is because that’s all he cares about

[@TheRoyalberry]

.Jesus saves✝️.

[@Potato72080]

​@@TheRoyalberry No

[@minasthirith6314]

@@TheRoyalberry go away, churchboy, this isn't about you.

[@FireFlame-TSF]

@@jemmine i didn’t realize that but that’s such a cool detail

[@mitchelvanwijk]

Wow, this was more dramatic than I thought. I like the more serious tone in this episode as well as the button metaphor. I'm glad Orange could help Blue overcome his addiction... at least the one that isn't his Nether Wart addiction lol

[@valemontesinos5598]

The name of Orange is Second Coming :)

[@mewCaedin]

@@valemontesinos5598we know, but most of us still call tsc Orange

[@azubuikeware241]

Nether Wart is probably healthy anyways

[@TheBoss0548]

@@azubuikeware241 its a fangus tho, those are bad for u

[@blackblizzard3618]

@@valemontesinos5598 we know who he’s talking about when he says orange

[@惠心Megumi]

I love that in the end, the landscape doesn't become like, super lively and rainbows and sunshine. It's still grey, but at least it's brighter and has slight hints of color. It's not like you're immediately alright and fine after you quit, but you're on the way to healing genuinely.

[@goofy18181]

yeah it becomes more beautiful and even though it's a gray landscape the sky becomes colorful I think it shows how addiction may make it seem that life is dull and gray without it (shown by the landscape every time blue touches that button) but it's far from the truth

[@kastoridesbobur]

It became 3-d

[@Sleepy_Cabbage]

Finding peace in mundanity is a miracle

[@Shihara_s]

The sky becomes white, which in this case when you put all the colors together, white appears, so it kind of shows that now the pleasures he sought from pressing all the buttons together, had already existed for a long time and he just didn't notice

[@goldenheart__]

i interpreted it as more of a ‘yeah, the world still sucks, its still gray, but theres so much beauty still left in it that the addiction blinds you from’. though i suppose it could be both!!

[@midnightinferno]

I love at 6:00 how when he finally starts to get help you see how his addiction was affecting his worldview. It affected how he saw the world and he wasn't seeing his friend how he truly was. Addiction leaves you in a sort of fog where you can't see things properly. I really like how it showed the importance of someone who cares about you lovingly stopping you from going down the path you've been on. But you have to be willing to get and receive the help. It also shows the constant struggle, that just because you're on the right path doesn't mean you dont want to go back to whatever your drug is. You have to consistently choose to resist, flee temptation, and pursue something better; for me Christ has been crucial for my recovery.

[@datkiddmixx]

@@midnightinferno amen I agree he's helping me with mine too

[@josephcidrin]

What I liked most about this animation is the way it portrays addiction realistically, without being that typical "the friend saves the addict and then they live happily ever after without any struggle after that" the process of self-overcoming and Blue's relapses show how addictions are destructive in an incredible way.

[@Artstyalfie]

I like the description, "no, this isn't about nether wort"

[@genikit5795]

Indeed. Friends can help, but sometimes, it's ultimate up to us to overcome something on our own.

[@elymationgg7706]

true I see a fellow wise man well sayed

[@Yes_Hello2]

The friend guides but blue had to change internally before the friend could actually help him basically

[@SirsasthNigam.]

as a person whose family has history of addiction I hate that trope because it downplays relapses & aftermath of addiction recovery

[@Rhopalocera1]

Thank you for this, Alan. A few things of note: Gut-feeling hesitation 0:22 Tolerance 2:06 Gateway drugs 2:28 Self-awareness 2:35 Compounding effect 3:09 Being "pulled in" without realizing it 2:57 & even 1:42 Withdrawls 3:56 Dependency 3:56 Debilitating Dependency 4:37 Disconnection 5:11 What it does to those who love you 5:25 What it does to you 5:50 The strength loved ones need to have 5:55 What the begining of sobriety feels like 6:01 The decision & the sense of desperation ere just feel so freaking real 6:26 Medotation 7:04 i love that the breathing exercises are actually at a speed we the audience can breath along to ith the characters. Intrusive thoughts 7:08 Relapse 7:21 & the kind of friends you NEED in those moments 7:28 😂 7:38 😢 7:52 😢 Trying again even if shakily 7:32 Seeing your support group for what they're tying to do 8:06 and then trying new methods if the first ones dont work 8:33 What it looks like to simultaneously support yet also let them fight their own battle 8:37 The urge to fight the thoughts back by force 8:50 The strength that can be found in fighting back the thoughts by changing focus 9:20 How easy it is to romanticize the past. I've never seen a depiction of this and it was really cool to see 9:42 Holding strong 10:09 Almost giving in, realizing it, and strongly turning away 10:16 It doesn’t stop, but it does becomes easier. 10:27 Waiting for them to seem like their ready 10:44 Asking if they are ready 10:46 Bringing them back to the life they took a breif break from & helping them see what they've been missing. 10:51 ❤ Make sure you tell blue we love him and that he knows how his story is inspiring people. I'm sharing it with a few of my friends who need it right now.

[@joshyfommy]

medotation this is genuinely awesome tho

[@itsxava10]

Man, this prob took awhile to write. WE LUV YA BLUE AND ALAN This is amazing tho, I can really relate to blue being additive to some things and how he tries to get rid of the addiction

[@kabl3x]

bro that is NOT a few

[@draconicartist2530]

Hey, thanks so much for your analysis. I really enjoyed watching the video a second time and following along with your notes! 💙💙💙

[@sunset_puzzle]

Wonderful analysis my friend, this was very insightful.

[@Alik769]

5:52 the fact that TSC still trying to help Blue even after he hit him in the face is show what real friends looks like

[@sparkzplayz9246]

Based eye of xeroc

[@Dark-Niks]

That’s what all friends should strive to be. They should see when someone is struggling and offer the help before it’s too late. To say their friends is almost an understatement. BFFs or family would be accurate.

[@infernoya512]

these stickmen love throwing hands literally whenever they are slightly inconvenient to eachother, he probably used to it

[@Gabriel-s4s4q]

He missed tho tcs has a hollow head

[@mayfishe]

what, its an animation. blue isn't real, don't punch your friend and expect them to still be your friend lol

[@mzbeabout]

Thanks for the honesty in this video. My son recognized the channel name before I did. He's a fan. We watched it together. He's in middle school. I found this a moment to explain to him that addiction isn't just about drugs or alcohol. People can become addicted to technology as well. This video seemed to connect with him. Thank you from a grateful mother.

[@Jazzmasterer]

9:44 This section so perfectly encapsulates how your mind switches tactics to get you to fall back into your addiction, and commenting on the false confidence you get after abstaining for a good while. You let your guard down, and the addiction just gracefully comes back into your life, first as very subtle and seemingly harmless thoughts, then full on relapses. I'm glad you showed this side of abstinence, because I feel this is the part where many people will mess up.

[@thomasjames6811]

500th like

[@nicool350tm3]

I admire just how short the part of Blue getting addicted was, versus how long the "rehab" part was. Incredibly realistic. It's so easy to get in and such a pain to get out, and this was superbly portrayed between relapses and urges. Absolute bravo.

[@tylerking9507]

One thing I really appreciate is how the solution isn't just blue "will powering" his way out. He only starts getting better when he is with his friend, and the setbacks he faces makes him feel guilty. He only truly recovered when he stopped suppressing the thoughts, but rather accept that they're there and focusing on the now. This is a very different direction from most of Alan's animations, and I'm all here for it.

[@DLxxx]

​@@Leucaria​ Well said. The thing with will power is that it can eventually be drained if relied on too much. We need to be able to lean on eachother to help regulate ourselves, and build an environment where we have the space to change. Otherwise, we risk falling back into the old habits we're trying to escape from. A habit/addiction doesn't take mental energy. But forcing yourself to fight one does. So don't do it alone 💚

[@turtleboy_t]

This is genuinely such a good example of how this kind of problem works, how it stays with you, but also how you can beat it. It’s not easy, but it is worth it. I hope that whoever needs it, finds this video. Props to Alan for making such a good/hopeful vid.

[@RunArtFun]

I love how the addiction is portrayed as a button. Not anything directly harmful or deceptive. Just a button. This just illustrates the whole thought process of addiction in a way that I find creative. Blue doesn't know what the button does. He even hestitates if that button might do him good or bad. But out of curiosity Blue goes ahead and pushes the button. The effects of pushing the button made Blue enjoy it, but it doesn't last forever. And there are the same buttons scattered around everywhere. Easy to grasp, but hard to keep its effects for long. And Blue keeps searching for more buttons, desperate for more. The metaphorical explanation of addiction being a push of a literal button is both intriguing and outstanding. From hestitation to curiosity to desperation. Love to see it. And the detox process is holy accurate. Employed a realistic visual of overcoming addiction.

[@MargaretMargie782]

Wow your writing style 👌

[@polish_citizen]

this, has geniuenly made me cry. my grandpa was addicted to cigarettes for years, from highschool to last month, until i lost him. the way blue pressed each buttons first slowly.. then with pure eagerness, all reminded me of my grandpa. all it took for blue to get addicted, was more dose, more buttons. until he, lost control. this animation, has truly represented the meaning, the TRUE meaning of addiction. hats off alan, and his team.

[@max3eey]

That's why zyns are great

[@riochannel3661]

My grandpa also has a same story as yours!

[@cupandhugYT]

wait why does it say 1 reply when there's 2

[@The_official_Ice]

​@@cupandhugYTWhy does it say three replied when there's two

[@TheOneVinízin]

sorry

[@systemreb00ted]

"No, this episode is not about nether wart." lol, Alan knows his audience too well.

[@Violetparrot780]

yes, yes he does.

[@DaFishnic]

If it’s not about netherwart, what could it be?Could it be another addiction blue is/would be facing? I think blue could be facing something like what green faced (eg: pressure from people/depression)

[@CappyCappyCapCap]

​@DaFishnic idk buttons?

[@DaFishnic]

@ I think the buttons is what blue desperately wants.We can see TSC/Orange trying to stop him from pressing it. Looks like blue loose parts of himself if he does not press the button.

[@Rae_piest]

GAMBLINGGG

[@CeciliaMaia-sx5et]

I think Alan could take advantage of this type of video and create a new series. Just like Animation vs Education. It could be called Animation vs Pain or vs Problems or vs Yourself. It would be something very interesting and educational to see

[@khateebedia]

0:00 Initiation: First-time substance use, often due to curiosity or peer pressure. 0:33 Experimentation: Occasional use in various contexts, assessing effects and social acceptance. 1:09 Regular Use: Consistent use, potentially developing routines around substance consumption. 1:29 Risky Use: Continued use despite negative consequences, such as health issues or strained relationships. 2:07 Dependence: Physical and psychological reliance on the substance, experiencing withdrawal symptoms without it. 2:29 Substance Use Disorder (Addiction): Compulsive use with significant life disruptions and loss of control. 4:44 Precontemplation: Not yet acknowledging a problem; no intention to change. 5:05 Contemplation: Recognizing the problem; considering change but undecided. 6:30 Preparation: Intending to take action soon; planning steps toward change. 6:59 Action: Actively modifying behavior and environment to overcome addiction. 7:07 Maintenance: Sustaining new behaviors; working to prevent relapse. 7:17 Relapse (unofficial stage): Returning to old behaviors; often part of the recovery process.

[@Southwesternscout]

why did u do this? 😭

[@khateebedia]

@Southwesternscout For remorse 💀

[@iluvwifid7050]

@@khateebedia this is really cool!!! Thank you!

[@killsaymendoza]

No solo a las sustancias se es adicto.

[@zQra54]

​@@killsaymendozaно тут аналогия именно к ним

[@AWiseEgg]

I’ve come to notice how addictive Blue’s personality truly is. While he was screwing around with netherwart as a big gag, his netherwart addiction was acting as a huge hint to his addictive personality as a whole. He can be patient, but he grows more impatient the more he’s addicted to it.

[@vyachachsel]

Can we also face the fact that the entire recent AvM arc happened just because of Blue's addiction to Nether wart?

[@spideytroblox]

​@@vyachachselyou aren't lying, but I think some of it still would've happened if he didn't build a portal to find the nether wart. (Or maybe it wouldn't have happened idk)

[@NokotanDeergod123]

​@@vyachachselfr

[@Nomasunpibeboludo]

​@@vyachachsel"recent"

[@LMJ_2009]

​@@vyachachsel yes

[@positivityinc]

i love this, the beauty of the messaging how drugs can you make you feel so weightless, so free, so good, but overtime you grow a tolerance, so you search for something new, but you grow tolerant to that aswell. that sometimes a friend can lift you up, and help you through your problems, and how the drugs can soon seem like they have a hold, and that you can't fight bad thoughts, that you have to let them pass. this is so good, thank you alan

[@FluffyCurry]

It's very interesting to see the way Alan deals with this subject.

[@lizwood1068]

i do agree, like how orange (second coming) helps blue to stop touching god buttons. (lol, god buttons)

[@nahodnejtypek6502]

@@lizwood1068 bruh

[@HyperAsh309-y3w]

I thought he was smoking weed

[@KomiCantCommunicateS3when]

@@positivityinc 37inutes and less than 232 million views, bro fell off (joke)

[@livewithmoney7]

This speaks to the soul. I escaped addiction and transformed through pure discipline and self-belief. To anyone still stuck, freedom is real, and it's worth the fight.

[@ktheboss5879]

2:43 I like how you can hear the piano in the background, like it’s trying to sound peaceful but that one note makes it sound off putting, like the addiction is starting to set in

[@hexagonal228]

Fr

[@Starryeyyed67]

Yep. ..

[@mola3371]

Also around 1:57 you can hear music immediately becoming sadder when the button effect is gone

[@OliverPaulsen-t5r]

All throughout the video, the piano changes with what is happening to blue and what he is feeling. At the start, it is a gentle and happy tune, indicating that it is a little bit of fun. But as the video goes on, the piano shifts into a light minor key, telling you that something is off before the video tells you this. Once Blue is fully consumed by the thought of the buttons, the music turns somber, and it take TSC's intervention for the music to change remotely. It begins to morph back into a major key, but when Blue's thoughts start drifting back to the addiction, it becomes minor again. It takes TSC intervening another time to help Blue and turn the music around. At the end, when Blue removes the blindfold, the music is a soft major. Definitely a happier note, but it represents room for improvement. It shows that Blue is not completely fine yet, and may need a little help again, but he is on the right track. This video is a perfect representation of addction. Everything has a meaning, from the music to the color to the poly count and detail to the buttons themselves. Everything in this video has a meaning, and there are so many hidden meanings that it is hard to NOT notice at least one.

[@gasic7129]

Real, Alan Becker's video are really detailed. Quality over Quantity mate.

[@hollowemptyeyes9910]

I think it’s so heartbreakingly real how TSC is able to walk perfectly okay in the ‘grey’ reality, while Blue is struggling to even crawl. He’s so used to the buttons moving him that he forgets how to move on his own.

[@LooneyPerson_AvA]

I think it's a great representation of how addiction affects one's body and both physical and mental health

[@DiddysWorldYT]

​@@LooneyPerson_AvAYea.

[@imadegenerate9867]

@hollowemptyeyes9910 it's not that deep

[@febrizz1759]

That actually is crazy symbolic to how dependency from something can destroy your own identity and capabilities.

[@nugget9079]

@@imadegenerate9867 it is?

[@alanmofticomposer]

I’m struggling with an addiction right now, and at times it feels like it’s all pointless and not worth carrying on. This made me tear up. Amazing work, thank you.

[@n6ghk]

I started crying really hard. I relate to Blue very very much recently. I feel like I’ll never get better. I don’t have a TSC in my life. I don’t think I’d listen to them anyway. I feel like I live for my addictions, everything feels incomplete without them. I feel like this came at the right time. I loved your animations since I was an autistic kid struggling in my crappy household, you inspired me to draw & animate & make comics & just seeing something of yours that touches my soul like this again is indescribable. You guys have always made me feel awe, brought me happiness & inspiration. Your recent Animation Vs series always makes me happy I’m alive to see another amazing work of art. Thank you guys so much. This isn’t day 1 for me but I feel more hope for my future. I feel like something really dear to me wants me to get better now. Good luck on your recovery, Blue; I know you’re a stickman but I’m so proud of you ♥️

[@veronicawexel1291]

Just don't forget that you have the rest of time to work on yourself. It's never to early to start and it's never too late to try again if you don't succeed at first. Whenever you decide to start your journey forward, good luck.

[@ADOGNAMEDCUPCAKE]

Jesus loves you btw❤

[@dangerrangerlstc]

@n6ghk part of getting help, is admitting you need it. That means both to yourself and to others. Others may not be aware of the issue. The other problem is that other people don't know how to help others battle addiction. The good thing is that this animation helps both sides. The support group needs to know that sometimes help may be repetitive and continual, but realize that the person you're helping may still be influenced by whatever addiction they're battling. Hopefully you can find the support group you need.

[@aprettyfunnyperson4516]

@@n6ghk As a guy who had an addiction most of his life, I can promise you that you do get strong enough to more easily resist it with time. For me, it was partially prayer that helped. I don’t know if you believe in it, but for me, praying had more than just one purpose. Obviously, I needed help from Him who I prayed to, but it had another purpose. When I did this when I was tempted most to return, it made my mind and my body gradually more alarmed by temptation and more ready to defend against it. When we feel the pull of our addictions, our minds and bodies can succumb pretty quickly. So to have this was massive. The second part is just as important and can apply even for the non religious. Take things one day at a time. Don’t think about tomorrow. Resist for today, and let tomorrow worry about itself. You know how when people go on runs, they can go further than normal by making smaller goals? “I’ll just run to that sign. Wait, I can keep going. I’ll just run to that next sign then. Wait, I can keep going.” Something like that. Dividing the problem and making it seem smaller can make it vastly easier to deal with. It’s easier to climb a stair than a mountain, but climb enough stairs and you may find yourself pretty far up that mountain.

[@AdityaRajChaudhary-df9le]

@@n6ghk yeah we love ourselves

[@kaiandtheskitty]

One thing I love about this interpretation of addiction is that the thing Blue is addicted to isn't some real substance, but buttons which makes you feel "magical" instead. The buttons can be interpreted for anything like drugs, but also other things like gambling, alcohol & etc. Addiction can be applied to ANYTHING & those things will harm you without the support you need. Great as hell video as usual!

[@MDVNJKHAN]

Some people rather fight their addictions alone if we told anyone our reputation would be ruined and everyone we care about would look at us differently

[@Starfloofle]

@MDVNJKHAN That's why you should seek help anonymously. That's why such institutions exist. You aren't alone no matter how much you try to convince yourself you are.

[@Nativah._.]

​@Starfloofle I'd like to ask; how would you know? Do you know the commenter youve replied to in real life?

[@M3LANYISH3R3]

⁠@Nativah._. they’re trying to help them out. It doesn’t matter if they know them irl or not?

[@Nativah._.]

@M3LANYISH3R3 the amount of places with good addiction treatment centres that don't rat you out to authorities or your community is low, and acting like they're everywhere and saying it's how they'll be saved is 1: a lie & 2: a good way to accidentally screw someone over, good intent or not.

[@TailsMiles249]

This was difficult for me to get through because I personally struggled with addiction myself. I was crying for more than half of the video. I was an alcoholic a few years ago and relied on it to just to go to sleep. When I couldn't get drunk, I would drink more, just like how the first button Blue was pressing lasted less and less so he had to keep pressing the button more often until it failed him. I remember going through withdrawals every day because I didn't have vodka running through me. You tell yourself you can quit any time but there are times when another person has to step in and help out. I love the visual of this entire video and how it properly illustrates what it truly is to be an addict. Thank you so much for bringing this to light.

[@davydee9488]

This year will be my 7th year away from fentynal and other painkillers. I just saw this and cried my eyes out. You nailed it. I'm very thankful you made this. If you are the person seeing this video and thinking about getting clean,you can. And the only way out of this for your loved ones is yourself. You aren't a piece of sh*t You are not worthless. What separates you and I is nothing. Don't you ever give up. Not ever.

[@Dra_gon54]

Tung tung tung tung tung sahur

[@CTM-kōgekisha]

Keep going, 7 years becomes 8! I hope you can beat your addiction ❤

[@salijahplayz4192]

What I love about this is the destructiveness of the buttons, at first he flies and it just has a lower effect but over time he starts genuinely falling, harming his friendships and relapses, it goes to show how dangerous addiction is

[@elwebadasaesthetic1030]

También el hecho de que no le es posible caminar sin la gravedad cero que le dan los botones y cuando lo hace se cae en un instante hasta que Orange lo ayuda a levantarse

[@JesusPlsSaveMe]

​@@elwebadasaesthetic1030 To everyone in this chat, I just want to let you know that *Jesus loves you* and he can *save you from sin,* sadness and sickness.

[@Officialfanatkuroshpi]

​@@JesusPlsSaveMeможет хватит сюда это постоянно писать, ну любит и любит, причем тут это. Если ты страдаешь, то никакая любовь тебе с другого конца мира не поможет

[@dreams_Lifex]

I feel sad but happy watching this animation. I am a former addict and my father was an addict too. It's sad to know that my addiction started when I was only 12 years old, now I'm 15 and I've been clean and sober for 4 months, I'm not going to lie, I feel horrible sometimes, but feeling free and not feeling dirty is a huge relief, even though it hurts not having to feel the "satisfaction" that the addiction brought me. I'm sorry for venting here, but this video is really good for people who are still stuck in their addictions, I'm holding back tears right now. I never had anyone to help me overcome, only myself, unlike Blue, who had his friend. Many people like me, who didn't have anyone, maybe couldn't get over their addiction, and I really hope they watch this video and see that maybe they're not as alone as they thought. Thank you so much for the content, Alan. Edit: I'VE BEEN SOBER FOR 5 MONTHS NOW!!!!

[@Walliosis]

sober for 4 months? hell yeah man, really hope you don't go back to whatever you were doing, great job bro, keep it up

[@AarushiKaushal-n8g]

Just because you may not have people around you doesn’t mean there aren’t people rooting for you! 4 months is HUGE and genuinely takes so much guts and resilience and i am so proud of you :)

[@marinao4412]

heya, I'm in my 20s now and have been in recovery for coming on eight years, but I'd like to say that that I was in a really similar situation at a really similar age. it's a super tough place to be, I don't want to undermine that at all, but it's completely possible to persevere, heal, and get to a better place with people who really have your back. I hope you find some space or friends who can provide that kind of support for you soon, but know that doing this much alone is an insanely huge feat, you deserve to feel proud of yourself for accomplishing that, and you are not dirty whether or not you're sober.

[@dreams_Lifex]

@@Walliosis Thank you very much for your support man! I'm very happy!!

[@dreams_Lifex]

@@AarushiKaushal-n8g Omg thank you so much, I'm holding back tears, thank you for the support! :)) ♥

[@watermelonwarrior239]

This was just stunning. The realistic depiction of addiction really stood out to me, and the way Blue fought it off was amazing. hats off to the Alan Becker team once again.

[@lizwood1068]

AGREED!!1!

[@Purplegames5278YT]

Fr

[@OPERATION-9]

Real

[@AngryBirb0274]

Whatever, it's just an another piece of junk video. Nobody cares that much anyway

[@jessepulkkinen3902]

@@AngryBirb0274 is it though?

[@joshuaraver8744]

This is beyond moving and a wonderful animation of the struggle. I'm 40 days sober, i'm done chasing the high, but the constant nagging from my thoughts can feel inescapable at times.

[@LukeBHindyou]

The subtle detail of the music changing to a lower pitch/minor key from a higher pitch/major key whenever the device ran out in the first segment was amazing. I love that kind of detail and effort that you put into this.

[@josephmcphee9143]

The music hit me the same way. As if the notes went sour when the high wore off

[@Yecze]

Yeah I noticed that too

[@Terrifyger]

I love how this animation didn't use things that cause real-life addictions, like cigarettes or alcohol or weed or anything like that - it was just pressing buttons to gain weightlessness - but the effects of it still 100% felt like those IRL addiction-causing things. It was like a PG way of portraying someone "getting high", except instead of it being done via drugs, Blue literally and physically got higher. In the air. That's incredibly creative. Blue kept using the buttons, and the periods of time that they worked got shorter and shorter, until they no longer gave him a "high", so to speak. So he had to get more and more of them, and the constant weightlessness they gave him made it feel like he could barely move when their effects wore off. The thought bubbles he had sometimes showed that he was aware the button-pressing wasn't good for him, but he just couldn't stop himself. And having TSC help Blue to combat the addiction was a great message that friends will be willing to help you beat your own addiction, and that you don't have to be alone with the struggle. Even if it'll be hard and you'll want to fight back, they know that it's for your own good and they'll keep helping you. I also really loved the detail of how the background got darker and less and less detailed the further Blue fell into the addiction, representing the damage it's doing to him. And once he finally beat it, the background not only got even more detailed than it was in the beginning, but it also became brighter and gained some colors, too. The music was great as well, sounding really pleasant and calm while he was under the influence of the weightlessness, but I _swear_ I could detect a more somber and harrowing tone during those points as well; it was incredibly subtle, almost unnoticeable, but I _swear_ it's there. That's another brilliant touch to this already brilliant animation. You did such a good job of portraying addiction without showing any consumable substances, and I love it for that. Sometimes the hardest fights we have to face aren't the ones that involve punching and kicking. Well done with this, seriously. 👏🙂 EDIT: Fixed a typo.

[@TidalWave41]

Mucho texto knlm

[@zanehere2044]

I'll have you know button pressing is a very real addiction that lots of people, including myself, have. I just love to press peoples buttons, I can't get enough of it.

[@tomikun8057]

osu players:

[@Terrifyger]

@@zanehere2044 Well, I was referring to physical button pressing, but yeah, what you said can be pretty addicting too. ^^;

[@ΝΑΡΗΤΑ]

Thanks.

[@mopeioanimations8318]

This MUST be shown in schools. Your work is amazing and even inspired to do meditation too! - you see meditaiton can also be used for anxiety and stress. Thank you. 💙🧡

[@Shirou230]

All school across the globe because this does not need translation

[@EtherealCrafter]

Is that 1,000 dollars?

[@kramsdell0]

​@@EtherealCrafter no cause its blue, its a different currency so probably less than a dollar edit: 1.08 dollars

[@mahmuoddarvishkhadem5425]

Yes

[@EpicSussyAmogusImposter]

Bro donated something that converts to 1.08 U.S. dollars and thought they could fool everyone. Why go through the trouble just for fake clout? Dishonest...

[@ArcVeteran]

8:15 I love how it shows how orange helped brake him from his addiction that is holding him captive. This animation really helped me and brought me to tears,how it say that it may take time, but with the help of the people closes to you, it will slowly fade and bring you back to the light. Thank you

[@ZippityZab]

I don't think many people here understand just how important this video is. A good chunk of the viewers of this channel are likely young children who watch the cute little animations of stick figures doing battle. Telling more mature stories like with King Orange and Victim already is a huge benefit for them, but telling such an adult and genuinely important message as the effects of addiction can genuinely do wonders. Kids who may not fully grasp the concept and just think "adults say drugs are bad!" Can understand the kind of damage addiction really does on a level that effects not just them but the people they care around them. I know it's not essential for every story someone tells to have a deep or educational message like this, but this may help so many people that don't even realize it.

[@csunisbestfrfr]

as a child who likes watching animations of stick figures, idk how the animators on this channel can even incorporate such deep emotions into this video, and yeah this can help others realize how much harm addictions actually cause.

[@GeorgeEgroed-e7f]

Also many viewers were children. Who grew up with passage of time. And this channel grew up too. Interesting.

[@MTZAnimates-i48]

Couldn't agree more with this comment, this channel feels like the fine line between maturity and fun little stickman videos and it's a good way to give young people a lesson & without it necessarily *feeling* like a lesson or a ten-minute lecture.

[@wahwahwhy]

a lot of those children (including me and others) grew up, and there may be some younger kids who dont understand as much, but, for all i know, a lot of us understand and know how amazing this video is

[@victorbrachojr1114]

My younger brother saw the animation and he understood it (he's 10). The message is **really** clear.

[@notHARETH]

I like how the world being gray depicts that life isn't all rainbows and colorful; as it's not supposed to be. Yet, it's still beautiful.

[@rasyonelsiz1453]

But it is still humans who do this. It is against human nature to live among concrete buildings! but the system requires it... I apologize for my English😓

[@CertifiedZoony]

@@rasyonelsiz1453 its not that life is literally grey or colourless, the colouring is a metaphor for how reality isnt exactly one big dopamine rush even when u see it for it really is but its still buetiful and worth living even with its ups and downs

[@carlodave9]

And that button does keep flickering, intermittently, but sometimes brightly. Not THE End. An End.

[@laurenaspreyart]

What I like about it being grey is because of pathetic fallacy: The environment or at least how he perceived it at the start was a reflection of his mental state. The reason the button looked appealing in the first place was because for one thing he was by himself, so possibly lonely, and for another thing his world view was grey (which could maybe symbolise pessimism or trauma or something else). At the end he sees the world for what it really is or at least with a more hopeful perspective, which is where we see the rainbow tints and waterfalls. If he had known the world could be this way with help from loved ones or kind strangers, he probably wouldn’t be drawn to the buttons to begin with. They say the opposite of addiction isn’t sobriety but connection.

[@ZLodey2003]

it kinda isn't beautiful

[@S1L3NTIGamer]

my son showed this to my wife, and she showed it to me. This is genuinely beautiful. I can tell that so much time and effort went into this animation. you have a real talent for story telling and it really feels as though you have a very personal experience with this subject matter. I was brought to tears watching this yesterday and I just had to comment on it today. Keep up the great work.

[@doe_cie4203]

He doesn't need a personal experience B)

[@S1L3NTIGamer]

@ you are absolutely right. That’s why I said it felt like it not that he definitely has had one.

[@choknater]

first time stick figures have brought me to tears. 35, behavioral (non-substance) addict here. i can only imagine the struggle is so much different for actual substance users. gratefully sober. this journey is relatable: i could NOT have gotten sobriety without the help of others. as well as a deep dive into my own spirit. and yes, the memories never stop trying to come back to get me. with time and practice, along with humility and understanding one’s need for support, sobriety is possible. bless you Alan.

[@davidarellano6869]

I love how you portrayed the amnesia and impulsive actions. Blue thinking about another dose and finding himself already grabbing the button. You made me cry over a stickman and I think thats art

[@squasherdown]

I think you cry way too easily and that's art

[@GrippyIsTrans]

@@squasherdown People can be sensitive, some may have already experienced an addiction which they relate a lot to this video. If you didn’t know, not crying isn’t really healthy for you, crying lets you release so much stress and it saddens me that you see it as weakness.

[@CyberGrapeUK]

@@squasherdown The way I see it, when you cry at art, that means it's really REALLY good art

[@Bisan624]

May i ask what dose amnesia mean?

[@GrippyIsTrans]

@@Bisan624 Blue only thought of going to the button, his body went there without him remembering to do so.

[@ShadowMeister42]

There is no way you put this video out when im currently battling a 2 year meth addiction and have been sober for a month thanks to friends helping me not relapse a few days ago This video encapsulates every experience I've had so far while im trying to stay sober. Excellent animation Alan and thank you. I will share this video to my friends to see their reaction. Edit: I don't want to be that guy but thank you guys for all the support. It means I'm making changes for the better so thank you

[@pijahpants9052]

Congratulations on one month! You got this

[@Santiago-i8s2t]

stay strong

[@DripCheems]

Walter white effects

[@宫世哲]

You're doing amazing.Keep it up!

[@CapableClient]

I've had my own small battle with percocet, although mine was very minor in comparison, I do know that feeling. Keep on going friend, you're fighting a good fight and doing it well ❤

[@palecandy]

10:53 i LOVE this detail!! when blue clicked the buttons, everything was a saturated, unrealistic, and concentrated bright color. there was no detail to be taken in because you could only focus on all these new exciting sensations in your body; though as his tolerance grew, they became more muted and like it was more of a desperate clinging onto what he used to experience- but after those exercises with orange, he sees the world in a whole new light- while it's still a monotone depressing landscape, there are shimmers of light that reflect off it and make it look so much more beautiful. the same way the world can't be perfect (all colorful and saturated, like with the buttons) but it can have a lot of good things if you focus on them this is a really well made video. i genuinely feel inspired to get better habits and i'm not even addicted to anything (except the internet i guess... i might as well work on that)

[@JohnAllogop]

This is very well made. Having suffered from addictions myself, to build on 10:15 A way I found to clear my mind was to respond to any craving with the thought "My will is stronger than my desire." especially during detox this helped think about something else, count how many trees or cars you can see, look at the clouds and try and see something. distract yourself with anything and let your mind latch onto that instead. thank you for making this video

[@MapleshadeDefender]

Honestly, i dont know what to say. I love the more dark apporoach with this video, how you all portrayed how the stimuli grows duller to a point of no return without outer influences, how meditating means not pushing the thoughts away, not engaging with them, just acknowliging them, how the mental image of the chains was portyaed, just ... Everything (And also the 3D parts OH MY GOD THEY ARE GORGEUS THIS IS AMAZING

[@Calkythestegosaurus]

This gave me chills. It's amazing how well this portrays addiction without the showing of a normal or expected addiction, like drugs, or even an addiction most of us are guilty of, our phones. I love how supportive Orange was to Blue, despite blue being abusive. we should all use this as a note to love all, and help others in need no matter what. thank you Alan Becker, for giving us all such a wholesome message

[@SebastianKenseiAnderssonOyaizu]

Thanks Alan Becker

[@Nitram4392]

But it also showed, that the addiced person needs to want help. Like how blue decided to change and ask orange for help after orange helped him to be "sober" for the first time at 6:26, and how they came back remorseful after lashing out at 8:02.

[@BenniWithABiscuit]

This animation is just a bunch of metaphors, and I think it was done extremely well. The buttons being all kinds of different addictions, and the power of flight representing the calm sensation that people usually get after smoking something. Blue eventually develops resistance, causing the effects to grow less and less, so he has to use more and more buttons to keep it going. This obviously doesn't have a good effect on either his physical or mental health, as he eventually collapses onto the ground. TSC tries to help him, and he is extremely defensive at first, and goes through withdrawals. TSC is finally able to sit him down for long enough and gets him to do mindfulness meditation/breathing, with all of the different blues representing how our mind will often wander, and him fighting back is us pulling ourselves back. It takes a while for Blue to improve, as it should, but he's able to focus on solely his breathing without his thoughts of his past addiction trying to pull him back. When he takes the blindfold off, the world is more detailed and pretty than it was before, possibly showing how he felt worse before the addiction in the first place (possibly using it as some sort of coping mechanism) and now feels so much better after. He's grateful that he got the help he needed. Truly incredible.

[@ProfilePicture-t3d]

I ain’t reading that sry

[@DemsW]

THE BUTTONS ARE A METAPHOR ? WHAT !??

[@sykcing6155]

@@DemsWYes the buttons represent all kinds of addictions and the more he uses them the more he realizes he’s building a tolerance which then leads to him feening for more

[@d4red3v1l8]

So what is he addicted to? Is it that minecraft food or is it other things?

[@sykcing6155]

@ it isn’t necessarily related to his regular content it’s more based on real life events. Addictions can come from all different kinds of things for example Smoking, Vaping, Drinking, 🟠⚫️ addiction (PH), and other things that can overall kill you on the inside and zap you of your happiness unironically trying to get happiness from it. Take it from me addictions really can take a toll on you and you won’t even realize you’re addicted until you try pulling away from said addiction.

[@Wright-FrancisMocha]

How the world slowly gets sharper and more detailed when TSC hugs Blue is a pretty cool way of showing how leaving an addiction is a process that not everyone can do on their own. Nice work man.

[@notme3603]

What I like most about Alan is that he’s respectful He either god forbid has experience with this stuff or has done extensive research on it because it’s earily accurate in a lot of details that I don’t see people talking about And most of all the “healing process” He shows just how gruesome difficult, long and painful it is, no “magic ending” where everything is suddenly fine, and I really appreciate that

[@VerySourTaste]

And I REALLY like the idea that paying no attention to the negative thoughts is more effective than wasting your effort fighting them. Not to say that being in denial about thoughts works. It’s more like you should let the thought pass.

[@notme3603]

@@VerySourTaste that’s one of the most accurate parts And even then he sometimes skips a little and needs TSC to kind of “snap” him back

[@Mr.Normal]

Actually I think this video is just one big hommage to the Nuggets short animated film from Filmbilder & Friends. The two videos are actually really close to one another.

[@silentgaming3948]

This had no business being so well detailed as it was, from the subtle shift in, music tone, to the body language of every so subtly getting more tired after each use, the landscape changing shape and becoming more jagged, to even each of the "colors" lasting differing amounts of time. Absolute Perfection.

[@notpiboiindahouse8926]

I love that it's a button, A visual to the assumed harmless act, and not pointing out any addiction in particular, because anything that gives joy, no matter how harmless, can give you enough of a "high" moment to become addictive, then producing have a need to recover from it.

[@MargaretMargie782]

Recovery is not always guaranteed unfortunately 😢

[@elmaxlife]

@@MargaretMargie782 there is always hope as long as you are here

[@MargaretMargie782]

@elmaxlife ☺️thank youuu

[@rickwohlfiel7649]

Thanks! Great for sharing

[@Axolex53]

8:50 this section is subtle, like, if you think fighting these thoughts can help you, it only makes them bigger, because you are giving these thoughts power or attention, so these will come back stronger than before, I really like how meditation works to keep focus on stay calm I really enjoy this animation, is one of my favourites

[@DLxxx]

I love how each time Blue hits the thoughts away, they get ever so slightly bigger. Such an awesome detail!

[@ashertonlynn]

As someone who is currently struggling to quit, this animation really hit home. Thank you for making this. It really helps to see that recovery isn't just a straight line, as some may say. Keep up the good work

[@dhruvpatwardhan4394]

Hey man, I believe that you can quit! I know that it's hard, even though I never used, I knew a lot of friends who did, and I can see how hard it is for them to stop using. You're doing great!

[@wottata]

You got this, I believe in you! I don't really have experience with this matter, but you have the faith from an internet stranger!!

[@justaguy.dontexpectmuch6194]

I absolutely love the fact that so much emotion can be conveyed with just simple thoughts and zero facial expressions with incredibly basic character designs. I'd love to see more videos that take on much deeper topics like influencer green and this video. 10/10

[@EthanAndersen-c7x]

Idk how he does it, Alan is just master at making emotion without any of the things that normally show it

[@shahahahahahahaha]

many people use addiction to distract and numb themselves from suffering, which in turn numbs their senses. once rid of these distractions the senses return. with enough practice the senses become heightened allowing one to see the world in a new light. this animation depicts this perfectly.

[@AlexerHandiman]

MATHS! PHYSICS! GEOMETRY! CODING! I WONDER WHATS NEX- oh... oh dang... On a real note, this was really informative! Keep up the great work!!

[@isavenewspapers8890]

yep

[@Starryeyyed67]

Me tooo

[@SebastianS-m5q]

Honestly kinda wondering if this is part of AvE or it's own thing. It kinda fits, but it also kinda doesn't, and not because its subject is darker, but more so because Addiction isn't even a school subject-the closest thing to that would be Health. Then again, there might be classes about it in medical school, but I wouldn't know since I'm not in medical school.

[@jtteope1178]

i’d label all of these things animation vs real life

[@SebastianS-m5q]

@jtteope1178 I guess you could do that, but isn't Animation vs Education this official name?

[@creamunicorncookie1408]

The depictions are terrifying to see. He's grabbing the buttons subconciously without realizing it. The more he uses it, the shorter the duration of bliss. The more he gets used to it, the less it has an effect and he has to use more. His reality becomes more difficult without it. He stops noticing his loved ones over his addiction, even becoming violent to the ones trying to help him. And only when he stops does everything around him return to normal and even then, he can't help himself and he relapses. And the process to beating the addiction is tough as it does all it can to bring you back but once you're free from it all, you see the world in a clearer, better state This is truly wonderful

[@MargaretMargie782]

This reflects with me too😅

[@Cheeseburglarer]

I like how they show the “neediness” towards the button as the more he flies in bliss, he is less productive and slower when not using it, which leads to more uses, and the more he uses it the more he gets used to the effects and constantly looks for something stronger, and the “universe” giving more and more can depict people in real life supplying him with more for money, using his addiction

[@bryanwithamask]

This video spoke to me deeply. The ending made me cry. I got out of my bed, dressed up, grabbed my rechargeable vape, and stepped out of my apartment to go to the garbage chute and throw it away. Wasted so much money on those things for years... Update 1: Its been about a week and I still havent tried buying a new one. Im not having any trouble so far. Every time the thought of buying a new one crosses my mind, I think back to this video and tell myself "Nah just dont bro" and immediately distract myself with something else like Games or KZbin. I will continue updating this post for the people that are either trying to quit as well, or are just curious about my progress. :) Update 2: It's been about 2 weeks now and i've been feeling anxious lately as if im missing something but that's just how it is when you're quitting an addiction. Still havent tried to go out and buy a new one, but the thought would cross my mind a few times. Update 3: Its been a month now and I still havent bought a new one and im confident i wont anytime soon. Thank you guys for the support. I probably wont update this comment anymore unless anything new happens. Have a nice day to you all.

[@q2we4r5t5]

So happy for you! Stay strong

[@RohanMondal-u3d]

Wish you well for the future.

[@fribiesdi]

I mean, amazing but... You think a vape is a hard addiction problem? You didn't have to throw it away, could have just kept vaping reducing the nicotine concentration until you reach 0mg. then suddenly and naturally the vape would be more and more aside. cold turkey is always a problem for addiction.

[@daniellane340]

Great Job! Any addiction is a addiction everyone is different what's easy for others is hard for you. I understand the challenge in breaking free from addictions and I encourage you to tell someone you trust and have them hold you accountable. We don't have to do this alone!

[@brarian]

LETS GO BRO! Thats the way

[@PopamBloonser]

Aw man! That brought tears to my eyes. So deep and so well thought out! I especially love the reveal at 10:50, it's beautifully represented. Thank you for making this, Alan! You're amazing in more ways than one!

[@Foruonlyx3]

This video truly changed me, I used to be obsessed with hurting myself over and over again. Everyday, i felt like getting up, hurting myself and before sleeping, doing the same thing. After watching this video from my favorite animator. I'm starting to recover :D i eat well, i'm 4 days clean and i threw away my blades.. still recovering but this video gave me hope for the better future which i always was scared of and dreamed off.. thank you Alan, really thank you.

[@DustOnOsu]

@@Foruonlyx3 hey man, you can do it. We believe in you.

[@DustOnOsu]

I hope that your recovery keeps going. And you must resist aight? Dont let it control you again

[@unfortunatelyKai]

i hope you can find a way to quit. im tryna stop bc i don’t want my friend to be scared about my safety anymore, n i hope that keeps me going

[@TrigZoe756]

There is power in the name of Jesus. You are wonderfully made... Everyone is fighting a battle, just lay it at the cross.

[@DustOnOsu]

@TrigZoe756 thanks for sharing the gospel but this video has nothing to do with jesus christ.

[@AlexSleepyLemur]

This animation was absolutely beautiful. As someone who suffers from addiction, this is pretty spot on. One of the worst feelings is the remorse after. You always have the willpower to fight back. It's hard to fight, but hell, even that's an understatement. Showing the constant struggle and showing things don't instantly work. The number of times I've gone back and wondered, "Why did I do that again?" You have to learn to both discipline and forgive yourself. I've gone down a spiral before... it doesn't help anyone. I'm currently in therapy, and I've relapsed a few times. But I haven't given up. I've shown myself how long I can go without it. I don't need it, I KNOW I don't need it. So I'll keep fighting.

[@NickyEstep]

"the number of times I've gone back and wondered, "Why did I do that again?" I was lucky enough to land a job on the other side of the country working for my cousin. This gave me multiple reasons to quit and a brighter new future away from sources that enabled me. but that qoute "why did i even do that" hits home hard. for me eventually i forgot what i was abusing even felt like. I think i was blessed with being able to leave my past behind and start anew... just the thought of that gave me immense mental strength. Now i know most people this isnt a tangible thing to do, but if that opportunity presents itself to you, I think taking that leap may be the most lucid path to break the chains of addiction. The remorse, shame and lost time are still something that i have not done well with and will prolly never let go... maybe thats a good thing ?

[@azurev2258]

I know you can make it through! You got this - keep going!

[@Smoked..Salmon.777]

Jesus is the answer. Give your life to him and he will break your chains. He did it for me.

[@ChickenKing-1]

FR FR

[@theislamicgambit4476]

🤲🏼🤲🏼🤲🏼

[@bladedoodle]

Poor blue, you never get the first time again so you end up chasing it. Good animation, man. I hope this helps people understand addiction better.

[@drooper5165]

I don't comment on videos. However, this needs to be said. This video gives me questions, answers and takes me through the entire recovery. This is nothing shy of a masterpiece of art.

[@revcreo]

As someone who's suffered from bad intrusive thoughts, I love that while the premise is about addiction, the way TSC helps Blue 'fix' his thoughts while meditating is also applicable to OCD and anxiety. The idea of not fighting against the thoughts but just accepting that they are there and letting yourself grow and flourish despite them is such an important insight and I'm glad Alan and his team depicted that so well.

[@jakubkolacek6813]

This is most important message in this for me. You cannot fight it. You have to accept it and grow from it. To move past it.

[@femboygaming64]

Agreed. When i saw Blue trying to fight them away I was just thinking "noo.. you gotta just let them pass,," and I'm so glad that Orange (and of course Alan) knows that

[@ahmadshalash4600]

Incredible animation and attention to detail in portraying the harsh landscape of the addict's world and recovery. Thanks Alan and Team for this amazing production.

[@rockie1238]

I love how these episodes are fleshing out SC’s relationships with his friends. We always saw a sorta bond between him and green, we saw his relationship develop with red when they were stranded together, and now we get to see him helping blue in this ep.

[@EricSwallwell-q5s]

What people don't realize is self-control is gone when your brain is so fried by an addiction. We get so lost in our shame of not being able to stop on our own, which just pushes us further down.

[@epaybe]

As a psychiatrist, this was one of the most beautiful, nuanced, and accurate depictions of what the feeling of substance use is like, that I have ever seen. I'm definitely showing this to my patients in the future! I loved how Blue does not even notice himself getting the new buttons at first or how he is constantly battling relapse despite knowing how bad it will be for him.

[@AAuthenticity9880]

I absolutely love everything about this animation. As someone whose father died from alcoholic abuse and addiction, this surely hit close to home. I wish there were more people like TSC when he was still around. It displayed the effects of addiction in an amazing way and how it’s an incredibly long process to recovery. I loved how, at the end, the world is still gray and not fully in color. Blue hasn’t recovered fully, but is moving towards the healing path. The small details are everything. Definitely one of your most heartwarming videos. Thanks Alan.

[@DiegoEsqueda-bd7pk]

This is honestly the most wholesome and realistic video that Alan has ever made. And bro, the landscape at the end, that looks like something I would see in Smash Ultimate.

[@AAuthenticity9880]

@ OMG I SEE THAT AT THE END TOO-

[@doriondouglas6176]

what I love about Alan Becker is the ability to tell such a complex story with no language, you could be from anywhere in the world, you could be deaf, and still understand the story, let alone told with stickmen! the talent is unbelievable. Alan always has been and always will be one of my biggest idols.

[@Dadarhhsv]

@@doriondouglas6176 Well if you're blind, just accept your fate, you wouldn't be able to watch these amazing animations.

[@carolinaXcowboy]

Recovering addict here. This perfectly conveys the struggle with addictive reliance, lack of self discipline and lack of self awareness. As well as the discovery of self awareness. Gained through self reflection. Granting one’s self, the self discipline needed to persevere. Accompanied by the solace found in the support from another. Well done. Very well done.

[@OfficialGl1tchy]

Even if this isn’t about the nether wart, I’m still happy, because that addiction is pretty iconic for him…

[@nahomisanchez3]

And aside from that addiction, it seems that he has it more under control since he finished AvM 30.

[@titanicminion]

⁠@@nahomisanchez3he still put it on the pizza on the chef episode unless the chef episode is AvM 30

[@ktheveg]

I think that ditching the nether wart is a good idea. It lets people share this with less context on the bigger series. But for those who DO have context and backstory on the series, they would be able to pull out details from previous series. Like here, Blue had a tendancy to havr nether wart all the time. In Coding, yellow already knows redstone so they're already technical-focused.

[@John_The_Eeveechu]

Oh finally Blue can finally get the help he needs over his Nether- oh wait. theres the description. its not about his nether wart addiction. ok then.

[@Unnatural_cat]

Did blue fall into drugs? 😭

[@springerengineering6697]

​@@Unnatural_cat netherwart is a gateway drug confirmed

[@HuyLe-hs9sq]

😢

[@ADeadChannel68549]

I think it's going to be about the addiction to devices.

[@aleksrull]

Let's go gambling! Ah dang it...

[@Mr_Mimestamp]

The ending of this video is really special. I was half-expecting the blindfold to come off and the world would be filled with color, but I like it a lot better this way. The world is still gray as it was at the beginning, but Blue can just see the beauty and the light in it now. It feels like the gray, dismal landscape at the beginning might represent how Blue was in a bad headspace, just like how addiction is easy to fall victim to when you’re already struggling. I like that the ending of this video isn’t that he was able to match that high he got from the buttons again. It’s that he’s found contentment in the world he already had.

[@andy-gamer]

Addiction is easy to fall *what* to

[@SN-of5tu]

2:14...that buzzing. it's such a small detail. but it's always there in the background. even when it doesn't hit like it used to, even when it _hurts_ to use, that faint hum remains. small, yet crushing detail man.

[@Spiral_Flames]

This is an excellent message in an animation. And for anyone struggling with addiction, remember that withdrawing from an addiction isn't making an "effort", but is actually a lack thereof; the _absence_ of doing anything. You may have been answering that phone call in your mind everytime it rang before, but now you sit and just let it ring. Eventually, the phone will realize you're not answering and will stop calling.

[@TheRoyalberry]

.Jesus saves✝️.

[@Sh0rtcakexii]

This is actually an amazing representation

[@notthedoxplease]

@@TheRoyalberry shut up, it's not that easy

[@theguywhoseinsideyourwalls9153]

@TheRoyalberry jesus doesn't do anything. It's yourself who does the saving. Religion is just a psychological crutch for people, and even then, its not the cure all answer, so if it works for you, that's great. But be aware that in the end, your always the one that's saves yourself.

[@KaisaDarkness]

​@theguywhoseinsideyourwalls9153 you said what I was thinking about ppl who try to force their opinions on others. good on you bro

[@nekocraftguy]

To me, this feels very symbolic. Most addicts tend think too much about what happens when they do something to get themselves addicted, or refuse help from friends. So seeing TSC helping Blue to concentrate and focus on breathing more than what the buttons can do is very touching, to see that giving a little bit of help can affect someone in a bigger way than we imagine.

[@user-vs1qk6mv7p]

It's not about "netherwart"😅 at least I don't think it is

[@nekocraftguy]

@user-vs1qk6mv7p being honest, I kinda knew that

[@MDVNJKHAN]

Some people are addicted to things that if they told anyone about it their reputation will be ruined and people would look at them differently so they believe it's better to fight their addictions alone

[@nekocraftguy]

@MDVNJKHAN without realizing they need help, which can be bad unless you don't have someone to talk about it

[@davidforlong]

I really like that the detail that you can’t push away these emotions and cravings. You have to sit with them and let accept that you are feeling it. You have to let these emotions go away on their own

[@LOLrpop]

And what I like even more is that the more you push them and give them attention, the bigger they get

[@Keahi_changd]

​@@davidforlong could you explain it more? I dont get what you mean by i have to "sit with them" and "accept" thag im "feeling" the urges. Im not being sarcastic or any type of sh*t like that, i just genuially want to really understand what you mean, please

[@TheStrategist04]

@Keahi_changd It's the idea that when you try to fight off the urges and intrusive thoughts by actively pushing them out your head or fighting them in your head, they can get worse because you just keep thinking about them and increasing negative emotions. What you should do instead is to just let them flow by and not think about them. Understand that they are simply just a thought and the the brain can think a lot of things so they are not you, you are what you choose to act like and speak. This technique works very well for people struggling with OCD and those who are fighting internal battles. very simple and effective solution.

[@NinjaPlayzX]

This was amazing, how the environment regained its beauty when he was losing the addiction and how his friend never gave up on him, kept on trying and in the end he was free of the addiction. It just shows how important and helpful it is to talk to and have someone there to support you

[@ShrekGKSPrivacy]

I love how Blue's thoughts are focused on while he breathes in and out. First he fights his desires, then he just swims through it and then he just simply ignores it.

[@jemmine]

I think reject isn’t correct I think he realizes he doesn’t need to focus on it

[@BoundedLead]

You don't 'reject them' it's just another way to say 'figh it' he just letting them in and eventually they all dissappear.

[@SarahAbramova]

My interpretation is that Blue was meditating, so their attention is on breathing, nothing else. Other thoughts still exist, but the focus is on the present moment.

[@Ahnock]

​@@jemmine as a recovering addict, this is definitely it. the more you focus on fighting it, the more the thoughts stick around. in learning to let them pass and wash over you, you stop having the thoughts altogether. fighting just prolongs the suffering.

[@ShrekGKSPrivacy]

@@jemmine Yeah that's true.

[@dbspastaboi]

I love how every time blue wants the buttons to work when they come down from the “high” point, the buttons never work again until blue finds something else. Very symbolic and awesome. Reminds me of inside out, but of a more mature topic

[@Justqzey]

I really appreciate and find it super important that you also make videos about more serious topics. Addiction is a disease that isn’t easy to overcome. I think it’s great that you create videos like these to discourage your viewers from even being tempted to try drugs or anything like that. Great video as always, Alan!

[@Tttrexttt]

OMG JUSTQZEY WHAT IM SUBSCRIBED HELP WHY NO REPLIES

[@manniville8273]

This was a powerful animation short. It hit something right in my heart. Something in my subconscious. Bc for some reason I was a but teary eyed at the end and I don't even know why ..at least not on the surface I do. At the same time, I understand the lesson here.. at least how it relates to my own experience.

[@Peteboi64932]

I like how you just didn't talk about it like some sort of taboo, but actually confronted it.

[@Hello_World_not_taken]

The fact that Alan had to point out that it isn’t about Nether Wart is both hilarious, and concerning

[@Ajcruzz]

yo reddit person

[@theredbluecube2]

​@@Ajcruzz Prepare thyself!

[@HFIAPY]

Is it about TikTok and subway surfers 😂

[@ironman_karl3584]

ooh

[@rawuraniumisyummy]

@@HFIAPY no. Its about serious addictions.

[@Radomenplays]

What stood out to me the most in this animation is how it portrays addiction with raw realism-none of that cliché "a friend swoops in, saves the addict, and everything is magically fine" nonsense. Instead, it dives deep into the struggle, showing Blue's relapses and the brutal cycle of addiction in a way that really drives home how destructive it is.

[@Sparkelfox]

Im a social worker and genuinely this is one of the most effective and least condescending pieces on addiction I've ever seen in my whole life. I would genuinely show this to people over a lot of other curated resources. They don't linger on suffering for shock value, they don't talk down to the person suffering, they don't portray recovery as something that just magically works once you try it, it's extremely rare to see the extremely realistic portrayal of a friend genuinely wanting to help, but being pushed away, even once the person is trying to get better, failing over and over again, because that's how it works. Telling people that they are likely going to fail, a lot, before they start making progress that feels meaningful is extremely difficult and discouraging, but the way they showed that process here was so motivaitonal without hyperbolizing the struggle.

[@Radomenplays]

@@Sparkelfox exactly..

[@stardra]

I’ve been clean for two years now. It’s not a perfect journey. This animation really resonated with me. At first it felt good but over time you need it to feel normal. It’s a terrible feeling not being able to run back to that but it’s even worse sitting with the guilt afterwards. And recovery. Oh the recovery. It was beautifully executed. Thoughts are as strong as you make them, and even deflecting them gives them power. Accept that you have those thoughts, soothe them, and move on. It’s a difficult journey but it’s possible. Even now I have those thoughts when I’m not doing well. It gets easier. It takes time. Thank you for this animation.

[@CyberLight-R5]

Dang….as a kid who used to deal with addiction a while back ago, this video really reminded me on how my loved ones got me out of it. This video is special to me.

[@Kyameron-y2c]

After watching this, I sat up on my bed and realized how bad addiction is. It really spoke to me personally because of a certain addiction I’ve been struggling with for years now and made me realize what I path I need to take now to overcome it.

[@TempestKrimps]

this channel lured me in with cool fights, then gave me an interest in math and science, and now it's trying to help me overcome what's been the single biggest demon that's been plaguing my life since before i can remember. thank you alan. i mean this in the most genuine way possible

[@sOmeone-n1y9c]

you got this :) don't give up

[@k.kittenqwx0]

There was not even one word spoken in this video. Yet,it told so much. I love it.