The BEST Episode of Courage The Cowardly Dog…

I know this isn't the most positive video, but it's one that was very important for me to make.
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[@ivanbluecool]

Best joke I never got as a kid is how the town is already sad because they raised the taxes. One of the reasons why old cartoons are better especially when you rewatch them and see exactly how much they got away with

[@DuskTillShawn]

Right?! lol it hits a lot different watching as an adult ESPECIALLY in this day and age 😆

[@ivanbluecool]

@@DuskTillShawn funny enough some shows are better now that I'm an adult and have more understanding of them.

[@emperortrevornorton3119]

Escapism using reality correctly in my opinion God this pink gumball like dog was one of my favorite cartoon dogs him and Scooby-Doo are tied for first

[@BrandonScott-mi5pz]

GREAT DUSKTILL SHAWN COURAGE THE CROWARDY DOG TACKLE DEPRESSION.

[@CorbinLeonard-rp4et]

Yeah that's true now these days no one can afford a house and the president is not doing nothing

[@bunnybuns3494]

I like that the cannonball didn't effect Eustace. Eustace reminded me so much of my dad, always angry. Nothing could make him happy. I think deep down they were both probably depressed and hurting inside.

[@infjmale91]

He was likely a narcissist. Same with mine, likely as a result of his Dad not showing him love (as a child) so doesn't know how to. It is sad as it's likely a generational thing we won't see moving forwards (due to the war etc & better therapy/mental awareness). My dad CANNOT compliment, say sorry, agree or do ANYTHING out of his way for his own kids. He will, my mom, ONLY because she rewards him with praise, sex or company. It is sad.

[@zackcleveland1348]

Knowing how his mom is. A whole ass can of worms

[@Padre_des_los_penitentes]

​@@zackcleveland1348his brother was also simply always better His mother calls him "stupid boy" He calls Courage "stupid dog" I wonder if he thinks once again it's not him recieving love, but someone else in the house Deep down, he's just a depressed lonely man

[@crystalgemgirl731]

Zalost also may have been right when he said that Eustice must be immune to emotion.

[@andre_601]

I feel like it would've been a fun concept if these canonballs just inverted your feelings... Like switch happyness and sadness around, resulting in Eustace suddenly being a kind man, loving and supporting Courage. Could've been a fun thing. Tho, given I haven't seen the show (sadly), there may have been some episode like that.

[@Lboogie0711]

I remember watching this as a kid, Dr. zalost probably just didn't his job interesting anymore, and he was looking for joy somewhere, when he keeps for a hug from his henchman, you can tell he actually means it. When the henchman turns into a baby, dr zalost finds raising the henchman brings him joy again

[@shylar763]

Yeah I always found that interesting, I think he just wanted the Rat to love and appreciate him again and he seems to when he got turned into a child

[@MelodyMute]

I'd like to think the rat's transformation into a baby is more a type of age regression or a desire to be nurtured that he might not have gotten as a kid, being symbolized as age regression. It would explain why him and the Dr. Zalost couldn't help each other. Zalost was too lost in himself to truly care for others, his hug requests being for himself rather than both of them. Once rat regressed and was trying to find someone to give the care he needed, Zalost still treated him horribly until the plums gave him the wake up call that rat was willing to care for him if he was given the same care in return. For rat, the plums weren't the cure, but the realization of why he felt depressed. Becoming a baby might've been a way for the show to visualize rat's way of seeking out happiness after that.

[@youtubeuniversity3638]

Telling that Eustance is immune.

[@kidprime6863]

I guess that being naturally unhappy has its perks

[@comettamer]

When your family treats you like his did, you're gonna be naturally unhappy, which just happens to be the defense for this exact crisis...

[@kagemaru397]

@@kidprime6863 Gives me Usopp vs Perona vibes. Even though this was 5 years before that.

[@Impalingthorn]

I feel for you Dusk. My grandmother got cancer 2 years ago and passed away this January. On hospice and everything. It was rough. She was the heart of our family and the ensuing months will be the hardest just in terms of coping with the void left from their missing presence. But it will get better. Hang in there and don't let it overcome you. I have suffered from chronic suicidal depression since I was 12. I'm 30 now. You geit your teeth, bear through it, and then you win. It will come back, sure, but every consecutive time it gets easier. Your mental stability and happiness is like any other muscle; it has to be tested and the more it endures the easier it all becomes. You just have to not give up.

[@DuskTillShawn]

I’m sorry for your loss, friend. It hurts so bad. Even when your loved one is on hospice and you’re aware that it’s coming, it doesn’t make that moment hurt any less. I feel you, my dad was the heart of my family in a sense as well… it left a big hole in a lot of our hearts. Depression is a hell of a hill to climb. But it’s one that we strive to overcome, even if it’s momentarily. Thanks for not giving up, friend. I’m really happy that you’re here 💚

[@Dogmaguy74]

Mine passed on April fools day…cruelest joke I’ve experienced since she was the only grand parent i had left… My depression feels inherited for i was born into an impoverished and broken family. I’ve considered suicide many times but something in me just won’t let me. I don’t know what it is but it fully realizes that i can do more good alive than dead.

[@aikou2886]

I can relate. Not because I lost someone I cared about rather because I'm autistic and grew up with a narcissist POS (at least until she got tired me and kicked me out just to impose a half assed attempt of reconnection after a decade or two, like narcissists do) so I've dealt with chronic depression since I was a child (might as well be 5 or so) and first attempted suicide by the time I was 8.

[@russellwboss]

​@@DuskTillShawnI lost my dad four years ago from prostate cancer. He lived with it for twenty years. I holed up and avoided everybody in the house he died in. Don't let yourself be alone. Grief will try to isolate you. You have to fight that. And try to remember what your father would have wanted for you. That's what I have to say, for what it's worth. I wish you the best.

[@BrandonScott-mi5pz]

EXCELLENT WORK. DUSKTILL SHAWN COURAGE THE CROWARDY DOG 🐶 DEPRESSION

[@chaosryans]

This episode was one of them that went hardest in my opinion. The entire atmosphere of the story is so depressing and was immediately memorable.

[@DuskTillShawn]

It’s such an iconic episode for sure! They really went all out for this one!

[@ghoulbuster1]

the music is what sells it, beautiful composition!

[@chaosryans]

@@ghoulbuster1 yeah, the sound design is A+ the way the music goes, and the canons sound oddly muffled. Like the colors and sounds of the world are smothered. The music in a lot of episodes is very memorable like Cats theme, or Ramsay's curse record.

[@silversugar2140]

I don't think Rat was needing his inner child healed. Rat always WAS a child. His "parent" the Doctor was making it Rat's responsibility to shoulder the emotional stability burden and it forced Rat to grow up sooner than he was ready for. Essentially it was making Rat the adult of the two and it's shockingly common. I understand that anger and depression Rat was suffering with by having to support someone who is also struggling while not having true the emotional intelligence to actively change things for the other. My mother was depressed my whole life. We had a co-dependent relationship. I resented feeling like it was my job to regulate her emotions while growing up. I won't get all into it but that's at least my interpretation of it.

[@ivanbluecool]

I loved this episode so much. It felt like a high stakes movie where courage had to do everything he could to save Muriel and the city. Even Eustace helped Plus the soundtrack was incredible

[@JoseLopez-gi9sf]

Here's the pizza you ordered... twenty bucks.

[@cyborghyena]

Rat also seems to represent when therapy doesn't work (which is not always the case, but it does happen) just counting his money and annoyed that he has to put on this mask that he's there for you, sometimes there just isn't a connection between you and them, and sometimes it shows in a really, really obvious way, which can be damaging if you're already in a dark enough place to recognize you need help but more so because it doesn't exactly encourage you to seek help after a particularly bad experience. That right there is why mental health professionals emphasize finding the RIGHT therapist for you. I think the other interpretations are spot on, just wanted to add one more from experience.

[@oooh19]

Exactly! It’s understandable that someone wouldn’t want to go to therapy if it’s basically forced.

[@D4RK3MOTIONZ]

My condolences for your loss Dusk My grandparents both passed away from cancer, my grandpa was first then one year later my grandma, she was tired of fighting without him but they’re together in heaven now 🙏🏼

[@RenegadeGamer89]

This is one of my favorite episodes for a specific reason. When I was 12 my parents divorced and I was very depressed. My mother had me take an antidepressant called Zoloft and the fact the Dr's name sounds a lot like it, everything about his character resonated with me. This episode came out at the perfect time for me.

[@Dogmaguy74]

Zoloft? I don’t recall that being an antidepressant…

[@rickydavis4325]

That;s more than a coincidence, Zalost's name is intended to reference zoloft, as zalost is the Serbian word for grief or sadness. Very apt that the happy plums (the stand-in for zoloft) alleviated his depression.

[@RenegadeGamer89]

@@Dogmaguy74 it was back in the early 2000s. The problem with it is it caused s*icial thoughts/tendencies and actions, paranoia and mood swings so it was banned later on. It's also one of the drugs Eric Harris was on before Columbine. Fortunately for me I didn't have any real bad side effects aside from mood swings, but I was also in middle school at the time.

[@josephusthescholar8008]

@@Dogmaguy74 Zoloft (also known by the generic name sertraline) is an antidepressant that is classified as an SSRI and works in the brain by inhibiting the reuptake of a nerurotransmitter called serotonin. It is used to treat major dpressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD, and panic attacks. It was the potential side effects of GI upset, decreased appetite, headaches, rapid heart rate, and low sex drive. This medication has the increased risk for suicidal thoughts in children and teenagers but is relatively safe.

[@FormerlyEpesi]

@@Dogmaguy74 It was and still is; I was on it for a time. Sertraline is the generic name. It's an SSRI.

[@Bird-wz7nx]

For the record, the secret ingredient really IS vinegar- in many traditional sweets recipes, vinegar of some sort quite often is included. A dash of white or cider vinegar will also make your pancakes extra fluffy, if you give it a second to interact with the baking soda! But on a note abo5the episode, I do like how only the true plums are able to cure Rat and Zhalost. The diluted plums cure the brief misery caused by people spreading their crap to others. Its nice, in that th metaphor for depression is still magical here, but its at least kept a bit more rare and special.

[@DuskTillShawn]

It really is though! I didn’t get Muriel’s love for vinegar as a kid, but as an adult, it all makes sense lol.

[@Hyper_Drud]

I imagine it’s like lemon juice. The acidity balances out the sweetness. Whenever I got a slice of peach cobbler that I thought was too sweet I’d squirt lemon juice on it.

[@happi0420]

I told this to a city slicker friend of mine and she laughed and called me Muriel. Then she tasted the corn bread and believed me.

[@Chimeragui]

So that is why that works, I never understood the vinegar thing as a kid. I knew salt works to enhance sweets, namely salted caramel, but the use of vinegar in Muriel’s recipes in both this and the Katz Kandy episode just seems like joke

[@devinsauls9137]

Dr. Zalost is one of the realest characters in Courage The Cowardly Dog!

[@mathieuleader8601]

honestly if Dr. Zoalost was not a character in Courage her would have made for a great incarnation of sadness in the film Inside Out and add depth to Joy's war against sadness

[@DBArtsCreators]

Only if Sadness was meant to be an antagonist, rather than the portrayal of being a natural emotion that you can't just bury or ignore.

[@theheroingreen]

The whole relationship with Rat and the doctor always made me feel a weird way when i was younger. I don’t think rat turns into his inner child, i think rat IS a child (or at least is meant to represent one.) the whole feeling in the hug scene, an older, kind, but sad adult figure stuck in bed asking for love and comfort from someone too young to know how to care for someone like this, too inexperienced to see the bigger picture, and yet precociously matured because of the circumstances they’ve been forced into, albeit probably not out of malice but from a series of unfortunate events. I think rat is being parentified. Now to reveal too much about myself: i grew up in a split household, both parents already remarried before my first my memories formed. When i was about 10, both sets of parents divorced their respective stepparent at just about the same time, roughly 5 months in between. My mom and my dad both had horrible childhoods. abuse, neglect, all the things a child doesn’t deserve and should be protected from at all costs, and the pains of what they went through followed them into their adulthoods. Now they never intentionally took anything out on me or my siblings, but depression is like a disease and spreads if’s self where ever it can. During the time of both parents divorcing my sisters became adults and left me behind to deal with the aftermath of everything trying to escape themselves. So i’m the only one around both very depressed parents who never had anything good to say about each other because of how they both hurt the other. My dad clammed up and says nothings ever wrong to close himself off in an effort to spare me but obviously emotionally unwell, refusing to ever talk about anything, even to this day, nearly 20 years later. my mom using me as a crutch, a personal therapist/vent, a source of comfort, burdening all of her issues to a kid who can’t fix them, and later in life relying on me as a fall-through for money because she can never bring herself to work despite making more than i ever have. I’ve been going to therapy after friends and family urged me to do so, and realizing being a stoic caretaker of the adults around me before even reaching my teenage years isn’t normal.

[@JoseLopez-gi9sf]

This makes a lot of sense to me. Because I too had to grow up and parent early in life to parents that had it rough. Although they did take their anger out on me. When I became an adult I could only see them and pity them because they had it so hard. When I first watched this I thought that was what happened to rat. Because the doctor says it calms him down when rat hugs him. But at a certain point a child will become twisted because of all that depression and hate. Which is why he turned evil when he got hit by a cannon ball but Eustace turn to stone after the second hit. Because he was already an adult and was bitter about life. While a child is just twisted early in life and than become bitter adults. Especially when you have to grow up when you still just a child. I remember being rat and having to do adult stuff because you are told to do so. Then yelled at for not understanding or finishing faster. Rat is counting money and answering doors not because he wants to but he is forced to. And then to be interrupt for small things like a hug and then still being chewed up for it. I felt his pain. Not understanding things because you are just a child and being chewed out for it because that is supposedly what school is for. But neither school nor parents taught you anything important in life and you had to struggle through it all.

[@youtubeuniversity3638]

41:06 The fact the cannonballs can be both green and pink and even blank does fit with your saying that antidepressants can both help people and also be a problem potentially.

[@pineappleboidraws]

I just got out of therapy yesterday. My depression and trauma will always be with me, but I was finally able to break through it. It took over two decades, but I did it. Now I can finally smile like how I used to, and feel like myself again. Your message at the beginning is so true and I just know that your father would be super proud in the person you've become and what you're able to do nowadays. You'll pull through, not just for your fans, but your dad and yourself equally!

[@jordanpatton3622]

I’m so happy for you ❤ It takes real strength to do that, kudos. 🎉😊

[@jeffhough7460]

Well done! I'm not fully there yet but I'm working my way there day by day stay strong and be well!

[@i.hate.swedish.ISRAELUBERALLES]

Asking help is like accepting defeat for some people people expect them to be strong at all times and they just crumble inside without no one knowing

[@pichugirl6]

no matter what, the music composer for Courage always does an incredible job of capturing the theme of each episode, as well as the humor when need be. I won't lie, I didn't realize that it was suppose to be sour cream that was the finishing touch for the happy plum, even after Muriel telling Courage to put them on it. I kinda thought it was whipped cream with how it looks in the animation. One thing you gotta appreciate on this episode is that this is the only rare time Courage and Eustace ever team up for a brief bit, and in the end Eustace got alittle bit of money from it. Am sorry to hear what had happened to your Dad there Dusk. I just do what I can to tell folks that if you have family, friends or any loved ones you cared for to think of them in a positive light manner and whatever good things they did to make an impact on you on those around them.

[@clownymoosebean]

I like how Eustace is too angry to be depressed.

[@Havok91]

I wish I could say something other than "I'm sorry for your troubles," but I honestly don't know what else to say. And that goes for anyone reading this comment and going through depression. Remember, there's a light at the end of the tunnel, and someone wants to help you. You're not invisible, your problems matter, and you're not alone.

[@ericjamesraackf]

I'm sorry man. I've been through that too not too long ago losing a dad hurts and I'm glad you're still here with us making these videos for us and letting us share in a piece of your life.

[@makaylamoody4066]

39:55 My jaw dropped when I googled Zalost definition and it said sadness and listed types of depression….. this was a beyond beautifully written and studied deep dive. As someone going through a very strong major depressive episode right now, this was cathartic and I thank you deeply for it.

[@haroldparsons9727]

I am wheezing after that sour cream bit! No idea why but that just hit me right and I lost it. 😂😂

[@thepokepoet9482]

Ya know. Courage really has some pretty visuals and I think that's what drew me in as a kid😊

[@DuskTillShawn]

I completely agree!!! I absolutely adore the purple skies throughout this episode. 🤩

[@WolfmanManny20]

You’re the man dude! Your voice honestly calms me and having a personal fighting battle with my own depression is going bad but you’re vision on life that you often hint at is wonderful. These always a bit of light in life to find. Thank you for all your hard work on these videos!

[@DuskTillShawn]

I really appreciate your support and kind words. Depression has been kicking my ass recently, but I try to focus on the light at the end of the tunnel. 💚 just know that you’re not alone, my friend. It means the world to me that my videos help bring the calm for you.

[@Phantomphan613]

Dr. Zalost really resonates with me as someone dealing with treatment resistant depression. No matter what I try, nothing helps. I'm reaching the end of my rope and close to asking for Spravato (esketamine) or electroshock, despite both options being scary for different reasons. I'm just tired of feeling like this all the time. Sorry if this is kinda heavy 😅 I just needed to vent a little

[@PapaSquat64]

Im sorry for your dad 😭 sharing your story and being vulnerable is what makes everyone love youuu ❤ thank you for making these videos

[@DuskTillShawn]

Thanks so much for being here, friend. The amount of love and support I’ve gotten in the comments has been so amazing. 💚

[@oooh19]

Well you shouldn’t have to hug people if you don’t want to. This is related to the concept of consent. For example parents forcing their children to kiss or hug their relatives maybe they can high five or something else like don’t force it

[@kagemaru397]

@@oooh19 This.

[@giovanniorellana2200]

One of my favorite episodes of Courage! Special shout-out to the music in this episode! It's incredibly well done and could fit nicely in some movies!

[@DuskTillShawn]

Seriously, the music in this one is so perfect. It matches the feeling of the episode very well. 😊

[@texastoyhunter2452]

As a kid you really don’t see it, but as an adult in my early 30s(even when in my 20s) I can relate. My wife and I live with her folks, unfortunately her mom had terminal cancer all over her body and we lost her last September. Then my grandpa passed here in February from kidney failure amongst other things. Meanwhile with inflation and everything else going up just struggling to get ahead. Depression really gangs up on you, even if you have hobbies and work to take your mind off it…I feel for you Dusk and I’m truly sorry about your father. I know it’s cliche (many have told me the same), but at least your dad won’t have to suffer any longer. Believe and know he’s at peace.

[@IAMTOKYOLEE]

I am sorry for your loss. I know your dad is proud of you and is looking down on you.

[@DuskTillShawn]

Thanks so much for your kind words, my friend. My dad watched nearly every single one of my videos and I’m so thankful that he always supported my dreams. 💚

[@bpeas5926]

Something that stood out to me is the silence of the episode mostly the Canon balls when the episode shows the people when they are happy you can hear them express themselves when they get hit they go completely silent almost

[@KairaSuperSayan93]

I feel you so much right now. I have Major Depression Disorder and I went through it for 6 months straight while I was laid off. Depression has impacted me since I was a teenager and it always looks different to me. Furthermore it's genetic for the women in my family. Hugs

[@marymurphy1429]

I was really young when courage was still airing on cartoon Network and while I remember liking some episodes and certain jokes on a whole this show scared me so I was not the biggest fan of it (not that it was hard to scare me back then, everything scared me). I also didn't like Eustace because he yelled a lot and was mean to courage for no reason and I thought that was mean. Looking back on it he kind of reminds me of my dad, especially with the fact that past family issues made him the way he is, doesn't make it okay, but it does make the situation a bit more complex and make me understand him a bit more than I would otherwise. This doesn't really have much to do with the video, just some thoughts I had

[@drexdenmiyabi7153]

Damn man... this episode came out at the best and worst time.... my friend just committed suicide.... so this episode is legit me and everyone who knew him.... I'm legitimately crying a little watching this one man... I hope your doing OK, death is rough as hell for everyone.... much love and respect for this episode during such a hard time in your life, because it's helping me man, so thank you. Thank you very much

[@user-kz4ro9uq4q]

the rat went back to the doctor so chances are that he might be angry that he can't help the doctor but also that he couldn't really give what he didn't receive as a child. the rat was dealing with his own issues. after the transformation he felt better and wanted to show the doctor love that they both want.

[@SGTGAGE]

Ive found this channel last fall and i heard about your father recently, im really sorry for you and the rest of your family who has to go through that. Im glad you have this KZbin channel to for people like me to watch and support. I was going through depression myself but ive found a way to stay more positive, trying to pass school right now and i hope you are happy right now too😊

[@36inc]

as someone who had to struggle with depression and was raised by a mother who would eventually lose too it, i missed alot of that language to really gripple with it till i was an adult. so going back to old stuff i used to like like these old cartoons and games ive gotten a new value from all of them. they were trying to warn me, but i lacked the understanding. alot like how ed and al elric misunderstood their alchemy- and maybe them trying to use art to warn me set me up to atleast be strong enough. my moms era of cartoons were much more empty empathetically. it didnt tackle them realistically the carebears just cant stand up to the sesame streets i got to grow up with. so in a way those more empathetically structured shows like hey arnold, or the muppet crew or mr rogers like i could name a million bear and the big blue house, ed edd and eddy even had some, they helped grow a defensive wall against the spiral. the art might have been too smart for my child brain to get it- but it still pierced through and helped me anyway. mostly cause they took the training wheels off. they knew it was over our heads, but they didnt insult us by limiting us. they just tried to translate it. and thats special. maybe thats why us 90s kids have a strong nostalgia so unlike and much more loyal too than other generations did.

[@youtubeuniversity3638]

30:15 Yeah, the blank balls like what hit rat seem more chaotic. The plums undid the blankball, but also helped rat's depression.

[@youtubeuniversity3638]

43:09 "$#!+ Life Syndrome" this reminds me of some. Term I recall hearing mentioned in context of treating someone's poor external conditions as poor internal conditions, like giving someone treatment for depression or anger management when what they need is a reliable way to keep themself fed and housed and to not have to work at sub-minimum wage for a boss that gets away with abusing them because they don't have a backup job to go to if their boss decides to right to work fire them without a cause. 44:20 Speaking of which apparently!

[@yaquiapache]

5:06 nooooooo! I'm so sorry! You hope you're doinh okay! Pls stay strong and keep posting!

[@lazilypunctual2863]

Rip to your dad sorry to hear about that

[@fanboy3376]

Sorry to hear about your father Dusk. Peace be with you and your family during your loss. I’m sorry I can’t offer more then my words that may be lost in a sea of comments.

[@softbutterfly_xoxo]

I usually don't comment on your vids (i am subscribed but i usually just watch and like) but i felt complelled to comment after hearing about your father, rest in peace to him. I understand how you feel because my grandma passed away in June of last year. It was very unexpected because she seemed like she was getting better after her stroke but it seemed like her spirit was ready to go home. I still think about her a lot. I'm sure your father is in a better place now, rest in peace to him and i send my condolences to you and your family 🤍🙏🏾

[@emperortrevornorton3119]

Sadness is hard to deal with but remember that you have friends and family who more than likely love care and hope the best life for you I have delt with depression for quite a few years just remember that you have companions in your battle escapism is one of the major things that I use when I don't have someone to talk to anime video games or one of my favorite comedies WKUK is my favorite sketch comedy shows

[@jalgaming241]

Honestly I opened up to someone who told me if I ever had problems I could talk to them about it. I told them about how I was feeling and that I was feeling super suicidal and he just ignored me completely about that. Ever since then I just keep everything to myself.

[@alexgade4512]

dealing with someone that's suicidal is far from an easy task. They probably didn't expect the problem to be of this magnitude. If you're suicidal, it's best to talk to a professional about it. A normal person will just get dragged down with you. It takes a LOT of mental energy to stop someones suicidal thoughts.

[@kagemaru397]

@@alexgade4512 Keeping this in mind, this is why I'm careful with what I offer people and take extra care to read the room whenever they're dealing with an especially hard time. 1. It's not about me, 2. I don't know what they need better than they do even if THEY don't really know themselves, and 3. I may be biting off more than I can chew by offering this proverbial blank check.

[@CoolDudeClem]

I know what depression is like. I've been continuously depressed for the past 20 years. I have no energy, I feel like my life is meaningless. When I have things to do it's hard to motivate myself to get up and do it. It's made me hate sunny days as it doesn't co-ordinate with my inner state. I think the main reason I'm depressed is because I want to be a kid again and every day I'm getting further and further away from that. Inside of me I never changed or grew up, I'm still that kid I was many years ago but I'm trapped, I'm a kid trapped in an adult body. Also everything around me has changed too much, I feel like an outsider in my own world.

[@_iAmDueceX2]

In the face of adversity to have courage is still going out in fear and conquering and overcoming those odds. Remember that when life gives us these tests, it’s for us to strap in & do our best or fail beautifully. Stay Strong King 🫡

[@skepticcritic4995]

Thank you so much for this episode, my favorite episode of Courage the Cowardly dog, this episode hits so much. I'm glad you're doing okay. Keep up the great work sir!

[@DuskTillShawn]

Thanks, SkepticCritic. I appreciate you so much! 💚 This episode is really a crown jewel episode of the series. It’s perfect in my opinion!

[@gothicMCRgirl]

This was one of two Courage the Cowardly Dog episodes that genuinely unnerved me as a kid (the other one was Windmill Vandals). This show did not generally scare me growing up, even the episodes with King Ramses and Creepy Fred I didn’t have a scared reaction to (in fact, I found the Fred episode a little funny at times). But this one inexplicably disturbed me, to the point that I even remember feeling sick to my stomach and throwing up. I couldn’t explain it, it made me so nervous as a kid that it physically gave me a stomach ache, and to this day that hasn’t happened again. But the feeling of desolation that this episode provoked probably struck a chord with little me and made me have that much of a visceral reaction. The soundtrack contributed to that heavily, but just the whole idea behind this episode made me feel so awful. I avoided watching this episode on TV as much as possible after that.

[@veryannoyedrn]

I needed this. I'm still dealing with my grief after my brother passed. That talk about attending a funeral and windering what you could have done? Yeah This video helped me a bit

[@makaylamoody4066]

Shawn, my heart goes out to yours and I’m sending you love through your time of mourning. It was nice to hear you say you’d get through it. It gave me hope as well. You are a blessing and bless us all as well. Thank you for your father for creating such an amazing Man and thank you for spreading joy when during your times of darkness. You are loved.

[@ItsKay010]

I’m so sorry for your loss, im glad you have all the support that you need & have this space as well to work through your feelings 💙 I love the content & I can always tell you truly put your heart into what you do.

[@DuskTillShawn]

Thank you so much for your kind words, my friend. Your support truly means the world to me and comments like this always brighten my day 💚

[@nothanks7263]

Omg, this is my favorite Courage episode! I hope you're doing well, wishing you peace.

[@samgale109]

We are all here for you Shawn we all love you more than we can ever express in words over the internet all the love and support from your KZbin family ❤️

[@mb22256]

Whenever my sister and I were sad and to comfort each other we would say in that accent "raaat, give me a hug" I loved this episode as a kid!

[@joshuabradford8206]

Im so sorry for your loss. When my grandmother died it was the hardest experience of my life. I didn't have an easy childhood my dad was emotionally distant and had anger issues and my mom was an addict who was always in and out of jail. My Grandma was the only person in my life growing up i completely trusted. When i knew her time was coming to an end i shut off my emotions and became extremely emotionally unwell. Looking for someone who cares looking for someone to take the pain away was all i could think about. It took me a long time to get through the empty feeling i was having.

[@mathieuleader8601]

the Fraiser episode Good Grief is a great display of depression

[@connellychase573]

The funniest part was definitely Eustace that stupid dog was right thats the easiest 20 bucks ive ever made now we need to see shawn review probably one of the most intense episodes that always stuck with me the most in courage king ramseys curse which provided everyones favorite meme line of the show that people still say to this day provided by the actual creator as that was hime voicijg king ramsey RETURN THE SLAB OR SUFFER MY CURE TONIGHT YOU SHALL BE VISITED BY 3 PLAUGES and eustace response WHAT'S YOUR OFFER

[@starckie]

So sorry for your loss. I’m glad you have support and that you are taking care of yourself.

[@cpwdubby]

So sad to hear the news, dusk. Thank you for being you and making us smile with your content. Another great video for the books

[@KayBbyXOXOXO]

I lost my dad at the end of February. There was a lot of shock. I felt horrible bc I felt like I didn’t cry enough. I only ever cried at his funeral. Never feel guilty about your grieving and healing

[@Shojoboy]

Depression is a real demon and it isn’t easy to deal with sometimes. I went through depression once from stress, over worked, and other things but after going to therapy, I calmed down and got better I went through it a second time when I had to put my dog down. She developed a tumor and it was one of the biggest things I ended up doing and man was I screwed up from it I go into detail about depression and mental health on my channel here titled “My Experience With Depression” feel free to check it out if you are interested So sorry about your dad Dusk, hope all goes well for you and your family

[@dylancole3430]

My dad died of cancer 2 years ago. This video reminded me of when i was little and courage was the only cartoon he tolerated enough to watch with me... shit hurts

[@bingofromblueyfan]

I’m so sorry to hear that your father passed away he seems like he really loved you and he seemed like he was was a great guy and he will always be there even if you can’t see him because he loves you that’s a quote from Bluey that is very true and just know that he will be there in your heart

[@libramoon1582]

First off, sorry for your loss and condolences to your family🙏. Secondly, looking back on this episode as an adult upon watching this video analysis, it served as an major allegory for depression in a "show, don't tell" type of message. The entire episode alludes to the symptoms without saying it, only through the characters themselves visually expressing the misery they're experiencing because of the cannonballs, Dr. Zalost's severe unhappiness and struggle to find joy in his current life, and Muriel's plum dessert being the answer to curing misery (symbolizing overcoming depression)

[@Silentgrace11]

This episode confused me a lot as a child, until I watched it after my grandpa died when I was 10. It’s also one I think about a lot as an adult as I combat my own mental health issues and face the struggles of the world while trying to leave it just a little more kind than when I found it. This episode may just be a listless fever dream in the minds of many who watched it in their childhood, but I truly hope it served its purpose to remind people that those around them care about them, and they can seek help and solace from those around them. On that note, I am so sorry for your loss, Shawn, and I am sending prayers, love and positive vibes to your and your family during this time. I hope you too are able to find solace in those around you as you grieve.

[@MackenzieNerdyEMT]

Im incredibly sorry for your loss. It such an intense and overwhelming grief, it never goes away but it becomes more manageable. My bestfriend took her life about 2 years ago now, and i still have so many "what ifs". Know that no matter how rough it may feel, you have so many people who are there to support you. Grief is weird and the range of emotions is insane, whatever youre feeling, know that its valid. Make sure to listen to your needs and be kind to yourself. You and your family are in my thoughts and im sending hugs to you all, sounds cheesey but i mean it nonetheless 💜

[@ReasonableDoubt4]

This is my favorite episode of the show and it's not close.

[@DuskTillShawn]

It’s such a perfect episode in every sense! They knocked it out of the park with this one.

[@Rangnathebloodedge]

Even when the ones we love pass on they may be gone but not forgotten the will always live on in our hearts

[@patcahill3724]

This is one of my favorite episodes of courage, I love many courage episodes.

[@Emmj91]

The entire segment of you describing depression is being sent to my family

[@khushianu4709]

Love your channel, and love Courage episodes! Omg, I am back after a long time. I hope you find the courage to go through this. your work really shows here. Your father is at peace now, god bless his resting soul! May the lord also provide you and your family the strength to pass this moment of grief. I hope you are doing well!

[@DuskTillShawn]

Thanks, friend!!! I really appreciate you be in here early 😁

[@777Rowen]

I love this episode, and as someone with depression I relate to it greatly like so many others. I’m doing better now, but I know what it’s like. Regarding the episode, I’d add one more thing to note regarding rat. As you stated, Rat was already feeling depressed, and you can see his insensarity towards the Dr. He was already feeling alone and needed support. When he got hit with the canon he became monsteras, representing the all consuming rage, loneliness, and depression that he felt culminating into that being. However, when he ate the happy plums, he shed all of these painful emotions and became vulnerable like that of an infant. It is in this infant state, that he embodied love and wanted to share that love with the Dr. who was too enraged at the time, and wasn’t ready to receive it. Thank you for talking about this episode, and I send you my deepest condolences. 💐

[@ohfairyairy3626]

I was around four when this episode first aired but it was one of those shows I loved watching so much that my parents bought the whole series on VHS for me. This episode hit me hard when I was younger and until I reached adulthood, I couldn’t understand why. I have a medical condition that causes clinical depression (a severe, physical issue that causes chemical imbalance) and that made me an empath. I feel things extra hard, always have, so watching this, I felt so bad for Zalost and Rat because they were both so unhappy that they wanted to make everyone around them miserable too and I just couldn’t understand it but it was like I felt what they were feeling- lost, alone, upset. Hell, rewatching this episode now at 26, I still feel like that. It’s hard to crawl out of it yourself, I’m still struggling myself, and even though I have friends and family that I know are willing to help, my brain still screams that I should be able to handle all of this myself and I’m a burden if I can’t. I know that’s not true at all but something in me tells me so. It’s not easy, it’ll never be easy for me, but I know I’m here for something, even if I don’t know it yet. And it may seem weird or mundane, but you can have any reason to stay alive. My reasons? I’m alive for my plants. I’m the only one in my house with a proper green thumb and I have a soft spot for the clearanced out sickly plants that would likely end up in a landfill. My friends call me ‘The Plant Doctor’ because of my inexplicable ability to resurrect nearly every plant I come across. I’m also an artist and a writer. I have people that are excited to read more of what I have to write and see more of my random, silly doodles. There’s no wrong reason to stay alive and keep fighting. I’m proud of every single one of you for managing to get through another day and even though I don’t know you, I love you so, so much. Keep fighting, you’re amazing.

[@arsonmouse2511]

I remember the first time I watched this episode as a child. I was watching it with my parents (they were very into knowing what I liked to connect and also check if it was appropriate to watch). I remember my parents being completely inmersed in the episode (so was I) and after that they were like "yeah Courage is alright for you to watch". I will never know the concrete answer of what their thoughts where sonve both of my parents are long gone from life but, rewatching the episode as an adult, I can theorize that they felt that the themes of depression and healing were very well tackled for a cartoon and maybe that's why they allowed mr to keep watching the "funny pink dog that screams a lot".

[@nicolehegarty4749]

This is random but my husband and I LOVE Courage etc. Ever since I found your channel we have been obsessed with your videos. You got us back into this show, we bought the entire series on dvd ♥️ Anyway. Thank you for your amazing videos & everything. 😊

[@Hewhowalksbehindtherows]

This was actually my favorite episode when I was a child, chiefly because I thought the tower was awesome...Of course at the time I did not fully understand the undertones present in the episode, but now that I'm an adult (and also have Depression) it hits a bit differently, though I still consider it my favorite episode in the series.

[@LiminalMan777]

As someone whos father passed at age 50 from cancer, I feel your pain. I'm sorry for loss and I'm glad you've found some form of outlets for your mental health. I love the work you do and it means a lot.

[@saibot7962]

I remember watching this episode a lot I have never gone through depression but ive seen my friend who was depressed It is so sad to witness it I felt so bad for him Its like torture from what I've gathered I hope people can find their ways out of the darkness Please seek help There is someone out there that will listen

[@KageKobushi]

My condolences for everyone's losses: Dusk's, and the others in the comments who have lost loved ones. I'm lucky enough to have not lost anyone (yet), but I lost my job. I've been trying to find one for 6 months now, and just find myself breaking down from anxiety and depression (when before I only ever had to worry about random bouts of depression!). Gotta love the human condition.

[@MyStickyUkulele]

My condolences man. I just lost my Mother on the 16th of this month to cancer as well and it really does hurt. All I can say is try and remember the happy moments even if they make you cry. It will get better with time and being able to hold onto those memories and not push them away is worth more than gold. I wish you and yours all the best and I hope you were/are able to mourn your father in a way thats meaningful. All the love man.

[@iluvwanesworld]

I'm so sorry for your loss, my dad went home to be with Jesus 5 months ago so I feel your pain. It does get better, and we have hope because we will see them again someday . I'm praying for comfort and peace for you and your family.

[@victorleppas3067]

It's really relatable, having a new great pc tower, beginning models kit that give calm moments during the build or posing, having a good paid but still being depress, especialy at work only feeling better when at home with someone you love, your lover that slowly but certainly give you the awnser to cure this depression that mad you feel useless and empty for months is just so realist.

[@LaggyMag]

The music in this episode is surprisingly epic. There really aren’t any shows quite like Courage the cowardly dog.

[@clockw0rkkuroki303]

From someone who's been there and is currently writing about to help people out... Yes, this is one of the best representations of depression I've seen so far.

[@XplodinApple]

My condolences to you and your family about your father. I recently lost a family member. That aside this too is my favorite episode of courage the cowardly dog and the soundtrack has no right to be this good.

[@josephusthescholar8008]

Hey DuskTillShawn, I want to say that you did a wonderful job with this video! I'm an RN who is about to graduate with an MSN to become a psych nurse practitioner. Your discussion about depression is accurate and very informative for the average viewer who might not have prior knowledge of mental health. Major depressive disorder affects about 20% of the US population and is a complex psychiatric disorder that is the result of a combination of genetic, biological, neurochemical, and psychosocial factors that can make treatment unique for each patient. I'm sorry that your father has passed away and I pray that he rests in peace. Please keep up the good work with your KZbin career and your journey on the road to good health and well-being.

[@meganshaw1949]

My heart goes out to you and your family. I hope that you got to spend some well deserved family time with your dad and made some good memories with him before he passed. As for the color green in this episode, they treat depression as though it’s a sickness and the plums as though they are soup made with love. Often when depression is shown in the media, the color for it is usually blue. Blue when used in a negative light is sad, cold and distant which are traits that are often used with depression, so to see it used with green here instead was a nice change. And as to why Eustace wasn’t effected is because all most all of his life he has been miserable, so a ball full of depression would be like throwing a bom at a sturdy wall and no damage coming to it. This is in comparison to Muriel who’s Eustace’s opposite and who’s effected drastically and right away. With all of that said, here’s hoping that things get better for you and your family.

[@interfl0p]

My deepest condolences. I felt a real sadness and teared up hearing the news about your father. Your channel has become a pretty integral part of my KZbin viewing and I look forward to all the new videos so knowing what you’re doing through makes me feel sad. ❤

[@audgepodget]

I’m so sorry for your loss Shawn. Thank you for trusting us and opening up, we’re always here for you ❤

[@Aaron2hungry]

It’s crazy because I’m in the process of making a video about this exact same episode. And you just completely raised the bar. This was a really great break down video.

[@Jonkin715]

My condolences for your lost, Shawn.

[@thekakeking9400]

You have my condolences. I lost my grandfather last year.

[@manifestgtr]

I had a few bouts with depression in my 20s and what TOTALLY took me by surprise were the physical manifestations. I had always considered depression to be “profound sadness” or “existential doom” so when depression made me aggressively fatigued with various aches and pains, depersonalization, etc. I actually thought I was probably sick with some sort of bad disease…because it was ultra systemic, all-encompassing and much more physical than I could’ve imagined. Your mind and body are linked in ways that you can barely comprehend. It’s amazing, really…

[@annedeschenes4183]

So sorry for you loss Dusk, I hope you and your family are doing well, sending hugs prayers and condolences. 🤗🙏🏻🕯🤗🙏🏻🕯🤗🙏🏻🕯🤗🙏🏻🕯🤗🙏🏻🕯🤗🙏🏻🕯🤗

[@DuskTillShawn]

Thank you so much for your support and kind words 💚 I really appreciate it. I’m hanging in there! I’m going to be flying back home to see my family in a few weeks and I’m really excited to get some quality time with my mom and sisters.

[@annedeschenes4183]

@@DuskTillShawn That's wonderful! I do hope you have a safe flight, I love your videos, and I know how it feels to lose a family member, A few years ago I lost my mother to ALS. Giving love and hugs to you and your family.

[@deralmighty8011]

This is one of the most on-the-nose episodes of the series and it captures how people feel perfectly. I only wish the answer to their problems better represented just how difficult and long the journey can be for people suffering from depression to reach a point of emotional equilibrium.

[@raialma]

I normally never start writing a comment before watching the entire video, but I'm truly sorry for your loss. As for the episode itself, it's one of my favourite episodes, the music being an absolute stand-out, elevating this to a rather epic status for me. I very much enjoy your nostalgic walks down memory lane. I really appreciate how you're able to enunciate your opinions effectively.

[@JusticiarSinwe]

I remember this episode well, when I was a kid I really wanted some of those plums because I was sad, tired, hopeless and disinterested all the time. Turns out I just had depression, now I have my own happy plums and feel better. This episode handled depression really well.