Fentanyl’s deadly grip on St. Louis | Unreported World

Unreported World is on the streets of St Louis inside a fentanyl epidemic which has killed more people than Covid, and is disproportionately affecting black people.
Across the United States for the first time ever over 100,000 people have died from drug overdoses in a 12 month period, the vast majority from Fentanyl, an opioid painkiller fifty times more potent than heroin, and much cheaper to buy. It’s a grim reality which is only getting worse with its devastating effects being felt everywhere. Not least in rust belt middle-America towns like St Louis, which not only has one of the highest murder rates in the US, but last year also saw 436 overdose deaths.
WARNING - this film contains images of drugs being prepared and discussions around drug use.
Producer/Director: Nick Blakemore
Series Producer: Andy Lee
Executive Producer: Ed Fraser
Production Company: Channel 4 News
Subscribe to our channel for more Unreported World episodes / unreportedworld .

[@ryankelley258]

I grew up in STL and have been addicted to heroin and fentynal for 10 years. I'm 7 months sober now

[@1w598]

Congrats. Stay strong. One day at a time.

[@ludercofarms7611]

stay that way, congrats

[@heroin2964]

One time won't hurt

[@Zoe-dr5ps]

@@heroin2964 woah that's some evil comment. You should hang your head in shame.

[@TheUArabej]

I hope it's a year now

[@Charlie-ql1wi]

It’s better to be sober wishing you were using, rather than using wishing you were sober. Addiction is scary and lonely, and so is recovery. You will get there one way or another, find what path works for you.

[@Littlesaintfortnite]

Leave the area you are in and never speak to your old drug friends again is the ONLY way.

[@pietrojenkins6901]

@@Littlesaintfortnite move to another country. I've seen some Americans do it for their health.

[@VCT12977]

Well said!!

[@sarahstrickland744]

You can actually be sober and thankful you aren't using. That place is attainable. I have reached it. So have some of my friends. ♥️

[@sarahstrickland744]

@@pietrojenkins6901 yeah. Cause everyone has $10,000 laying around to move to another country. 🙄🙄 BTW, I've lived out of America.... Guess what they have in ALL countries?? DRUGS!

[@nellepstein3890]

Tyler’s Dad is such a kind and gentle soul. I’m wishing those guys nothing, but the best. So sweet

[@cherylbyrnes7120]

Absolutely 🙏

[@firstlast8258]

​@@cherylbyrnes7120tots and pears 🍐

[@susannetroost5634]

That old man made me cry..Tyler must be proud and thankful, and he is blessed with a father like that !

[@ikkkk390]

That old man being there for his son almost made me tear up.

[@keybordfighter7672]

Beautiful conversation

[@markwake3943]

There wasn't any point in saying that, so next time keep ur opinions to yourself. All dads should be there for their son's, it's part of what being a dad is about.

[@khr8699]

@@markwake3943 lol daddy issues. Chill out

[@ikkkk390]

@@markwake3943 ok but alot of them aren't... So whenever I see a father being consistent I acknowledge it.

[@arrancassidy9655]

Take your own advice and keep your opinions to yourself and where it's not needed.....ps thanks from all 👍

[@MaidensWorldOfWax]

Mr. Walter sounds like a great father who did what he could and refused to give up on his son. Tyler is very lucky to have him. Imagine if the world had more fathers like Mr. Walter.

[@fleecejohnson5750]

Bruh fr

[@Dubb910]

I was just about to comment that. Tyler needs to recover for himself and his father. Most don't even have a father especially one that would deal with all of that. Would be a different story if Tyler didn't have a father so he needs to take advantage of the situation

[@soniamartinez5591]

And men like mr walter son Tyler you are hero call ot mr tyler butSIR tyler proud of tou you tool matter intour hands blessing cam SIR

[@gdot6390]

My parents kicked me out I got clean 2 months later just through Suboxone. I’m back with my parents dealing with solving body pains from a car crash and looking to re enter the work force. What didn’t kill me makes me wiser and stronger!

[@thundergun933]

Imagine a world where the people who didn't have kids went to college work hard didn't get on hard drugs and have less opportunities than him.

[@lawrencebain]

Had a friend of mine pass away from fentanyl 2 weeks ago....the saddest thing is it was the first time he tried it and the last....its an indiscriminate killer :(

[@firstlast8258]

Darwin award winner

[@bigbay1159]

​@@firstlast8258 Found the edge lord who thinks they said something clever

[@mattdavison284]

God this hits home I’m a recovering heroin addict myself. I pray bro finds his self-worth and lives the life we all deserve. 10 years later I still struggle but I’m blessed for the progress I’ve made and life I’ve had. RIP to all my ppl and everyone who lost their chance and are still out there fighting the good fight

[@bunk95]

Addicts are fictional.

[@colinchristensen4398]

“I’ll give him a chance till he dies.. haha that’s my son!” Fuck we need more men like this guy. Shit almost made me cry keeping fighting! I know it’s exhausting but you can get clean! You can live a life of loving acceptance and it starts with you!

[@Void0420]

❤️❤️❤️

[@robblackmore8838]

Yes he has a great father.

[@danielcockerill3761]

Most people just judge and treat you like what they think a junkie is. It doesn't matter if your the nicest person in the world and generous still people will judge you against what they think

[@BrandonBrown-wl3xy]

Yes 100% We as a society need to stop stigmatizing addiction and drug addicts. They way we view and treat addicts is only making the problem far worst. This could all be fixed if we just decriminalized drugs and became more accepting of harm reduction strategies... The war on drugs is by definition INSANE and has been a complete failure for decades. I'm just gonna say everything most people think they know about addiction is 100% wrong.

[@ryanmelnick8793]

2 years clean in two months here. That is what we need. Love. Addiction is lonely. Lonelier than almost anything I could dream up. We need people in our corner, even when we think we are losing. No fair weather fans.

[@darrenyoung3102]

Addiction is the only prison where the key is on the inside. Tyler's Dad is a wonderful man.

[@shapiro9640]

That is so true- great words .

[@alsinakittenz7166]

Wow!! Spoken so eloquently. That was a deep way of putting it....based on the concept of addiction.

[@charlottetaylor4471]

I think it applies to any mental health issue, depression, anxiety etc.

[@topspot4834]

I always thought I was only harming myself, and even though I was using, I was still in control and made sense. Wasn't until I got sober when I realized how convoluted my thoughts were. Point is, you see people trying to talk sense into these addicts, then they're surprised when they don't follow what a "normal" person considers good advice. You can't reason with an addict, so there's no point in trying. Best thing you can do is tell them you'll move mountains for their recovery, but you don't want them around if they're using. Tough love is the only way, as difficult as I know it is.

[@gregoryburne5251]

That’s an amazing quote, Darren. Wow!

[@josephjohnson5757]

Tyler's dad made me cry, as a current heroine addict who is also ready to quit this shit, who has been clean for 3 years 8 months and 12 days, and as of today has been using again for almost 3 years, having a parent like that would be AMAZING, it's absolutely crazy how just having 1 person who loves you and won't give up on you, means so much to an addict!! Yes here in NC the heroin has been changed over to fentanyl, and I hate it, I hate all of it, but I will find my way out again.

[@1SK.]

Let the Lords Will be your Way. I’m praying now for you and I pray the Good Lord will get you over all of your doubts. Lord help Our disbelief. Here in St. Louis it’s bad but God is Good.

[@Christisking1911]

Lord Jesus Christ of Nazareth I pray you will guide Joseph Johnson out of the grips of addiction, just as you did for me 5 years ago. Please lift him up when he is weak, and be a light unto his path. I want to thank you for placing the first step into his heart, and that is the truly wanting a change for himself. Thank you for sustaining him to this point, and pray he will know the peace that surpasses all understanding. I pray this in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit! Amen☦️

[@brittneytrine6325]

You got this, you can find your way again. Sending you positive vibes.. I had to get on methadone to kick fentanyl. It’s a long process. But we do recover❤❤

[@TotallyKoalafied]

I’m personally really glad you mentioned the systemic causes of addiction/ job losses/ poverty. So glad that church is getting work for the guys at the factory that’s a super important part of self worth.

[@memyselfi2005]

Yep. Their doing everything right. Giving support and structure, but also giving these men the chance to have pride in themselves and their own abilities again. Amazing work. So good to see true good in the world still!

[@RayT70]

"I'll give him a chance till he dies. That's my son." So touching ...

[@maggiemae7539]

That is exactly what Immanuel says about us!

[@k.d.kelley2830]

And so sad that he expects him to die first.

[@jcbulldog533]

Perfect answer!! Way to go POP'S

[@brettwilson7680]

Hr had a good dad. Hope he stays clean for him.

[@LupusWarriorBreeze]

Hearing Mr. Jackson say he'd give his son a chance till he dies shows exactly what truly unconditional love parents have for their children. Prayers for healing & strength for both Tyler & his wonderful Father.🙏🏻💕🌻

[@alexcarter8807]

This is a thing in nonwhite cultures. White culture is cold as hell and "family" has no meaning.

[@Aketosniper5492]

I know Tyler Jackson. If he would of stayed in the academy more, then he could do better for himself.

[@kenkenny6196]

The midwest and the Appalachian areas of THIS country have always been the MOST depressing areas to look at. They have been dealt a blow over 60+ years ago and have never recovered.

[@haverscutie]

I was just in St Louis a month or so ago- for a concert- I couldn't believe how much it had changed- people zombied out - homeless folks screaming at you on the highway off Ramps- the buildings are all run down and in disrepair - sad- it used to be such a gorgeous and historical city -

[@ItsMeJustine]

I'm from here and I used to go party downtown back in my day (37 now) and had no fear and nothing bad ever happened. I didn't feel unsafe. Within the past maybe 5+years, I don't even recognize some areas anymore.

[@D-Fens_1632]

Yeah I stopped going downtown years ago. Maybe I'll go back when they start actually prosecuting the animals who have taken over the streets so us civilized people can enjoy the city again.

[@haverscutie]

@@D-Fens_1632 omg you arent kidding- it had been awhile since we went downtown- it was so bad- homeless people everywhere screaming at cars- begging on the corners - I used to love St Louis - now we would rather go elsewhere for our concerts - too bad it's such a wonderful city (or it used to be,)

[@ItsMeJustine]

@@D-Fens_1632 yep! I was at a Cards game about a month ago now and one window on my car and every car on the street had a window busted out. The cops don't even respond to those calls. So they know they can get away with whatever they want. I only made a police report for insurance purposes.

[@marksgoogle4360]

def going down hill fast and spreading

[@birdflipper]

I live in St. Louis and have been addicted to opiates for the last 20+ years. In the beginning, it was black tar heroin that was sold primarily in N. STL and for the most part you had to know someone in order to find it, but sometime around 2010 black tar was replaced with fentanyl and it was literally everywhere. Unlike other cities, the fentanyl sold here is nearly pure, except for the capsules (beans) that are cut with otc Dorman. I didn't even know I had been doing fentanyl until 2012 when I was arrested for possession and the lab results came back 99.98% pure--I thought it was "china white" heroin. Tomorrow morning I am entering medical detox at a local hospital. My longest period of sobriety was just over 3 years so I know I can do it as long as my desire to stay sober is greater than my desire to use, and when it's not I have to do whatever it takes not to use. Recovery is a lot of work but it's so worth it.

[@marketwizard1977]

Good luck man....you can do it

[@sierrachoco5271]

I wish you well and success. Best wishes from upstate NY!!!!

[@birdflipper]

@@sierrachoco5271 Thank u! I was born in Rome, NY and my youngest sister still lives in Utica/Syracuse and also struggles with heroin/fentanyl addiction. I did have two sisters, but the older of the two died in April,2016. She had been clean and sober for a couple of years, but an opportunity arose where she thought she could get high "just one time" and it cost her her life.

[@lisaperry5999]

@@birdflipper my sympathies The 1 more time after staying off,is when od is highest.

[@krikri5815ggggggggji]

Best of luck to you...I have almost 14 years and I am one of the lucky ones. It can be done though! We DO recover!! I have worked in the field now for over 4 years and I have seen many overcome!! You got this! Find positive, supportive people and stay strong!

[@Bacon__SteezBurger]

Tyler’s dad reminds me a lot of my own. Im so incredibly lucky to have a father that never gave up on me. Had a strained relationship with him after he left my mom, and after she passed from leukemia in Dec of 2018 my depression got deeper, and deeper, and I started using more than I ever had to numb myself because I had never felt such a soul crushing pain like that, ever in my life, from losing the 1 person I cared about most, and the 1 and only person, who I felt, cared about me. My dad was by my side from the minute I admitted to him that I had been a heroin addict for 12 years and told him I had nothing to live for anymore, not caring if I died. Idk where I’d be or if I’d even still be alive if it wasn’t for my dad. I tell him how much I appreciate and love him every single day for that. He saved my life.

[@40yearoldvirgil15]

Stay strong man. You got this 👍 lost my mum when I was young, then recently lost my brother. Never got onto the hard stuff but married to cannabis.

[@grifyn882]

you are such a mess...crazy...

[@heidiho5179]

@@grifyn882 Look in the mirror. Why would you just say something negative to someone, like that?

[@calebkimm325]

Thanks much for sharing your story. Thank you for sharing about your life struggles and your drive to stay positive 👍

[@Mrs.CGraves]

You saved your life too. We DO recover. One day at a time. Work the steps, maintain a deep integrity (trustworthiness of self) radical honesty, accountability. I’m sorry for the loss of your Mom. Honor her by being the best representative of both of you. God Bless and Good luck.

[@hildamontano2245]

Tyler’s father is amazing! I hope everyone suffering with addiction gets the help they need 💕💕

[@joachimndahne5710]

Those lips 👄 hmmm 😂

[@dizzy3068]

i use ARCA’s services & actually lived in a Sober Living right where the beginning of this was filmed on the south side & the fact that other countries are covering how bad st. louis has gotten whether it’s the drugs or the crime is really slapping me in the face right now

[@bunk95]

Sober living is fictional. Are you forced to lie? often?

[@dizzy3068]

@@bunk95 uhhhh ok? 🤣 i guess the place i was living in was just make believe then

[@bunk95]

@@dizzy3068 you could have in a place lied about with that fiction. Are you harmed in ways that are causing you to be be kept as a slave now? Until youre, most likely, killed?

[@dizzy3068]

@@bunk95 bro wtf are you even talking about 🤣

[@bunk95]

@@dizzy3068 Im curious. Are you being kept as a slave until youre, most likely, killed? Theres waste other than performing slave labor, that will continue human slavery, that you may be able to do.

[@Nick-ds6oc]

When the host said they want to get clean but they're afraid of failure, it hit me. That was one of the most concerning things to me before I got clean. I was afraid of letting everyone down yet again. However, now that I have a long time sober, I think it's important to be upfront with everyone that sobriety is filled with "failure". IIRC, ~75% of those who get and stay clean will relapse at least once during their recovery. Relapse isn't a failure if you continue with sobriety after. The only true failure in sobriety is dying high.

[@dd61125]

uhh. you aren't clean.. ?

[@Onelightoftheworld]

I think that was my biggest fear. I did not want to die in my addiction. That was one of the things that got me sober and clean. Never, never, never give up!

[@dd61125]

@@Onelightoftheworld he's still using unfortunately

[@Onelightoftheworld]

@@dd61125 He didn’t stay on the shot or do something that would keep him from using?

[@dd61125]

@@Onelightoftheworld oh im not sure actually. i thought they gave him dexedrine

[@BBB-to4cc]

“I’ll give him a chance until he dies. That’s my son.” It’s a hard truth but that’s the kind of love an addict needs, but they aren’t owed it at all, it’s the choice of someone else to actually kneel down next to someone and help get them up over and over again, because recovery is a long road that almost always involves relapse. That’s an amazing papa right there. I’ve met people who stole and cheated and were horrible people, but got clean and they’re the most amazing person. It’s possible.

[@brettwilson7680]

The fear of withdrawal is incredible. The pain is truly immense, it drives us to do things we wouldn't normally do. We also get clean, clean myself for 3 years.

[@sezyboo2]

Great doc but, heartbreaking, I wish we would get updates on doc's like these. To all those who've lived through addiction & made it out, I have HUGE respect for you, To all those still suffering from this disease, you can do it, you need to want it but, you can do it. Life can be awesome again. . If nobody told you they love you today, I do!!

[@jcymngo]

You probably don't want the updates.

[@sezyboo2]

@@jcymngo ?

[@bunk95]

Addiction is fiction.

[@bdizzle5359]

St Louis is about an hour north west of me. On the news we always hear about bodies being found, and shootings. There are addicts in every community. I'm 31 months sober from opioid painkillers. I remember going to St Louis to get my fix. I spent a lot of money to get my pills. I didn't want to get sober until I had enough of waking up with withdrawals and having a crappy quality of life. Now I'm all about staying sober, being the best mother I can be, and being the best person I can be. My life matters. Addiction/Dependency is tough, you can get sober, and stay sober. If you're struggling, and need to vent HMU.

[@luciferrenacido435]

Can I get your Snapchat

[@haddingtoniangcp2464]

Suddenly I'm proud of my boring life. 42, never been drunk, high or addicted to no substance. Food, water, book to read, reggae, I'm good!

[@po4742]

You're not alone. Another boring life liver here✋ And I'm good!

[@romystumpy1197]

I think you may have been born with old head on young shoulders.my daughter is that way,as a 5yr old I'd ask her would she like some sweets shed say no thankyou but I'll have the money and save it,she never got drunk drinks once a year at Christmas never smoked or done drugs, great worker and saver .

[@dp1202]

@@po4742 another boring lifer here too.

[@warmsnow]

Bruh ist not boring you can be so happy and proud about it. There's no better drug than a clean brain. I wish I had a boring life like that mid thirties. Had two shoulder surgeries and still hooked on opiods. Been using them for three years now. In January next year I will try to get clean with a cold withdrawal. A good friend of mine and I we both have a week vacation (at least her and I have three) and she will spend that week with me because I know how it feels to quit it and I'm so afraid I won't make it thru it. I hope I won't annoy the hell out of her. She will be the there try to keep my head busy and take care that I drink and eat.

[@remotefaith]

Life gets rough for all of us, it’s just a matter of time.

[@cloutmuzikbeats]

Tyler is lucky to have a supportive dad

[@ChicagoGuerrillaJournalist]

Wow! Tyler stay strong brother! Much love from Chicago!

[@ConcreteRiver]

eventually, you can’t run away from yourself anymore. You make the choice to go within yourself to confront your demons. This is when true healing begins. Respect to everyone involved in this film.

[@charlottetaylor4471]

What are the practical steps of that?

[@itheasian]

@@charlottetaylor4471 take mushrooms, LSD, or MDMA. figure out why you were using, what pain you were trying to hide from. there’s always trauma from childhood lying underneath the subconscious hides away until the time comes when you’re ready to face it. the mind is an amazing thing

[@carrenpalmer3453]

another problem with addiction is if someone can get clean, having a healthy substitute when a stress point hits - common issue for someone who quits cigarettes because as soon as a stressful situation happens, they light up again; gosh knows the strength it takes to try and quit something addictive, hats off to you if you have

[@micheleberara2842]

Charlie, you are absolutely 💯 right!!! What wise words. What a great state of mind, I hope that your very wise words will resonate with someone who is struggling with addiction. If those words, those powerful words can help even one person who is fighting this gripping illness, you have done a great job! I hope others will be able to think, say and believe your positive and powerful thoughts 🙏. Bless you and I bless everyone fighting addiction. You are worth a happy, healthy and loving life ❤️

[@V1KTOR33]

So happy to not be strung out today. Wishing all you in recovery the best. You have the power.

[@SweetSeptember78]

Tyler's Dad made tears 😭 come to my eyes. Keep on pushing Tyler!

[@Dancingonthesun]

I'm a recovering addict and let me say this, the comments here are heartwarming. We get a lot of hate from people who don't understand all the ways life can fuck you up. Thank you all.

[@heidiho5179]

It can absolutely happen to anyone! They don’t know. I urge people to educate themselves, because I wish I would have listened to the experts (those who have lived it) before I got blindsided by addiction. My worst regrets aren’t my career failures, money or legal problems. What keeps me up nights is the times I judged someone, or didn’t give help and support when I could have. For all people say about us, my experience has made me a better person. Because of that, I wouldn’t go back, today, and never use drugs. As far as that “decision” goes, I trusted my doctor. Now I trust myself and do research, and decide what’s best for me. That doesn’t make me any better than anyone. Even if someone just wanted to party or get high, no one wants to be addicted. All the money down the drain, legal consequences I still have…I’d rather keep that than go back to thinking I’m somehow better than anyone. I was never what folks would consider a raging a**hole, but that little bit of self-righteousness most have, about not having a disease, really hurts people. Now I am helping others find recovery.

[@blueindigoqueen7077]

No one has a right to judge or put other down especially because of addiction. I’m 21 years clean off of Meth n I’ll be 38 next week.. just as long as ur happy n content with urself n u no u have done everything possible to turn a negative into a positive other’s opinion shouldn’t matter! God bless 💙

[@bunk95]

Addiction is fiction.

[@roserobinson3417]

I am glad to see the men and women displayed wanting a desire to get help and get clean. I lost my baby brother 3 months ago due to an overdose. The pain is real and I wish all those who are suffering from addiction know they are loved. You are still here. Today you decide, your journey. You can and will be healed. You decide. Stay Blessed.

[@cupcakeluvbug]

Shoutout to the person who made this to spread awareness. My brother died from it on Semple 11.27.19. Heroin & fentanyl is no joke. Don't give up on yourself there is people who love you and can't fucking live without you man!!!!!!!

[@Eman1900O]

It's not that fentanyl is more addicting (it doesn't produce the same euphoria as heroin/morphine/hydromorphone) it's that it's more accessible. The effects also don't last near as long...but it is much stronger so it's easier to overdose

[@cozme28]

yep, some people treat it like cocaine and meth but a small amount of it can instantly kill you. in the hospital it is being delivered in a continuous low dose, controlled dose. In the street, they don't have time and patience to do that. The behavior of most of the drug dependents are to have instant gratification. That's why when you interact with them they are impatient, you will hear them say "I want it fast and I want it now." I have encountered a lot of them and they behave the same way. Every life is important, please seek help if you have any medical conditions or even mental conditions.

[@-sweyn-9559]

Seems they set us up for failure.

[@doctor02new]

You are in error. It IS addictive.

[@deeznuts3145]

It’s def more addicting. It why people prefer it over heroin cause it’s more potent. That plays a factor when your an addict cause your tolerance always goes up. I speak from experience

[@kskufan]

It's highly addictive. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 80-100 times stronger than morphine. It's measured in micrograms & doesn't take much to OD on. And the chinese & southern border cartel are lacing it in blackmarket pain pills & xanax & even Marijuana.

[@dakg8034]

I had a dear friend who died January 2020 from COPD and Emphysema, after years of drug addiction and smoking. He used to tell me of the struggles to stay "clean." And I have to confess that I never fully understood the "how(s) and why(s)" of addiction. But after watching this video, I think I understand more about the demons of addiction that people find themselves struggling to overcome. These stories are truly heartbreaking. So sad ..

[@koffinkat666]

I was a Heroin Addict, I will tell you that Opiates withdrawal is the worst nightmare I have EVER faced. No it is not just like the Flu x10 like people say, It is like the death of someone close and a brokenheart all wile dying on your deathbed, Which is crazy because the high is the exact Opposite Warm and cozy like being in the womb again with no problems or worries. Now when it comes to Cocaine or Meth the Uppers, they don't have a actual withdrawal like Opiates but they are like a craving, Imagine a craving like for a chocolate Sunday times a Million, Like you can't take in Oxygen until you get a hit.....So yeah Opiates are not a choice you have to have it, Uppers are more like being in abusive relationship with the love of your life that you can't leave.

[@jakeharris3248]

Sorry about the loss of your friend. It’s always tragic to lose one we love. I have just a few months beyond two years since I last used heroin/fentanyl. I definitely understand how most people struggle to truly grasp what an addiction to any substance is like and the mechanisms that exist in the mind of addicts , this is especially so when it comes to opiates. I’ve fought with various substances since I was a teenager , I’m 46 right now. For me like so many others addicted to opiates it began with pain pills prescribed by my doctor , Vicodin, which lead to OxyContin. I maintained taking 40 mgs twice a day until I eventually had a connection to several hundred genuine 80 mgs oxy’s and I can’t recall how long it took going from 80 mgs daily to about 500 mgs daily give or take a few mgs. As the reality of oxy being over prescribed with DEA actually arresting doctors , the availability began to shrink very quickly and the cost began to skyrocket to be unaffordable. By the time I first bought and used heroin it was a Godsend due to the quality and initially seemed to be affordable. When I had discussions with close friends and eventually family about my addiction to heroin the question of will power or just the decision to commit to stopping or basically when they asked WHY? the best way I could ever explain it was to describe the withdrawal process , imagine if you woke up one day and you just felt absolutely miserable and getting worse fast eventually suffering the worst flu symptoms you’ve ever had and all that coupled with feeling so depressed , a level of despair so much more intense than anything else you can recall from your life’s experience and In the midst of all that you’re already aware that you can make those miserable feelings both physical and emotional, they can disappear within minutes and it’s gonna cost $20 Or $50 or whatever. That explanation is still not enough to truly explain the entire feeling one has while in withdrawals but it was adequate enough that I think it helped them to better understand exactly why they witnessed such a transformation from the person they knew for so many years and things I would or wouldn’t do , everything changed after so long of me living as described here. I was still the same guy with the same personality and the same heart , all the same goodness existed in me but I just wasn’t able to project that out to the world as I’d always been able to do before. In my case I don’t see how I’d have made it this far without my family and support of a few key people in my life. Particularly my wife and kids. The struggle for me after I’d had 6 months or more being off heroin has been that I’ll have periods that my life doesn’t seem as hard as it often has been. It can be boring for lack of a better word to use here because I still do many things that occupy my free time and bring me joy but believe me when I say boring is what I strive for now days. After stretches of time that can last many weeks and as long as 6-7 months I won’t even have so much as a thought or craving about heroin or feel even a slight temptation to use and I’ve noticed that I have a tendency to get complacent. Out of nowhere, sometimes sparked by events beyond my control that life throws at me and everyone who lives I’ll have an entire day or two that I’m really battling those demons that push to make one relapse , other times it’s totally unprovoked, after very peaceful number of months I’ll have to consciously fight the urges and cravings to use all the sudden. Thankfully I’ve thus far maintained a high level of awareness over that and the fact that my battles are still ongoing only strengthens my resolve to never surrender , never accept that defeat is an option for me, even if I lose a battle ultimately I will win and have been winning the overall war !!!

[@mariyahj8609]

Copd is a sad 😞 slow death

[@dakg8034]

@@mariyahj8609 It sure is a slow and certain death. And prior to my friend having the disease, I had very little knowledge of exactly how serious COPD and Emphysema were. But as his situation got worse, I read upon the conditions and realized that there is no cure for it and that his life span had been drastically cut as a direct result. In a matter of about 4 years, he went from having only shortness of breath to where he had to move around in a wheelchair with an oxygen tank. He passed away 7 years after being diagnosed with both conditions.

[@paisaboy6511]

@@dakg8034 what did he smoke ?

[@rikkiwazzerman3654]

Information is so valuable. It's important to know help exsists.

[@richardsmith9399]

The gun instructor is a true OG. Self responsibility is the key

[@rwb3562]

You loose your identity, your life with addiction, and in a way you fear getting better because you don't know who you are anymore, and the fear of litterally having to learn to live again. To be clean and free and actually being confronted with all the destruction you caused and everything youve lost... Sometimes ignorance is bliss in that way, not having to face up to the concequences of your actions and face the cold hard truth of living sober, it can be overwhelming and keeps you in addiction.

[@PrettyGhostX]

When I got clean I was a grown up learning to live life, it was super hard. But in time you get there

[@HIGH_noon]

@@PrettyGhostX facts both yall understand things most ppl will never understand...

[@bodhiswayze1892]

As a recovering British heroin and crack addict and Sex worker (Not there yet, but trying!✊🏻 I really feel for these women. It’s hard enough to get clean with free healthcare, I have no idea how hard it must be for my American Sisters. We’re all the same, we’re all here for on another....Good luck ❤️❤️😍

[@LK-cv3hr]

There are programs that are state funded.

[@gavrilloprincip6787]

America has state funded insurance now in the majority of states. Obamacare is a blessing

[@LK-cv3hr]

@@gavrilloprincip6787 it’s not

[@PrettyGhostX]

Keep working on it👏 you can do it! I'm recovering swedish addict on my 10years clean and I had alot of help both from my family and the government system and didn't pay a dollar, neither did my family. Yes they paid a huge emotional lost during my addiction but now everything is good. But keep up the fight, sobriety is so worth it❤

[@homelessman3483]

​@@gavrilloprincip6787 If you think this works youve never been on the streets. A lot of addicts don't have ID or social security cards or stable addresses to even benefit from the programs here. All the programs here do is enable people who don't want to get better or recycle them thru for profit rehab centers

[@captseamus]

I am 39 years, 3 months, and 1 day Sober. One day at a time. It all adds up. GOD BLESS YOU LIKE HE BLESSED ME!

[@petulafrance]

Merci. Excellent reportage.

[@jsb06g]

St. Louis is such a beautiful city. It's sad to see what's happened to so much of America's rust belt.

[@propositionjoe499]

I live close to where the knife was pulled at the beginning, yeah the architecture is amazing, lots of brick homes, you can even see some stone frame houses in the background.

[@jefffuchs1741]

It is a beautiful city-except for the junkies.Come visit but bring a gun.See the Cardinals,zoo and art museum

[@jsb06g]

@fantomas gangs, cartels, and the police like most urban cities.

[@reggieshavers630]

@fantomas You’re right it’s not the police it’s the alphabet people.

[@Bronze7179]

This stuff claimed 2 friends and 1 family member life. 2019 2020 and 2022 REST IN peace.

[@Passportpax]

I am praying for you and your family! God bless you and keep you

[@Bronze7179]

@@Passportpax Thank you 🙏🏿 may God bless you to

[@cozme28]

sorry to hear that. may they rest in peace.

[@Saftey1992]

I am three months sober from fentanyl. I was sober for a long time and relapsed but nothing is better than being sober. NOTHING

[@briandaniel5091]

Born and raised there. Left 30 years ago and couldn’t be happier.

[@GoldGlizzyGang]

This is crazy.... I have been subbed to this channel for a while and they randomly put out a doc from my city about this plague we have going on! Crazyy!!

[@browniepudding8315]

God bless that man who won’t give up on his son. He is what it means to be human

[@gowdsake7103]

And has fuck all to do with your invisible sky daddy

[@beejackson5478]

I just got back from St Louis and I found it to be a very welcoming and nice city.

[@memyselfi2005]

That man has a wonderful daddy. Says he’ll give him as many chances as it takes cuz he’s always gonna love his son. That’s how my dad was. I miss him so much. I’m so glad we’re getting services for these long suffering men and women. I think the question was asked when will our society see this as everybody’s problem? They absolutely need to because it is everyone’s problem. People might think that person has nothing to do with me, what happens to them doesn’t affect me, and that simply isn’t true. We are all in this together because we’re a collective consciousness period.

[@Svveet69]

I put my wife and family through hell. I had to use just so I could function. It took my wife leaving to Europe and giving me the option to come with her or to not talk to her again to stop using. It's extremely hard to stop especially when you have had alot of trama in your life. I wish all these people the best and hope they keep away from that shit

[@vickyjerutokwanyike9243]

Virtual 🤗 David I hope and pray ur doing much better 🙏

[@Atrainswrld]

Did you goto Europe or no?

[@ayten3617]

Hopefully you got off it. I've been on opiates about 11 years. It doesn't get easier on its own.. fentanyl has took the place of other opiates in most places here. I'm in Cincinnati and been on Fett for the past 8 years, I tried quitting 4 years ago and only lasted 18 days, I didnt sleep for 17 days, I was just as sick on the 17th day as I was on the 5th, I was severely dehydrated and hypertension Level 4, had two minor seizures. Its not fun, fett is not euphoric after being on it constantly for years, so for most of us its not like were doing it because we get "high" it literally just keeps the sickness at bay, I haven't felt that euphoria from opiates in a long time, and I won't unless I mix a different kind of opiate with fentanyl. I want to not need this stuff anymore but I dont know how or what to do. I dont use other drugs other than weed at night sometimes to help me sleep. I dont even eat meat or consume caffeine , so I do have restraint or control over some aspects of my life. Just the thought of being opiate sick is bad enough to make me check and make sure I'm not running to low... I'm tired of waking up halfway through the night just to have to do more to go back to sleep. Peace and prosperity!

[@harpsailorharp6716gg]

Everyone got trauma .....we all got a traumatic story ..dont give trauma a excuse

[@grifyn882]

you are such a mess...crazy...

[@MelhorAinda]

I was on opiates off and on for over ten years. The only time I was ever clean was when I was pregnant. It took the possibility of losing my child and severe financial distress to realize I was done and I needed help. I’ve been on suboxone and klonopin now clean since January of 2021. I haven’t ever slammed dope, or fentanyl though so I’m luckier than some. My heart is with people who use. It sucks. I still get mental cravings from time to time but the physical urge isn’t there anymore. If withdrawals weren’t so bad, we’d have a lot more people in this country getting help.

[@myleslong5584]

The immense fear of withdrawal keeps us prisoners to this bane.

[@Donna-vh5ym]

@@myleslong5584 // that's EXACTLY what people don't understand. Being dope sick is 100 x worse than the flu. People become prisoners just so they'll feel somewhat "normal".

[@augustoof13]

I don’t know if you’re reading this, but I’m super proud of you. I hope you continue being sober and live a happy life!

[@gowdsake7103]

Your NOT clean if your taking drugs and you still are

[@niomisingh8871]

@@gowdsake7103 she is trying

[@videorocketzmillar007milla5]

Your stories are amazing ❤ We love u ❤

[@hi_its_dawn]

When he said he stole Xmas gifts from his daughter, that broke my heart. I pray that this man can prevail and become the man he wants to be.

[@jeffcombs2950]

When he said that I realized he's trash that 's just waiting for a good bin.

[@larajones175]

Wow when he said "No one is coming to save us, We have to save ourselves. " Amen!! The accountability for oneself is a responsibile person. He's on his way to a good future.

[@shaekeeney319]

I'm from St. Louis. I can't believe they took a camera crew with them on the State Streets and didn't get robbed or shot.... And I've always had a hard time understanding people like Tyler. He must not know how lucky he is. A lot of us are out on the streets with nobody to help us, grew up without real parents, and don't even understand what it looks like or means to be a functional human. He has a huge leg up, I hope he realizes it and uses it to get better soon.

[@brendenshea1312]

Lol the state streets aint that bad. I live off bates. Ive walked the north side many of times and its way worse.

[@adamwirth4271]

Bet they ain't finna try that when the sun goes down. But pullin out the film crew and ppl that aint ever been round there esp aint safe and also tryn to pull addicts off known corners in the daytime interview on the streets. I get what they tryn do but have them get in the car n pull off the streets. Really none of the streets herr it the Lou are safe for any outsiders. It's not called the murder capital of America for consecutive years in a row for nothing.

[@Widemouth1832]

The state streets are a case by case basis. The police put pressure on one area and it moves to another area. The stroll has moved a few times. I used to own a lot of rental property around there. I used to give cold water to the girls outside our office on morganford in the summer. St. Louis is/can be a rough place. But, there are brave/kind people (ex users and prostitute) who I have personally seen them try to help those on the streets.

[@joemilner7710]

The state streets lol… come on now 😂

[@Joemama_77]

STL isn’t that bad. It’s not the murder capital. Not sure why they call STL that.

[@user-lq9by8xs7n]

This video really hit home for me. I’m from Illinois about 100 miles from Stl. I’d hit the city 3-5 times a weeks to get my dope (heroin). I’ve been in some places and situations up there that I can’t even fathom being in now. I made the choice one day after an I woke up in Barnes to a shot of narcan. The dope man had my car, my wallet, and my phone. Luckily, I had his number memorized and called him after I woke up and walked out and he came to get me at the Taco Bell on kingshighway. The next day, I made the choice. I have been clean for 13 years in October! These people that are helping these people get straight are doing Gods work! If anyone ever reads this comment that is struggling, just know that YOU CAN BEAT IT! Make the choice and surround yourself with good people!

[@timberwolf5631]

Almost a year later, and I hope that Fearless Tyler and all of those like him are now enjoying a life worth living. I live in Missouri, and this is going on in my back yard, in my country, on the same globe. These are our brothers, sisters, cousins, and fellow humans. I take it personally, because I have been there and done that, and I know recovery is possible when I don't want to die. I'm almost 3 years clean and sober. I want to bring others to my world: a permanent home, a job, the love of family and sober friends, and the knowledge that I have full control over what I put in my body. There is always HOPE.

[@cozme28]

too many lives being wasted everyday, because of drugs and alcohol

[@noellecarden5239]

Addicts choose this life knowing the danger

[@cozme28]

sometimes they choose it because that's what their friends can offer. they cannot offer any good advice because they cannot also find their own way out of the trap. When you lose something or someone you go through the grieving process, knowing that you will be sad and hurt some people will choose drugs and alcohol to numb themselves. They cannot find the answer or solution to their problem. Sometimes you keep on denying the solution, it is the ACCEPTANCE that is the solution. You have to accept what happened, move on and learn from it. You will be a better person after these difficult challenges in your life.

[@cozme28]

@@noellecarden5239 before they become addictive they are like you and me. Living their lives, and for some reason they hit a wall and thought that's their dead end. We can still help them recover and live a meaningful life again.

[@kimberlywright3854]

Mr. Walter is so sweet and you can tell he’s a great father. I really hope Tyler was able to stay clean.

[@eugeneferguson8480]

Its the fear disappointing themselves when they relapse that is stopping them from getting help

[@jbiebsluver321]

As someone who is STL born and raised, this one hits home, truly. I work in a treatment center and see different clients and demographics everyday. Withdrawal is awful, addiction is a DISEASE

[@357SWAGNUM_MAGA_X]

Self inflicted mentall illness more than disease

[@tranquility9325]

It's a self inflicted disease.

[@Hi_how_you_doing]

@@tranquility9325 it is not disease. It is a choice.

[@Deegrape103_]

@@Hi_how_you_doingwrong.

[@bunk95]

Treatment centers are fictional. What else could someone lie about you as?

[@michaeltorres3785]

Everyone that suffers from addiction my heart goes out to you, I was addicted to fenty for years and it’s so painful to get off , the pain from withdrawal is far worse than heroin and Suboxones don’t work while detoxing, some doctors or professionals at detoxes don’t really understand that part so when they give the subs for detoxing it makes the pain worse, don’t give up on trying. I was able to quit and so can you. 🙏

[@ayten3617]

Last time I tried quitting fentanyl was 4 years ago. I went cold turkey, only lasted 18 days, I didnt sleep for 17 days and was still just as dope sick as I was on the 18th day as I was on the 5th. Prior to tht I did try getting on Subutex once, I let myself be sick for almost 3 days before my appointment with the sub clinic and they gave me assessment and could tell I was definitely dope sick, so they gave em to me N DAMMM it made me wayyy sicker. Precipitated Wds are a MF. I ended up buying like 3 grams after that, one off each off three different people just to try And feel better, I did end up a lil better but not much. Opiate dependency life is expensive, And for the birds. Here in Cincinnati that all there is, its like no heroin or real pills anymore and thats what most prefer, its weird. Everyone wants to sell fentanyl cuz its cheap, easy to order online, and easy to cut. Its messed up cuz like most the addicts and opiate dependant people I know dont get it by choice, but because its the only opiate you can find consistently anymore.

[@juliej8102]

Hi. Just wondering what eventually helped you quit? Subs are the WORST thing I’ve done. And I have no hope right about now.

[@michaeltorres3785]

@@juliej8102 subs help , don’t feel like that I’d rather be on subs than fentanyl, it’s a slow process and you need support from someone that cares about u.medical marijuana , Kratom. A lot of over the counter stuff like , search natures Valium, and patience a lot of patience, good luck.

[@juliej8102]

@@michaeltorres3785 thanks for the info. But I messed up big time when I took a dose of sub and it made me have the worse withdrawal of my life. Also I would love to have people around me so I could get support but I literally don’t have any friends or family that like me right now and it’s not because of the drugs that they hate me for.. it’s just I have a big f-ing mouth and I call bullshit when I see it. So they all say that they will never ever talk to me again because of that. I’m so depressed and so sad… all of the time.. ughhhh

[@cvgodd1432]

I used methadone and it worked, started at 40 mg twice a day and went down 5 mg a day. By the time I was done I was just tired and depressed of course. It did work though, you just have to do it the right way. I never touched suboxone I can’t stand how it makes me feel

[@kevinsbackyard]

I had the privilege to meet one of the pastors (Andy) the other day at the church making a delivery. I was curious about the Church and he explained all they do there. It's obvious that they really have deep deep roots there and some of the folks they help even stopped by and got to meet them while I was on site. God bless these folks and all for whom they deliver care to. Extremely legitimate and inspiring. Thanks Pastor Andy for turning me into your Church and good works.

[@bunk95]

Pastors are fictional. Did you learn what violence is required to make a human slave marked pastor as well as getting others to interact with said slave(s)?

[@cvgodd1432]

Yall should watch this documentary called “Hairkutt” it’s about a heroin addict from St Louis who’s trying to get clean. His friends bring him to a cabin in Tennessee to detox for a week. They had no idea how bad it could get, he went a week without using but as soon as he got back he relapsed. He eventually died of a overdose. They did a good job showing how bad it can get detoxing off heroin. He used for 15 years straight and would go around cutting hair for 5 bucks. That’s why his nickname was Hairkutt. It’s on KZbin for free.

[@drewsippell1235]

Good looking out

[@a.s.94]

At the beginning of this doco they guy says "I don't want to die, I don't want to die". Yet he has "fearless" tattooed on his forehead!? 😂😂😂🤦

[@preciousmousse]

That dad loves his kid. I wish I had parents like that. My mom basically screamed that I'm a trash person when she found out I did drugs. And they weren't even hard/addictive drugs, just party stuff. I could have loved my parents so much had they been like that man. Hopefully his child will get his head on straight, he's got amazing loved ones and he could derive so much happiness from that. Wishing them the best!

[@drimasuenspellscastertempl9666]

DM for all kind of spiritual spells caster ( Love Spells 2) Lost Love Spells 3) Divorce Spells 4) Marriage Spells 5) Binding Spells 6) Breakup Spells 9) want to satisfy your lover10) Death spell

[@preciousmousse]

@@MEGVTRON Nah, any sort of poison breaks you.

[@MEGVTRON]

@@preciousmousse na

[@memyselfi2005]

I feel you, it broke my heart too because I had a dad like that, but he’s passed away. My moms alive but she’s hit or miss if she cares about me from one day to the next. We all need love & support. For what it’s worth I don’t believe your mom is right about you. I think she knows deep down that if she’d have given you the love and support you needed in the first place you wouldn’t be struggling this way. She doesn’t wanna face that so she blames you instead. You don’t need that in your life. Reach out to a place like the church in this video. People that really care about you are out there. I promise! I’m hoping his son is getting better all the time and their spending time together laughing and being a family again like they both deserve!

[@bunk95]

A slave you/others market as Mom did what?

[@kaushikchoudhary1512]

I am glad that there are some people out there trying to help people suffering with addiction.

[@galegrazutis964]

They bring the suffering on themselves!

[@TheSands83]

⁠@@galegrazutis964that’s true but they also need help to change the mistakes they’ve made.,

[@bunk95]

Addiction is fiction.

[@mijis_manic_manis]

We had a guy OD'ing on fentanyl in the store I work at, and we live in a very small, supposedly "safe" town. Fortunately, he survived it, but he may not live the next time he does it. As someone who was an opiate addict at a young age (17 years CLEAN!), I'm telling you that whatever you're going through, piling an addiction on top of it isn't going to help. Drugs don't solve problems, they create more problems. Your issues will still be waiting for you when you come back to reality.

[@khachuk]

The time you start to recover talking to family members becomes damn hard emotionally

[@defyned]

Drug dealing is a business. If an addict gets clean, the dealer loses money. That's the only reason the dealer says he cares about his clients. Sad but true.

[@ginger0208]

A problem so easily forgotten, great mini documentary, I hope these users get clean and stay clean.👏

[@mackedelic]

I'm living in the heart of STL, been using fent since the pandemic when it flooded the streets. I wish I could stop but I know I'll just fall back into it, I always do. Lost friends, family... and I know one day I'll fade away too. Don't ever touch the stuff, it'll ruin your life.

[@zosiazaremba7479]

If you're still there, please, stay strong. There are people ready to help you. Your life is worth living, don't waste it. God bless you

[@JayDoubleyoo]

Im am so proud of Brian!❤ and Pray that everyone suffering from any addiction can overcome it!❤

[@jonbrowning8693]

It's like this in every city it's so rampant here in Phoenix and all of the suburbs, rich or poor. It's everywhere. My son has been clean for 3 weeks and just got into a place to get help. It's the first time he had to work @ getting in somewhere. I just pray all day everyday. I just want peace for my son. I want peace for all their families.

[@mariankelly8224]

Wishing your son the strength he needs and also to you. He's a great guy to stay clean and start treatment. Wishing every success.

[@karlshorb3811]

In Phoenix too...man the city's changing and fetanyl is everywhere. Something's gotta be done to stop the massive destruction it's causing. God Bless to u and your son ...he can do it. Especially with a supportive parent like yourself...it's huge for recovering addicts.

[@t.yansezung5314]

I really wish success,health and wealth to the people tryna help those trapped souls,,..Keep up the good work guys!👍

[@melemelstl]

Thank you for showing this side of St. Louis

[@diannh2894]

Mr. Walter seems like a wholesome man. A good man. We need more of his kind.

[@jackie1949]

Great documentary as always. Well done!

[@midlifeparty]

That opening line... nobody is coming to save us... we have to save ourselves. That's what our leadership needs to sound and act like.

[@midlifeparty]

@jhony 3tears neega what?!!!

[@og-greenmachine8623]

Leadership is who brings in the drugs dummy! You’re the problem💡 👉🏽WAKE TF UP!

[@og-greenmachine8623]

@@characterandconviction9225 🤣🤣🤣 He don’t see it....😞

[@WingsandArmor]

Tylers dad had such a gentle loving spirit about him

[@lindamatus4429]

It strikes me that all of these people are so miserable, hate their lives and what they are doing yet the possibility of a clean/healthy life feels out of reach in their psyche. Absolute torture😢

[@skittlessunshine5518]

That father…reminds me of my dad when I was drinking and relapsing. Amazing men. Don’t give up completely on getting sober, also never completely give up on an addict. You’d be surprised what you can do. Now that I’m sober I know my purpose in life is help others struggling. My career is something else. Getting sober was extremely hard especially going through withdrawals. I feel that guys pain coming off cold turkey. That nurse giving the injection was a sweetie too.

[@ayten3617]

How'd you get threw withdraws? Just wondering if anything u did help ease them, im opiate dependant, I dont use other drugs. I do smoke pot occasionally at night to help me sleep. I'm mainly on Fentanyl, Last time I tried quitting fentanyl was 4 years ago. I only lasted 18 days, I didnt sleep for 17 days, I became severely dehydrated, heart hypertension level four, had two minor seizures, I started seeing shadows and constantly looked like it was raining or snowing, and felt like I was walking threw spiderwebs. I felt just as sick on the 17th day as my first week. For me it gradually got worse like the first 5 days, u think your sick on the 1st 2nd 3rd, etc, thinking OMG this is so bad! @!$% and it just gets worse. Every second feels like ten minutes. Its just so unbearable! I tried using Kratom to help, but couldn't really keep much down. Any tips advise you have etc would be appreciated , congratulations on your journey. Peace and prosperity.

[@skittlessunshine5518]

@@ayten3617 oh bless your heart!!! Honestly kratom can help and if you can get some thc edibles, and just eat as many as you can. What day are you on love?

[@skittlessunshine5518]

@@ayten3617 and yes I swear minutes feel like hours. Look up Robert Downey jr Easy video. Give it a few watches

[@christsatanatl]

That dealer at about the 18 minute mark is 100% on it too. Listen to his voice.

[@harpsailorharp6716gg]

I'm not a addict but I know people who are on the 12 step programme and doing really well on it xx I pray you all get better and stay strong as you can do it too ..when you are ready xx

[@icpcdetroit3106]

You guys please everyone get in rehab, I know a lot of addicts on Methadone and Suboxin, then there's a new one. But the moral to my story is I lost my 33 yr old son to Fentanyl in 2017. I'm forever sad. Please don't kill yourself. It happens too often. Us who loved them so much are left behind in heartache💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔

[@gregshanahan6766]

This guy interviewing is excellent top rate.

[@vinnysmokealot9226]

Sober for over one year from fentanyl one of the hardest things I ever had to do was flush 4 pills down the toilet the day I quit but after I did that I knew I could quit and I didn't want that life anymore plus didn't want to overdose again....GOOD LUCK 🙏🏽

[@Raquelles_Mommy]

Sober 5 years and the strength I gained from becoming a “quitter”. 💪 power to you my man, a fellow “quitter”.

[@MowEmDownMike]

I'm from St Louis. Lived here my whole life. I started on heroin when I was 15. I'm 28 now and I've been clean off fentanyl for about 6 months. it's hard .. really hard.. heroin was easy to get off of and take breaks. But I ever took a break from fentanyl. God bless everyone struggling you can get to a better place.

[@ItsMeJustine]

I'm in STL too and I wish you so much luck on your road! Please don't give up. There's so much more for you than addiction.

[@joewhite9037]

I’ve been sober from opioids and benzos since November 30 of 2018! I’ve been on Suboxone since November 30 of 2018 it’s sad it took me to see my family watching me overdose to realize I had a problem and get clean! I pray for everybody who still addicted and those like my family who have lost love ones.

[@KILEE-4yt]

Congratulations on ur sobriety Joe! I am on methadone & have been sober ever since. Even started lowering my dose slowly. Take care ✌🏻

[@haverscutie]

Congrats Joe- I've been off almost 15 years- keep pushing my friend! ❤️

[@Hi_how_you_doing]

Being on suboxone is not being clean. It is a start but most folks get hooked on it and can't get off of it.

[@haverscutie]

@@Hi_how_you_doing it's better than being on illicit Drugs- Suboxone is a Godsend- it has saved many many lives- including mine - it's just like taking any kind of medicine that you have to take daily- like blood pressure medicine- or whatever - and when you are ready to get off of it - the doctor will help you - so that way no discomfort Is felt.

[@joewhite9037]

@@Hi_how_you_doing I am not hooked and I know, nor have I heard of, no one that is hooked. So, your information is wrong! Have you ever personally gone through a opioid addiction? If not, don’t say this to a recovering addict. Stuff like this is the reason why suicide rates and relapse rates are high among recovering addicts. Everyone who says this has no idea know what it’s like and it needs to stop now. Check y’all’s biases.

[@georgiatenantadvocategroup2822]

Addiction is one of the hardest things to kick. No matter what the substance is and that includes food.

[@galegrazutis964]

Thankyou SO much for including. Food. Never smoked never drink never even tried marijuana. But Ice cale fast food has taken over . To the point where l self harm not to think about the Food l am so desperately craving!

[@maryt2196]

I grew up with a stoned mother and feel.very unsympathetic towards drug addicts..the pain and devastation they leave in their wake can be unbearable...but Tyler's dad made me wish very much that he gets clean and stays that way..best i can feel about it ...

[@fhviking5]

Praying for my city. People are hurting but STL is tough, I hope the efforts of the hard working people can bring change!

[@handsomeman-pm9vy]

Hopeless! I left there 40 years ago.

[@calumashleymcdonough8955]

You can tell that the dad has such beautiful unconditional love for his son. What a wonderful man. I'm sorry he has had to go through the trauma of his son's addiction

[@heidiho5179]

He is a good dad. Most of all, I’m sorry his son has to go through addiction.

[@laralebeu36]

Thank you so much for covering this.

[@stevensims3342]

Not sure how I can convey this but had a friend of a sibling visit, I didn't really know her but asked about Kensington and she just replied "Oh we don't go there and if we do we go swiftly" and that just kind of struck me. Like knowing a zombie land exists but you must sort of ignore it to stay focused and on track. This area is really really bad.

[@bigbrad6828]

This makes me so sad. I live in the St. Louis area and it’s heartbreaking because our city is so beautiful but it’s got so many demons.

[@godsamazing2090]

Brian, I'm proud if you, Brotha 🥰 Keep up the good work! You got this 💪🏿

[@MatthewJSzymko]

I moved out of St. Louis to start my sobriety and recovery. The amount of RIP's i see is tragic, but all the folks working a program will continue to pass the message that there is hope to those who are struggling.

[@HIGH_noon]

i feel like you almost gotta get outta STL after you become addicted cuz that shit must be depressing using for all that time cuz your city is falling apart and there are no jobs and all the crime and poverty and drugs... then trying to get clean and walking right back out into that environment seeing how things arent getting any better, shit is getting worse, you have to pass by all the old spots you used to live and use to get to work and all that... must be depressing as hell and would honestly pull me back in.