I wanna play guitar but i HATE it!!

[@Flatpicknation]

So much love. I love you all,so very much.

[@josephpetrino1741]

I'm elderly and I have experienced great loss. I play guitar because I have nothing else. It's a great alternative to the other options. For some of us music is always the answer.

[@richardgrier8968]

me too.

[@70snuttodd95]

Hope these arthritic hands give me some more good years yes playing is alternative to hunting fishing and golf etc, but sometimes we need motivation ❤

[@richardgreer459]

It’s a vicious cycle because your brain doesn’t want you to play, but the guitar can be your greatest friend and help you when others can’t. I hope you realize that your channel and work means a lot to folks and that we share your passion for this music and wish you the best always

[@highlonesome-coloradobluegrass]

So sorry you are going through a low period. You are a good person, don't be too hard on yourself! One thing I like to do when I am feeling low is read, or take a walk.

[@firecrackerheart]

sometimes, when i cannot come up with the energy or motivation to play or to create, i'll just pick up one (or several) of my guitars, and just hold it close, smell it, dust it off and really appreciate the smallest details of the instrument. i'm not sure why, but there's something so warm and vibey about that sort of closeness to my instruments-even just laying on the couch with the guitar sorta leaning in close .. . much love, patrik. hope your cold fades, and your days become lighter .. .

[@a1humhead]

“I don’t want to play but I know I should”…….i’ve had this experience many times in my life. i’ve been playing guitar for 40 years. I put it down for almost 10 of those years due to life, family, building a business etc… When I started playing again I found a new passion, drive and purpose. There is a saying that I often use in my life to kick myself in the butt regarding things that need to be done but I don’t want to do……”Discipline Equals Freedom”…..I picked this up from a Navy Seal by the name of Jocko Wilink. Sometimes we have to just push through things that we know we need to do until we get to a better place. Often just doing those things makes me feel better for doing them. This is where the “freedom” of being disciplined kicks in. The freedom is from the guilt we have about not doing the things we know we need to be doing. It’s a normal thing to go through these cycles in our life. Do what you can to move in the right direction and be forgiving of yourself during these times. I will be praying for you my friend. God Bless you and have a wonderful day!

[@-Corb]

I haven't been able to pick up the guitar. I'm 4 months sober. It's been 35 years, so I've never played sober. Thanks you for the motivation to force it. Stay strong

[@michaelconnors5732]

Congrats on your time!!! That’s a miracle. Walk through the fear and pick it up. It’ll do your soul right.

[@cubuffdoc]

Patrik, I was one of your first followers, and it hurts me to hear how much you are hurting. You have brought me much joy and inspiration over the years, and I hope you feel the love from everyone here. Music speaks when words fail- pour your pain into your guitar when you are ready. Peace to you from the USA.

[@philmansfield8825]

Landed on your video first thing...just wanted something to watch while I roll off scales. Don't want to play cuz I'm depressed too...but here I go

[@batstube]

Don't take stress friend, it's a hobby not a master. It's a great alternative to things like substances for dealing with uncertain or negative feelings. Remember you live in Sweden, as a guy who has lived in Finland for 4 years , I understand what those winters and the darkness can do to your psyche. Know that you are loved worldwide, you have a lot of "friends" who really do care about you. Thank you for your honesty. Nice pickin too, you got this man! The days are getting longer and more light with each passing day.

[@Cowabungunga]

Sometimes when you pick it up unexpectedly you play something that hits that spot and gives you this feeling that can’t be explained and makes the other 10 times u didn’t feel it worth it.

[@daneanger3295]

Keep fighting the good fight my friend the world is better with you in it

[@eddiegalyean]

I’ve experienced what you’re feeling and I’ve helped some folks with the same. Every person is different and it would not be wise to get pretend to nail in the comments of a video. But a couple of things to consider. 1. The guitar is almost 100% certainly NOT the root your feelings. The apathy towards the guitar is a symptom of something probably not related to the cause. The guitar is something you love and the depression will cause you to feel bad about loving the things you love. There can be many reasons for the emptiness in your soul. If I could sit down with you, I would ask about your relationship with God. I would point you to Jesus Who is the only one who can bring peace with God. It’s easy to receive Him. 2. You mentioned that you quit some medicine. That could be problematic as well so please consult the Dr. and be very careful with that. I would also invite you my channel for some encouraging gospel music. I can’t play guitar even close to your level, but I have written and recorded some songs about peace with God. God bless you, my friend. Forward.

[@eddiegalyean]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/fJPJZ36Poa2Hqcksi=vDk50YeLsCnY0cUU

[@ianleonard3760]

Dude this video couldn’t have been posted at a better time. I’m going through the same thought process right now. If I am not playing though, I’ll be listening

[@AbeC368]

Sometimes I find it helpful to remember why I started in the first place. I’ll get frustrated with myself both with my playing and in life in general. I just go back to the songs got me started, and that usually makes me want to pick it up again

[@ianleonard3760]

Dude ur videos are fucking awesome and have seriously leveled up my playing over the last two years. I wish I could play as good as you some day.

[@Wobbz9413]

I have suffered with the black dog breathing in my ear. I have had months of pain in my empty gut. I have had periods where the guitar was the last thought and disgarded into the depths of the spare room. I will never be a fraction of the guitar player you are mate, but I feel you. I feel your pain. I dont have answers, but I am thinking of you and hope you come through the other side and share your brilliant music with us again. Much love from an old Australian fan.

[@charliehellbergh9545]

Patrick, you made me realize how important it is to have something that makes me happy, and I know that music is your way to go, don't doubt yourself, you'll make it. Kind regards Charlie

[@OU1988]

Sometimes just picking up the guitar and picking a tune without struggling with it too much can really help me. At times, 5 minutes is enough. For me, there are times to work on guitar and also times to just relax and enjoy picking a tune. May you find your peace and enjoyment in your guitar.

[@jamesdellinger6704]

It is like reading for me. You don't feel like reading, but every page is progress. So everyday of playing is progress

[@archangelangel7478]

When you feel down, just know there’s someone like me on your channel learning :)

[@IsaiahKeiser]

I haven’t had the best year, and I wanna tell you one of the songs that has got me through it. The D-18 song. It’s one of my favorite tunes of all time. I’ve listened to it on repeat for hours. And it’s because of your video that I can sit down and free my mind by playing one of my favorite tunes. That’s countless hours that I didn’t spend being sad, anxious, or angry because of a gift you’ve shared with the world. Thank you for doing what you do. “If I’m feeling down and worthless and I haven’t got a dime Wonderin if I spent my life just wasting my time I pick up that old guitar, some paper, and a pen I say ‘thank you Mr. Martin, you saved my life again’” I’d like to add that my guitar has kept me out of the bottle for a year and 9 months. Learning to pick was the best thing I’ve ever done, by far.

[@GlacierSound]

You’ve got this bro, we’ve all been there.

[@RandySchartiger]

hang in there dude! at my age I've lost my dear mother, my sweet daughter of 41 years and now my wife of 45 years all within 2 years! but life goes on! been trying to re-learn banjo 2 years now and it's ALL thats kept me from losing my head. your guitar will always be there for you! everything else comes and usually goes... all the best my friend!

[@Flatpicknation]

Man that breaks my heart. All the love to you Randy. You know. I love and followed you for years. The ”church street blues lesson” time. Big love my man.

[@jeffbeliew6568]

Learn to love it, because the more you perfect it, the more therapeutic it becomes.

[@70snuttodd95]

I can relate to everything you say except I've never been diagnosed with whatever ❤

[@radammcdavid]

Playing guitar is in your soul brother maybe u feel like it's took something from you music is like medicine it just makes u feel better and it's always gonna be a part of who you are you need it as much as it needs you keep your head up look forward never turn around cause what's behind you is past and never dwell there keep in the present love your channel and thank u for being honest and just Real! Being yourself is the easiest person to be ! Good luck my friend !

[@robertcoughlin4961]

I used to only play when I felt happy. Then, for a long time, I hardly ever played. Now I play everyday whether I feel like it or not. I keep a record book of how much I play everyday to have discipline. I have to push through the feelings. If it’s important to me I have to just do it. The guitar speaks no matter how I feel.

[@markcameron2353]

I try and just put it down. If you keep playing when you feel no passion for it then it just sucks more life from you. Have to just put it away until you feel inspiration again. I have tried to push through the feeling (set myself practice regimes and tell myself I HAVE to practice- treat it like a job since I do that every day when I don’t want to) but that just makes me hate it more!

[@keithchilvers7434]

Hi Patrick. Sorry to hear you're feeling that way. I guess we all get times when we just don't feel like picking up the guitar. I do, not from depression thankfully, but maybe sometimes 'cos I'm tired, or frustrated that my playing ain't going as well as I would wish, or whatever reason. And at the same time I feel I should put in a couple of hours playing 'cos at 77 time ain't really mine to waste any more. So what I do is just go right back to basic practice, going through scales, exercises and stuff I've learned from various teachers etc. Then I think of places in particular tunes where I have problems, little phrases that I stumble over or don't play as fluently as I'd like and I try to make up little exercises for myself around that particular phrase or pattern to help me get more comfortable with it. I find that doing that kinda rekindles my interest and gets me going again and at the same time lets me think I'm at least going somewhere with it. That's what works for me anyway. I know that you are a much better player than I will ever be but I am sure there are still things you wrestle with. Good luck.

[@JD-lq2ef]

Brother some withdrawal from meds, can make you feel like you have a cold. They can also make your emotions run wild. Praying for you Brother!

[@brianstevens2468]

Re-Calibrate, take your time, do what you can do. It’s like: tune the strings, count in time, and work on a melody. Thanks for posting, we enjoy you. You are a real genuine dude and that is everything.

[@Stringz]

Right, genuine people are very difficult to find in this world. Appreciate everyone I find that is real.

[@gorthnahoe]

Walking and getting out in nature is a great way to get out of your head Listen to your favorite music while you’re doing it or just listen to the sounds of nature. Breathing exercises are a good thing to do also. You are a great musician and I love your playing.

[@jonathoncliffbailey]

That's a beautiful guitar

[@travisd3583]

One of these mornings you’re going to wake up in a better place and time brother we’ve all been there keep fighting I’m praying for you

[@jpobrien5418]

I don't think i can say much of anything that you haven't heard except that I've been suffering for my whole life so I have a pretty good idea of what you are going through. We all have different ways of coping with our pain. But I can promise you that you are loved and respected. Things will get better for you soon. The pain is an unfortunate part of the process but its also an important part of healing. If i were near i would give you a big hug. Take care of yourself brother. This will pass and you will be stronger for it. Much love brother. I will keep you in my prayers. J.P.

[@f1nalhero]

Hang in there. Don’t make the thought of playing guitar seem like a chore. If you’re watching TV, KZbin, or just relaxing if you feel like it pickup the guitar and noodle around. There’s no pressure, your guitar will always be there, your channel will always be here.

[@clayvan9823]

Hang in there brother! You’re more than just a guitarist, you’re a person many people look up to. Take care of yourself first, always.

[@DustinHollifield]

Im praying for you to be lifted up from depression im very impressed by your playing i also liked your guitar modification videos

[@datsyuk133]

I definitely have those days when I am uninspired and I just ain’t feeling it. Sometimes I just do finger calisthenics, and nothing musical, and then, it opens up whatever is blocking me. Tomo Fujito has some cool exercises that are fun to do. Also, I use folded scales; C,D, G and E. if after 15 minutes of that, I’m not inspired, I put the guitar down. But, often it opens things up. I’m sorry that you were feeling down hanging in there and keep showing up.

[@andyrodger2511]

I've been feeling the same about playing my guitar, you've just inspired me to pick it up and practice again, thank you, take care, be kind to yourself.

[@calkris7626]

Patrik, many of us know exactly where you are. I’m 56 and I’ve been there at least 5 times. At 3:15 to 3:19 in your video you play a beautiful deep rich pentatonic chord progression that I’ve never heard. I re-tuned my low E-string to F# and it produces one of the most powerful, soulful progressions I’ve ever played. I’ve played that progression over and over while listening to you talk in this video, telling your story, thinking back to the times I’ve been in your boots. And this is how I’ve often used my guitar thru my years to combat depression. Recommendation … in order to take back your passion for life and playing guitar, change how and what you play. Just for this season of your life. Avoid your usual quick-tempo typically happy songs with “boppa doppa boop boop” melodies. You’re not ready for them. As a result they sound hollow to you and provide no hope, no joy, no inspiration. Yet. Pick up that guitar every day. It is a faithful friend. Experiment to find those familiar deep resonant chord progressions that penetrate the soul. No singing. No complete songs. Just phrases. Let your guitar sing for you. Look out the window at God’s creation coming alive this spring, just as you do several times in this video. Sing nothing. Just play these harmonic progressions over and over, feeling the music. Don’t be afraid to post a few videos for us to see you in this healing process. If God had the power to speak this world into existence (and He did), then He definitely has the power to use music to speak your heart and mind into better health. One more thing … try never to refer to your struggle using the words “my depression”. Break that habit. Don’t claim it. You may have depression but it’s not yours to keep. Referring to depression as “my” tends to make the mind believe depression is a welcome guest and you are its caretaker. We certainly must acknowledge when we have it, but as with all negative emotions, let it pass thru you and finally out, like energy-in-motion. Try to fear less, and trust more.

[@joemcgraw5529]

I have been playing for 46 years but you wouldnt know it if you heard me because I want to play whats in my head but it dosnt translate to my fingers ,my thoughts are because I dont practice enough and want to play like I did when I was practicing alot ,for me its watching my favorite artist and also playing a few different guitars ,theres always that 1 guitar that makes me keep going ,also we are our worst critic when it comes to playing ,when I hear you play im amazed especially knowing that you havnt practiced

[@hectorhasabig1]

Bluegrass jams are my antidepressant. And playing my Doc model Gallagher really help but just remember that pain and sorrow has been the fuel for some of the best songs ever written.Cheers from Texas buddy! Hang in there and your inspiring me to maybe start a bluegrass KZbin channel

[@jonathonhunt935]

I like your playing. Thanks for sharing. There are times for me too when I don’t want to play so I don’t pick up the guitar for a while…a few days or a week. This is usually when I have to concentrate on getting other things done. Sometimes I just need a break. Mornings I play after breakfast like a meditation. Simple rest strokes to tune my fingers and ears, then building the tempo and stroke patterns as they come intuitively not by rote, always listening for sound quality. Eventually I get to songs. Noticing weaknesses gives me a continuum of things to develop. I return to play at different times of the day but the morning session is what tunes me in. It works for me.

[@guitarzan7064]

What gets me goin is listening to youtube vids of great pickers like yourself that gets me in the mood usually

[@PTAjammer]

Hey brother. I have been watching you for a long while now. Sad Sweds stills rock! Haha. I appreciate you.

[@missanabiekeith]

Thanks!

[@jeffreywinsor350]

What I do is....I just pick a simple technical exercise or a tune I love and play within my comfort zone and try to enjoy the feeling of it. Sometimes you need a break from the feeling that you have to be striving to get better.

[@williamhurrelbrink3324]

❤❤ thank you for your posts about depression as it relates to guitar and music or art in general. I just wanted to say thank you. And I wanted you to know that just this, is one of the most inspirational videos I’ve ever listened to. I sit close to my guitar, when I can. I pick it up and I put it down a bunch when depression is really hurtin me. I try to find things on yt here to be inspired by. But some folks confuse sadness with depression. Depression is so deep. It affects so much. Keep talking to your friends even when it’s hard to do that. Keep creating even when it’s hard. Keep your mind busy in any way that you can. It sounds as tho you already seek professional help. So this is good. Much love. Big respect for even sharing. Thank you.

[@bigbearsandbenjamins]

Hate to see you not feeling well ❤. I always try to not judge myself or put pressure on myself when I’m depressed. I also think that fasting (taking a break), from the things we love most, for a preset amount of time, is important for a healthier perspective. I get winter blues real bad this time of year. Recently I decided to practice bonsai. I go outside and carefully choose a plant to turn into bonsai. It’s inexpensive, gets me outdoors and most importantly gets me out of my own head for awhile. Connecting to nature always helps me. Good luck brother and stay strong 💪. Keep playing.. but only when you feel it.💚

[@johntoleikis9445]

Hey Patrick, I’m off the booze and other stuff 9 months. It’s heavy dealing with depression/anxiety. Haven’t played guitar in months. I pray and move my feet as much as I possibly can. Your cover of hand me down my walking cane helped me a lot. Gave me hope. My best to you brother

[@charleso.8998]

Good vibes to ya brother. One day at a time. Take your meds and fall on the love of your family. You can beat this.

[@zachd5242]

My grandfather is gone now he gave me my guitar and he always wanted me to play and when he was around I really didn’t want to learn any bluegrass I just wanted to learn finger style songs which was cool but now that he’s gone all I want to do is play bluegrass, I think of how much joy it brought him to pick up that guitar and play. He was a depressed man in his last years and didn’t pick up the guitar as much until I started playing when I was 16 (he passed when I was 20) and it gave a him another spark to try that guitar again we had so much fun playing together. I try to pick up my guitar everyday and learn something new and keep pushing myself to new limits. We all need inspiration and you Patrick are a huge inspiration and one of the reasons I still pick up the guitar and play. I get depressed and sometimes I find it hard to pick it up especially with a busy household and I don’t have anywhere else to play. It’s people like you that make me want to say screw it’s no one’s ever gonna support me every minute I spend playing that guitar but I will keep playing because my grandpa loved it and taught me to love it too, not everyone in your life will always care why you are doing what you do and it’s too hard to explain to them sometimes I’ve just had to accept this I feel like, this is my passion and I won’t quit no matter what

[@andrewboore3899]

When I dont want to play but I know I have to I can relate to this and when that happens to me I go back to my first tunes I learned that were real breakthroughs for me, ones Ive drilled more times then anything else and dont have to think about. I force myself through them and just enjoy the song and remember why I got into guitar in the first place. I hope your depression clears up and your love if playing returns. Keep up the great content bro! Cheers from Nova Scotia

[@jvetter8586]

Pick up a mandolin or 5 string banjo. Sometimes I will switch from my 6 strings to my uke size 5 string banjo and my daughter's uke, or sometimes I just won't play and work on home projects/garden. Cheers brother, keep your head up.

[@twangmeister]

You get 99% nice comments because you deserve that level of support! You always come across as a really nice person and I have personally learnt so much about playing guitar from you. Stay strong brother - it will get better!

[@KimJaneKenyon]

So sorry. This too shall pass. Many adore you just as you respect BILLY STRINGS. Prayers and all the best

[@Freeontheland2030]

The side effects of withdrawal from the medicine ain't helping friend, you will have to ride it out as you probably know. A brighter day is coming, full of inspiration and joy, we need you to be there to receive it so it can flow through you and into us. I love to listen to the sounds of the forest, birds ,wind ,rain, thunder then afterwards a bright sunny day full of hope and restoration.

[@jarredbahr1714]

Love you, man. You are so kind and a beautiful human being. Take it easy on yourself and do whatever feels right. Keep picking! I'm going through a lot that seems impossible right now, but kickass musicians like you make it easier for all the rest of us. You inspire so many people to play with you. May the March winds blow all your troubles away... bottom line. We will be here waiting! Anything in life that's meant to be will stick around and treat you right. We love you and don't want you to feel forced to make content when it doesn't feel just perfect for you. Do everything for you 1st. Sending love and hope you have a blessed night, or anyone who sees this and needs it. ..

[@missanabiekeith]

you are a strong young man .. thanks for sharing you are not alone .you are helping yourself and helping so many others who follow you .thankyou my friend

[@TheGayles-pv3ij]

You are an inspiration to many of us pickers out here. I have learned a great deal from your lessons and will continue to do so and I’ve been playing longer than you’ve been alive. How I get inspired is to scroll down my KZbin feed and check out different players, many of whom are new to me, just like you were the first time I heard you play. Listening to music being played, just like watching an exercise video or some other personal interest activity will get you in the mood. Hang in there…you have a lot of friends out here that care about you.

[@Shalleeb]

One day at a time brotha.. You are freaking insane lol When my body doesn't want to play but my heart wants to continue trying to practice to hopefully someday be even somewhat close to you...I watch people like you and billy and all sorts of other bluegrass guys big and small..and ya'll inspire me to go pick it up. Even if it's just for 20 mins. Stay strong friend❤

[@Shmacalacapingo]

Im with ya bro... its hard when you feel like youre not moving for months then feel like you lost time. Been trying to use that feeling for motivation to do something.. not easy! Be good bro thanks for being open🌤

[@darrelljordan3470]

I’m praying for you brother! I’ve been where you are but I’m not even close to being as good as you are on guitar, but I want to tell you coming from someone who has been through hell and back God can help you bub. And he is so real and when everything else has let you down he is always there! Just call on him. You will pull through this it’s just a phase you are going through, love you brother hang in there.

[@tylerhurd9569]

What I do is stop playing, then I start listening to some good old country music and I start feeling good and grab the guitar again. I’ve learned the most on guitar by doing this with music. I’ve been listening to Merle haggard’s jimmy rogers tribute album and it’s incredible with lots of talent on that album.

[@owensvids6517]

Thank you for posting. My wife had terrible sleep for years. Someone suggested magnesium and it completely changed her sleeping patterns. Magnesium Citrate worked for her.

[@jeffredden5136]

Hey, I’ve missed your videos! Ya know I lost my Mom in October, I was completely devastated and nothing has ever hurt that badly. I sat to play the guitar or mandolin, but nothing felt right I was dry. My Mom, and I shared a deep love for music, all styles and appreciation for many instruments. When she left, it’s like it left me…. I believe music is healing, and when it comes from the heart there is not much that stop it. I began to learn songs that weren’t necessarily my style, and maybe some that were hers (big Beatles fan!) and little by little it has started to heal my broken heart. I have a beautiful and loving wife and a wonderful son, and a big family but, nothing felt like losing Mom. So, I encourage you to play, pick up any instrument, listen to different styles and share it with someone close. Maybe, it will offer healing and bring some joy to you. Love your stuff! Thanks for what you’ve done and shared with us, Prayers for you!

[@xsweed-jm2tn]

I’m sorry for your loss

[@rickydejoyco7776]

This winter I had some weeks go by where I was not inspired to play. So lately I started watching some videos of some of my favourite musicians/music. (This definitely includes you Patrik!) Seeing their enthusiasm and skill is motivating so I choose some examples of their work and tried to learn a few simple licks or maybe learned to pick a slow waltz. Something where I there is a (relatively quick) minor reward that gets the fires started again. Thanks for all you do Patrik.

[@VonHanzee]

i know what you are saying. Its tough. Best thing i do is, forget about it completely and it finds me again. Its tough to explain

[@ssrobinson8]

Playing with other people and getting that connection is good medicine

[@justinking5180]

We would never give up on you. I got two little boys, I love them dearly. Now that I have them i don’t really get to play guitar like I once did. When I don’t get to play I watch people like you brother. Keep your head up. These boys of mine will get older and learn how to hold guitars and take care of them. When that time comes I will get to play more and teach them. Thanks for what you do. Hang in there buddy.

[@CA-bx8bu]

Keep moving forward, you will play when you are ready. Spring is coming!

[@scottk8244]

Well the good thing is you're not unique, you're telling many of our stories, I have depression and little brings me joy, music has always been my passion, my guitar is literally sitting 2 feet away from me, sometimes I pick it up for 30 seconds at a time, I have to force myself to imagine it's still my passion, because without music I have no passion, no joy, so I trick myself, stay up brother this too shall pass

[@markrichardson6629]

Yake care man, stay strong ❤

[@richardgrier8968]

I, too, have depression and have quit for years at a time. When the pandemic hit, I started playing again after 20 years. I got back all my progress, then was hit with "Now what"? When I lose that urge to play, I have made a promise to myself to spend a least 15 minutes a day doing things to keep the strength and coordination in my hands so that I don't backslide too far. Lately, my oldest daughter has taken an interest in my playing, so I send her videos of me playing, which has helped. Your videos have helped me, and hopefully they're helping you too. Keep doing what you're doing.

[@colinosullivan]

I’m a new follower and absolutely love your playing. I understand this time you’re in and you will get through it!! Take care mate

[@iantaylor827]

I've just found your channel - it's wonderful. Just wanted to say thanks and you're not alone in going through this. A couple of great players I follow (Jedd Hughes, Paul Stafford Cook) seem to go through similar spells to yours. Just wishing you well and hope you're through it now.

[@1allstarman]

Sometimes we just need to take time off. take a break for awhile , you will come back with a fresh attitude . Sometimes your mind and your psyche need some time off .

[@heathjones9218]

I understand, Just do it.. That's it. Just pick it up and go. When it comes to depression, When you don't feel like doing it. That's when you need to do it the most. Because you want to! It's the depression saying you don't. This video would not exist if you didn't. Don't let the hard days win brother!!! 💪 🙏

[@DL-yc4pm]

You don't ever "suck". Sometimes going through a hard time makes you go up and down mentally and physically. So, it affects everything including guitar. When it is hard for me to play due to feelings, I try to play the low down blues. Embrace the feelings and create. Let's hear a bluegrass jam in a minor. Stay strong my friend and never hesitate to reach out to good people in your life.

[@zachd5242]

I like that “embrace the feelings and create” all we have is time whether it’s happy sad or glad so we either express it or bottle it up.

[@brianj2033]

Understand all too well my friend. I've suffered from anxiety and depression for over 40 years. It's a struggle. Prayers for you and always here to talk if you need to. I have the same exact problem with my guitar playing. Lately I have written down on a sheet of paper every fiddle tune or break I can remember taking on a song and I just sit down and go down the list playing thru them once. Doesn't matter how good or bad (haha) I do, I just do it. Also have been trying to learn some new tunes. That especially peaks my interest. All the best to you and hang in there! ❤

[@michaelconnors5732]

I appreciate your honesty. Keep seeking help. If something isn’t a good fit keep looking until you find something that is. Whether that’s a counselor, a program, a 12 step group, etc. A bi-product of you getting help and relief will be guitar, KZbin, etc. Sending good energy your way.

[@flatpickerd28]

You asked what the viewers do when feeling down, and not enjoying music-making. It sounds like you already have a good understanding of the challenges you're facing, so this may be redundant, but here's what I do: I evaluate sleep, nutrition, and exercise. I do what I can to make those as good as they can be. I pray about the situation. Then I try to approach the guitar without putting expectations on myself. I play chords and listen to them ring, and think about how pretty the guitar sounds. I play a new song or something from a new style where I can't possibly expect myself to already be good at it. I slowly reconnect with the instrument like that over a period of days, then get back into bluegrass flatpicking slowly while being very forgiving to myself for errors in playing. I'm glad you're getting support and encouragement from your community, and I'm rooting for you.

[@dylanolds1878]

I’m so grateful you gave voice to this sensation. I’ve learned that nothing in nature grows at a constant rate. They grow and then stop for a bit or grow and get sick or injured and then return to the next growth cycle. My ego says I should grow in a way I understand, but my ego isn’t always in alignment with reality. Good luck with this cycle and thank you again for being brave. 🙏

[@collinfields9571]

Have you prayed about it...?

[@CriticalThinker02]

I came here to say that.

[@meatwadoctain]

You’re not no one! We love ya!

[@Movealongtherebuddy]

Well I for one am glad you posted this. Just speaking your thoughts to others helps unload the heaviness. First time I've ever seen your channel. You play like a Nashville cat friend. It would be a damn shame for you not to continue sharing it with others, even if its just those around you and not necessarily online. I'd be a whole lot worse off without my guitar thats for sure. As others here have said, getting out and breathing in the nature helps calm the mind. Just keep putting one foot in front of the other. Happy playing.

[@SharpEdgeStandardOfficial]

It’s tough. And it’s a crappy feeling not wanting to play but wanting to at the same time. Find inspiration somewhere else it will lead you back to your instrument. I like to get into and watch listen to violinists or even Celtic music with them 8 string octave guitars like that ladymoon girl plays. Very inspirational.

[@Jack22VV]

Great video! I really admire your vulnerability and I relate with a lot of what you're feeling right now. Whenever I find myself not wanting to play my guitar I usually will sit and try to pick some fiddle tunes I might only play for 10 minutes if it still doesn't feel good. I tried to go to a lot of shows because I'm always inspired by seeing musicians at a high caliber. Either way I find it best to be patient with myself and kind to myself. It's okay if I don't want to play. Usually I'll play for a few minutes I realize how fun it actually is. Sometimes it doesn't stick, I've dealt with some major depressions in the past in what got me through it was music and time (maybe a little mushrooms too lol) I always find myself getting to the point where it is far more beneficial to receive the music rather than play and connect with a song or an album in a new way. Sending lots of love your way Patrick I love your videos and you are always so kind and genuine I probably wouldn't be still playing my guitar if it wasn't for you. Also I'm down to play some call of duty let me know I used to be sick nasty

[@JeffInglee]

Hang in there Patrick. It is great that you talk about it and are honest and open about. The guitar can definitely be a best friend and a mental enemy at the same time. You are the man! Thank you for everything you put out there!

[@cytozin]

I have left it alone years at a time. I have taught people and i have bought nice guitars that rinspire me. Also learning different styles of music. Try to exercise or get outside or watch something. Life is meant to be lived and music is just a part of the experience. I wish yiu the best and thank you for sharing your music and f33lings and teaching us along the way

[@hankwhitley222]

The dark times will pass, hang in there my man. Life is full of beauty and not all of it is sunshine and daisies.🍑 Thanks again for the Catch and Release tutorial, been practicing it for 3 days straight...almost sick of it by now but working through the frustration and it's getting easier. Skål!

[@neilgeorge207]

I just picked it up after almost a year of not touching it. I have done this several times over the years and when I go back it always seems like I get better after the break. I may play non stop now for months, it's a cycle

[@uriahedwards]

I can sympathize with the feeling of not wanting to play but feeling like you should. I find that in those moments that *listening* to my favorite music puts me in the frame of mind to play. I put my headphones in and just listen. I’ll dig around for some old Doc Watson live tapes or some Norman Blake. After listening for a while, I’ll play some simple tunes. I really find that playing guitar versions of vocal tunes real slow-like scratches that itch for me.

[@SiggyMe]

To let you know I'm glad you decided to post this video. Knowing nothing about your depression. Generally, doing what seems hard to do such as getting up and moving. Have a gentle exercise program such as walking or jogging. Just as suggestion take your guitar to a retirement home and put smiles on their faces and yourself. Make a list things that make you smile a comedy show on cable, the zool, cartoons, a person to call to have lunch with. Make war on your depression and you will win. Depression is physical as well as cognitions of thinking. Going after both to assert your desire not to feel depression is the way out of it sort of you getting back in key playing your internal song that makes you smile. Baby steps. I like your lessons. I hope my post doesn't offend you. Thank!

[@owrich]

do not force anything, please. leave everything as it is. there will be some time for playing again.

[@scottdavis2035]

You are an amazing teacher

[@stevenjames8628]

I’m exactly the same ❤I’m currently forcing myself to play, it’s been almost two weeks! 🙏 hopefully it will lift soon 😅🙏☮️

[@1hagfanInphx]

Im a sad swede too, buddy. Your videos always make me happy though. Also walking helps. Hang in there Patrik, we love you