If You’re At Your Breaking Point, Then This Is For You

[@drcharliejohnson]

Adam! This is Dr. Charlie Johnson, PT. Amazing story. Appreciate your support, sharing your story, and helping me spread what I’m passionate about. So glad we crossed paths 💪🏻 🙏🏻 Shot you an email- would love to connect. Thanks a million for sharing Adam! Keep up the great work on your end.

[@AdamDuffArt]

No Dr Johnson, the appreciation is all mine. I’m very happy my video reached you well :) I just noticed your email and will be getting back to you very soon - just having back surgery atm - JK ;) Thank you son much, you’re a gift to all who discover you.

[@StornCook]

@@AdamDuffArt Oh geez, best of luck and quick recovery wishes!!!

[@whitesnake.]

Thank you for your work. 🤍

[@drcharliejohnson]

@@whitesnake. thanks man- appreciate it! I'll keep at it...

[@UP-zq1ml]

“People cry, not because they are weak. It is because they've been strong for too long.” ― Johnny Depp

[@AdamDuffArt]

Oof! I LIVE that quote (and the man who said it)

[@Sbsendit1]

I’m at my breaking point an I don’t know what’s keeping my alive

[@obsidianwing]

@@Sbsendit1 same

[@carnigoth]

That comment made me weep

[@snowpanther7076]

I think one of my problems is the fear of hope. Hope has only ever brought me disappointment. At least when I'm not expecting something then I'm either right or pleasantly surprised but hope and optimism has only ever left me crushed

[@gavintappenden6568]

I'm currently healing from a leg injury that took me out of collage a two weeks before finals. All during my senior year in the mist of applying for summer internships, trying to build a website/ resume while keeping up with school work. I'm an older student living with my parents, working a job only on the weekends to make ends meet. I thought I had a sciatic nerve pain (I think they're micro/minor tears in leg muscles) none the less I was in unbelievable pain. The first week I was lost because I didn't have health insurance and no where to turn. I questioned everything. lost hope of my future and saw everything I worked for falling apart. IM NOT GOING TO LET THIS TAKE ME OUT! I'm getting better and it is a slow process. I'm getting through finals now. Thanks for sharing your story, I don't wish painful health issues on anyone but your not alone. I wish you a healthy recovery. Cheers

[@AdamDuffArt]

You are most welcome - and don’t worry you’re going to be just fine:)

[@DragonNinjaGaming]

As a man who had majour knee surgery, was raped a week after when i couldn't move, surgery went bad and ended up in wheelchair for rest of my life at the age of 22. Seen so many surgeons, been told they can't fix my legs. Suffer from constant pain, knee dislocations every week, have social anxiety, can't leave the house most of the time. Been diagnosed with ptsd. Even door lbell rings make me jump. Now my spine is damaged and just been told my spine is closing over my nerves from my top of my neck down. Immense Pain runs down my whole arms and losing strength in them each month. Need major surgery on my spine within a year, but I still try and find positives in my life. Love gaming, recently got a saltwater aquarium, my dog is my best friend. We are inseparable. Took up drawing Art is my therapy. I was told that it helps, and it definately does take my mind off of things. Thankyou for talking about life and the difficulties it brings. You are an inspiration. Thankyou mate.

[@AdamDuffArt]

I’m sorry to hear about what you’ve been through but you are certainly a fighter for not giving up on yourself

[@sarastanoeska4618]

We need more immeasurably wise and compassionate humans like you on this planet. Thank you for sharing your story, Adam. I bet I'm not alone when I say this video found me at the perfect moment, and there are a lot of things here that I needed to hear right now.

[@jean_mollycutpurse_winchester]

It never ceases to amaze me, how much a pain the body can generate

[@adewirahman7692]

Watching this video is really hard, I had to pause several times to let what you went through sink in. I'm so glad you managed to overcome your back pain in spite of all the false starts and poor therapy. Thanks for sharing you story Adam and for being vulnerable and real with us!

[@AdamDuffArt]

I welcome the challenge on my part - I’ve learned more in 9 months than I have in a very long time

[@alanreyes3451]

this hit me HARD. ive been struggling for the past 6 months with debilitating anxiety and ocd. i couldnt hang out with my friends, eat food, even enjoy a basic tv show without a little alarm going off in my head telling me im in danger. its a ridiculous defense mechanism that has affected every way you could think of and even now, it still is a bother. but i think i hit my breaking point, atleast i hope so. though my recovery has been very much to thank due to medication and most people would frown upon that, i dont care. i finally feel like i can live my life again, not to the fullest but just enough to give me hope, which is enough for me right now. its been easier to know my triggers. what makes me feel in danger and why, as well as being able to rationalize it in my head without going into a state of hot flash immobilizing anxiety. i hope i can get to the recovery point where you are at, going from 10/10 pain to a .5 as always, you never fail to give me hope. i am thankful i stumbled upon your channel Adam. i wish you were like my uncle or something xD. thank you for shamelessly being a person

[@UKNCY]

NO WAY I have also been struggling with extremely bad OCD and anxiety and for the past 6 months too!!! What a crazy coincidence. I’m very proud of you and stay strong my friend

[@Michael9635]

Thank you for sharing this Adam. Thank you for a lot of things

[@lizzelloart]

I just wanted to say thank you for sharing this. Because you're right. The worst thing that you can feel is hopelessness. And I hope that someone who is on the verge of losing hope finds YOUR story and realizes that as long as you're still alive and breathing, there's a chance, there's HOPE that the future is brighter then the present day.

[@ricardochiappevegas4872]

I´ve suffered the same 🤔(almost exactly) what you shared. I was packing my bag to go to work, felt that pain in my back and went to the floor. It took a lot to walk to the car (my brother was driving) and eventually had to go to the clinic as I couldn’t move. They took some X-rays and gave something for the pain and schedule a doctor the next week. He said that if I didn’t lose at least 10 kg than surgery was the option and it was 50-50 chance to walk again. The fear of not walking again broke me as a I left the hospital with the therapy (hot-cold and electric treatment, sorry don’t recall the exact names). I had to slowly adapt from changing how I sit, walked, stand, how I planted my feet and the motion, how pick up stuff from the floor, etc etc. Yoga also helped but my teacher knew about the problems so she usually showed ways to do certain poses or variations. I haven’t had any issues but it’s something that makes you rework how you do things, how you go through life. Thanks for sharing your story and hope you keep getting better and stronger.

[@forild_gaming2157]

Thanks for your support through out the years.

[@Ouchthathurt843]

I have a mother with chronic pain in her neck and back. It’s so hard seeing her in pain for most of my childhood and to this day she still can’t catch a break as she was recently diagnosed with Sjögren’s syndrome. Most people have no idea what it’s like to be in pain for most of your waking life, what it does to your mind and your ambition. I’m so thankful for her strength and courage to keep going and being a fantastic mother. She gave up her dreams to raise my brother and I. She has supported my art career and props me up even when I’m at my lowest point. This sounds strange but you’re like my KZbin dad, (you give off dad vibes) and you remind me a lot of my mother. You have so much wisdom to give, it breaks my heart you are in so much pain. I can hope you have better days.

[@DarkVisionAfterMidnight]

Thank you, Adam. Your words mean a lot to me, as I'm in a similar spot - I'm 26 and by the end of 2021 I got diagnosed with Fibromyalgia. And with that came so many things that I needed to learn about myself to be able to deal with this. Like realizing that I'm also a Highly Sensitive Person. It's quite the journey and sometimes I just feel utterly hopeless, and this struggle will likely be with me my entire life.. so as you said, the only thing one can really do is to learn about oneself and to work with yourself the best way you can.

[@cinchch]

Thank you, for choosing to be a wonderful human.

[@crystalh6968]

Adam, thank you for sharing this, I have spinal stenosis and my son get flares of CRPS from patellar instability. We have found specific things that help that are outside the conventional advice. But only after a long time navigating that “gold standard.”

[@DiamondEyez456]

Medical gaslighting is HORRIBLE from GP's and how they overprescribe. I understand so much. I am thankful for my rheumatologist. My GP also filed to tell me of my thyroid issues as well and I do have blood results where I could do something yet it isn't worth it. Omitting blood results is illegal. Also, I am thankful my rheumatologist got me into a pain management program. (He asked me why my first appointment why took so long. I broke into tears as I explained I asked for years...the same for a sleep lab that showed I have sleep apnea. I begged for two years previously for a sleep lab, and he wait til things we so horridly bad). I am thankful I have a few specialists behind me who have been horrified by his medical care. I don't plan to fight it, I plan to just take care of myself the best way I can. I am so glad you were finally taken seriously and taken care of by proper medical professional people. 🙏

[@nh8444]

I recently “pulled a muscle” in my back for the second time. I picked my daughter up and felt a cold tingle in my lower back. I tried picking her up again, felt a jolt, fell to my knees and couldn’t move. I called my wife, she came and got my daughter and it took me almost 6 minutes to stand up. Long story short, I went to a chiropractor (I live in Japan), he cracked my back, did some deep massage, pulled on my pelvis a bunch. After four days of not being able to stand for more than 10 minutes at a time, I could stand. I could walk. Exercise, strengthen your back, cuz the more it happens, the more it will happen. Scary stuff. I couldn’t imagine months of that. The pain was unreal. Glad you’re getting better.

[@tothemax3884]

Chronic back pain can be so brutally defeating with how much of your life it inhibits and how ruthless the pain can be. Just breathing and feeling the pressure against your ribs makes every breath a struggle. I can’t imagine going through it for as long as you have but I truly hope that moving forward your back remains healthy, or at the least your recovery times are much shorter and easier.

[@krzysztofmathews738]

This is a very good talk to hear today. Thank you.

[@DavidKohout]

Right on time! 💜

[@ಇLiv]

Nothing beats slowing down and letting your body take care of itself. Thank you for sharing your story Adam. - Olivia

[@RevellAndRepend]

Being in terrible pain for that long.. I'm not sure how to choose my words but I'm glad you found a way to get out of it. Sooner or later everyone will have to face some kind of debilitating illness or chronic pain/discomfort, sometimes for the rest of our lives. I've been there myself, and I remember the day the problem got resolved and was sent back home on an icy winter noon, the feeling of hope, that my life wasn't going to be hell from there on out, was something I don't think I've ever felt before.

[@patrickhansen6815]

It is amazing to hear you share your story 😍🙂 after i healed from my herniation in my early 20's I did feel a Tiny tingling in my flower back for quite a few years. I'm 28 now, and the small annoyance/pain only just went away like a year ago. I am completely free of pain in my lower back now 🙂 I did exercises that felt relieving to my back when needed 🙂 I wish you All the best onwards 🎉😊

[@shrewsburygobelen8449]

Thanks for the advice!

[@FallenChocoCookie]

I'm glad you're feeling better after such a long time and I thank you for sharing this with us. I can also second this - I've been diagnosed with MS last year, after onset of symptoms, including pretty bad neuropathic (nerve) pain, two years prior. And the most useful advice I've been given has also been: whatever movements you can safely do, do them! Keep moving, keep eating the things that give you energy and that make you feel good, cut what makes you feel tired, "hung over" or in more pain. Adhere to good routines, prioritise rest when you need it, etc. We need to listen to ourselves. Being able to appreciate the things you can do to make yourself feel better is what will, in the end, keep you in good spirits. Not that there aren't tough moments, there absolutely are! - but it's important to remember that there are almost always at least a couple of things you can do to make your own life better, however small they may be. ♥ Take care of yourselves. Don't rush back into whatever you thought of as normal before your life or health changed in whatever way.

[@AdamDuffArt]

Your perspective is brilliant. You literally embody that strength of spirit that I feel makes the best version of humanity You take care of yourself my friend :)

[@daklr2501]

Dude your video reminds me of how I've only now, I'm starting to rise out of my neurosis. After letting myself drift for years depressed, scared, powerless, hopeless, an addict, with guilt and nagging fear telling me I was doing terrible self-destructive things to myself, that I might never recover, or ever reach those far off places I want to be. Psychologists, Psychiatrists, Therapists, they would talk to me and make prescriptions but I would never feel better. But now I am conquering my addictive tendencies, facing my procrastination, managing my environment to halt addictive behaviors, going to new places, learning new things, even making new friends, shit I NEVER thought I'd be capable of in the throes of despair. I'm not where I want to be yet, but I have made so much progress! Less screentime, more productivity, better self confidence. I feel better about myself, and that I just might make it in this ongoing battle with the worse parts of myself. Total sobriety, Good diet, Good sleep, Good health! the light at the end of the tunnel, my reward if I am to succeed! For me, I was given 'the tools' to help myself from channels (Eternalized, and Unexpectedly a channel called _Meme Analysis_ ) teaching me about Jungian Psychoanalysis. Through them I was basically taught to help myself, just like your experience with Dr Charlie Johnson. Thank you for this video.

[@aranyak1881]

I'm at the lowest point in my life right now where all options are exhausted. I haven't finished watching the video, but this makes me want to wake up again tomorrow to finish it.

[@makjr1247]

My heart goes out to you back injuries are horrible. That doctor is like a lot of doctors today the patient is not a unique person but just commerce. Be well.

[@deledition6335]

People don't realize how life changing an experience like this can be. Feeling better is also life changing. Thanks for sharing.

[@Michael9635]

I am so proud of you

[@dlalleman3874]

Thank you for sharing this now. I am going through a slightly similar process. I have severe hemmorhoids and bleeding fissures. I haven't been able to play sports for months, trying to get a doctor's appoint. I am in a 4 month NHS waitlist that I pay a lot of money for. I have hope, my parents are able to pay for private healthcare after months of unbearable pain. Special diets, on and off work, cream that is numbing the pain and at the same time thinning the skin got me in a loop for months. The hope comes from having treatment one couple of weeks 'finally'. I have hope again.

[@kareemburke9212]

Hi Adam, I miss your artbook reviews. I hope to see one soon!

[@daniilivanov9525]

Thank you Adam, your messages always slip me out from the darkest places of my mind. You are the person i look up to, when it comes to compassion qnd beiing a nice dude. Thank very much.

[@iliketrees8708]

Just after another saturday of work with being assigned tasks i never did and did not get proper introduction for etc., expecting a nice cut on my paycheck because of the mistkes i've made... and another whole saturday of crying while work, because of how this company is handling stuff. Thank you (company) for doing this for about 12 years now, ignoring all feedback and suggestions to improve the situation for the employees. You have finally convinced me to get my ass up and try something else, even if it fails. I'm happy that I am able to do this while still taking a big risk, but at least me and my partner do not have many obligations, so we will do the step and start our own business (he's in the exact same spot). For anyone in a similar situation: Love to all of you, take care of yourself and if you can not handle it any longer ... end it, start something new. Thank you adam for this video and being so honest, as always.

[@AdamDuffArt]

You are very welcome :)

[@love1614]

I am so happy to hear that you are oké now. Thank you for this video

[@HannaRiikkaK]

Thank you for this. I have no other words, just thank you. 🙏

[@shmickcreations]

Thankyou 🙏🏼✨

[@PhillipRauschkolb]

Been dealing with shoulder pain in my drawing arm for months now….was beginning to feel hopeless but thankfully I finally found a treatment that’s giving me relief and real hope that it will heal

[@AdamDuffArt]

That can also be a herniation - a cervical spine herniation. You might want to look into that

[@CallMeCaroline]

This is a great video! I am realising that to know one's self is a life long journey. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and I am glad things are improving.

[@Houdini_Bob]

Adam, thank you so much for sharing your journey of back pain. I have a genetic condition called neurofibromatosis, it causes bumps all over my body. some are small, about the size of a pencil lead, other about the size of your thumb. I did not show any signs of it until my early 20s. this was in early 1980s at the start of the AIDs epidemic. Since then I have been treated like a leper, I have never had a relationship, never had a tender moment with anyone. I get stared at, get looks of disgust sometimes even fear. I'm 66 and twilight is upon me and midnight is not that far away but otherwise I am in good health I just take each day one at a time. your words hit home, they give me a different outlook. they just see the cover of my book, they don't see the loyal, dedicated friend I can be. but your words have or will have me say "F it" I'm going to push past this breaking point I hit. I am going to go do the things I want because time is short". May Peace by with you and enjoy health and a pain free back. you are a terrific person. Love you Adam/

[@jesustyronechrist2330]

Seriously tho, I twisted my knee and ruptured a tendon in my wrist last year (I got into a slightly dangerous hobby) and I went to see a physiotherapist in both cases. They did the same thing, telling me to do some stretches and exercises. It was extremely painful and both places were inflamed and in pain. Then I stopped doing them, because I generally don't trust anyone's advice if I've prove it doesn't work on me personally, and lo and behold! They started to heal. Sure, at the extereme ends of the range of motion I had some seering pain, but just moving the joints was fine. 8 months later I only feel knee pain if I bend or twist my leg in a very particular way and the wrist one I feel only when I try to take off my backbag. So I really don't know wtf is with this "Oh it hurts when you move it, huh? Well just keep moving it, it will fix it!" I know it's about conditioning and making sure your range of movement won't be sacrificed, but that only really applies to when you've broken a bone and things could heal incorrectly. If the 9/10 dentists love one toothpaste, but it gives you cavities, maybe just listen to that 1 dentist who hates it and gives you the tootpaste that FOR YOU gives you super powers

[@Jaaziar]

Thank you for sharing your story, Jesus Tyrone Christ!

[@veraha4706]

Adam , you are fucking strong ! I cant even imagine the agony you went through and still managed to be an artist, teacher and a father. You are truly an inspiration in every possible way. Sending love !

[@CurtisHendricks]

Thank you for putting that out there, you said a lot of things many of us need to hear. Having gone through similar situations with similar type doctors, I know how important the things you said are. Just to add to all you said, personal agency is so important. We have to be aware that we can decide not to put up with people/professionals etc. that don’t care about us and move on. Thanks for being brave enough to share this. Much appreciated. Cheers!

[@daveclement1744]

As a fellow videogame art director that suffered with chronic physical pain (frozen shoulder in my right shoulder followed by my left), I really appreciate hearing your story. Pain affected every aspect of life, and I too found that fear of hurting was stopping me from doing many things, and affected my mood, making it hard to be productive and positive. I don't comment often on KZbin videos, but I wanted to say thank you. I've been following you for a few years now, and your insights are always spot on.

[@phaeronika]

I wish you all the best in your healing journey. I wish you and your family nothing but love and hapiness.

[@bloke1348]

Just listening from Ireland and gobsmacked by the length of time you guys have to wait to see a GP. ( we can get an appointment in a few days). You guys deserve better.

[@whitesnake.]

Thank you for this message Adam. You're for me a real therapist who gave me my hope back and I totally understand your feelings for this doctor who gave you back yours. This lesson is amazing. And really hard to learn too.

[@AdamDuffArt]

Well the best lessons usually come from the roughest moments in your life because they expose your rawest self. I’m just grateful to have this platform to be able to share it with you Thank you very much my friend :)

[@whitesnake.]

@@AdamDuffArt That is absolutely true. Thank you too!

[@lemaartist]

Hey adam, as always, your info and insight is extremely valuable, as someone who had to endure 11 years of insomnia, a broken neck, a shoulder and a bad elbow for drawing in bad positions for too many years, intesinal issues for dealing with too much stress and a career hardship over the last 6 months, thank you, thank you for reminding me that sometimes you need to hit a certain point to deal with your shit yourself, that no matter how bad things are looking and how holpess everything feels, when you start to take care of yourself and owning your problems and doing something about in the right direction, everything can go for the better. If I could work my way through with all that stuff before, I will get through this too. Thank you, thank you, thank you, this is what I needed to hear, right now.

[@skoomaenjoyer9582]

thank you thank you! You're story is one that I'm glad I sat down to listen to, even if my distracted mind was horrified by the 41 minute runtime. My own story as it stands in the arena of Chronic Pains is nowhere near as complete, but certainly much different. Your story gives me lots of hope, even though my pains for the last months has been mental. I've had some really depressive lows after moving to a new state. I'm a young guy still living with his mom, missing his old friends. These lows have been grueling, and I've encountered some breaking points once anxiety was thrown into the mix. I had my first ever panic attack, full blown, and it turned me from a mental health skeptic into someone paralyzed by fear. It struck like giant waves, it cared not for a single thought or action of mine. It did as it wished, and the world-ending fear it invoked would leave me staring through walls while friends and family tried to console me/tell me I was fine. I used to think of mental health very differently, as an easily controllable, overreaction to feelings. That isn't the case. It only took a few weeks of reoccurring waves of anxiety before I became petrified... Convinced that I could live the rest of my life unable to connect with the world because I'd be locked in my head. Then came a few months, and the fear seeped further into my mind. I'd lost hope. I could feel oncoming panic attacks, and every technique I used to reconnect to reality would be met with no results. I'd lay awake, thinking I'd best be shipped away to a psych ward for the rest of my days, that there's no way I could feel human again, that I'd lose everything unique about myself to this frenzy of emotion. Meditation gave me time to marinate in panicked thoughts, walks reminded me of how far I was from those I miss, deep breaths dragged attention to my racing heart and mind feeling full of clutter. My mom conflated the waves of panic to "being scared of driving". During my first panic attack my brother told me "you're not having a panic attack, you're fine"... I love these people but there wasn't a single person who knew what I was feeling, how real it was, how all-consuming it was. I had a few friends who were great listeners, but I knew they hadn't felt this themselves. I was convinced that I am alone on this, and that I was broken by the first panic attack. I'd opened Pandora's box, this anxiety would live with me for the rest of time. There were breaks in the anxiety, though that only made me anticipate the lows to come, reminding me that I was playing by my mind's rules. Similarly to the final message of this video, I worked through it without "poking the bear", I worked through it with my own solution... Not the meditation, walks, deep breaths, etc. often advertised. I ran away from my thoughts. With all of the advice given on confronting your mental conflicts and untying its knots, I felt like my solution was cheating, because it worked so well. Anxious ruminations would fight this, "You're only postponing the inevitable crash! Quit running!" I ran away from those ruminations too! I can't quite describe the way in which I mentally run, because like all solutions, it's highly personal, but this fleeing is instantaneous. I've decided that the thought is worthless and then I run from it, once it's gone, I run past the doubts as well. After about 5-6 months of battling this invisible fighter, I've left a mark! Despite a few attempts at the title, I've defended my belt. Something that consumed my mind for about half a year has become child's play, even today I can feel it creeping up and without effort I give it the boot. I can't emphasize how terrifying those months were, how hopeless, how painful... I still am battling depressive lows after wiping the floor with my anxiety. Unfortunately, the way I see it, depression is the endurance fighter in the ring, preferring many many many jabs and boasting about it's iron jaw. I caught this video on the brink of depressive thoughts about my hopeless future, but your story reminded me of a victory I've very clearly claimed. Something my other feelings would have me forget. If you couldn't tell, I really like sharing this story of mine, because it makes me very proud, though it's subject matter is serious. No matter how the cards may seem stacked, there IS hope, always. Finding YOUR solution is a process that can either end up being done with common solutions or something unique. You should always direct yourself first towards the common solutions (professionals), then branch out as you discover how you differ. Thanks for reading, and thank you, Adam, for recharging my Hope Meter.

[@AdamDuffArt]

Isn’t it ironic how half of the pain you endured (if not more), was a result of the pain you forced yourself to relive because “someone” said it was the right thing to do But you had to learn through your own continued pain and failure that it was time to stop doing what the “experts” said and actually listen to what your body and mind was telling you repeatedly What you did was the mental equivalent of “not stretching the nerve causing the pain” You gave yourself a break, a much needed break Now you’ve found your “baseline” and can think and react more lucidly You can better see because you aren’t blinded by advice - you’re experiencing your raw self and learning from it You should be proud of that story, it’s a powerful and inspiring one

[@skoomaenjoyer9582]

@@AdamDuffArt so much of the "no pain, no gain" type of stuff dominated my mind. Yeah, it did bring about the majority of the pain I endured.

[@ithidril]

Thank you! Thank you Thank you! This has been a powerful message that is more than needed. Thank you for sharing your story.

[@Demention94]

Been there, and done that. I sympathize. Thanks for sharing.

[@GiannisMihelakakis]

In Greece we have an ancient greek phrase for the point of this video that is : "Γνῶθι σεαυτόν" and you read it kinda like this (Gnothi seh aphtohn) that means "Know thyself". It is written at the entrace of the Temple of Apollon in Delphi the place where Pytheia the oracle lived.We don't know exactly who told this phrase some speculate it was from Socrates first some say Plato and some say others. The point is that this concept is more than 2000 years old and yet is an incredibly difficult thing to master because it is a lonely journey through society and through yourself.For people nowadays it is rare someone has the clarity and time to think about something so basic and yet so difficult to grasp. Thank you Adam for reminding everyone of this lesson with a kind and thoughtfull manner that makes people actually challenge their thoughts at the moment the video is playing and after it is finished. Hope everyone has a great day/night.

[@AdamDuffArt]

Well thank you so much for telling me that - that only reassures me all the more :)

[@GiannisMihelakakis]

@@AdamDuffArt You have been a great help for me and many other people to cope and handle many obstacles on their art journey and life. Thank you for your insight and your view. You are a beacon for us people lost in our minds. Thank you again . Have a great day!

[@ledinobleu2653]

I feel for you, Adam, I have been there. It was in the previous century and the world was still young, but I will never forget... And I do fully agree that this cobra pose thing is complete and utter BS. Never do that when suffering from a hernia. Just never. Thanks for sharing, and do keep being careful. At our age, health just goes downhill, slowly but surely... x_x

[@J0nnyTheJ3w]

Thank you for telling this story Adam. I'm in my early 20's and already having issues with my upper back, rhomboid pain. As a 3D artist that sits a lot, it can be debilitating. I can't even exercise, the one thing that, time and time again, pulls me out of whatever negative things are going on. Arguably the 3 or 4 chronic pain is worse than those 8 or 9 days. Your brain is like your tongue when you have something in your teeth - constantly feeling it and letting you know it's there. And you just have to sit with that constant feeling and push through it, and it sucks. You can't focus. You can't sit, you can't stand or cook food or do chores without feeling it. And it's scary. It's ultimately a reminder that, while we as humans can be strong and capable of anything, we can also be fragile and weak. I finally said enough is enough and have just started physical therapy. I'm on the road to recovery, and there is light at the end of the tunnel. The best piece of advice I can give is this - put your health first. Always. It doesn't matter if you have some big project coming up or feel behind in life from your peers. You need to be on top of your health, or your work will suffer anyways.

[@denis_ds]

You are so lovely Adam. There are no words to describe what you are doing nor the words to describe how I feel after watching your videos. Keep being you.

[@himiTV]

I've had chronic lower back/butt/leg pain since I was 12. Some days it's just sore, others I do not have the ability to climb out of bed. I'm relieved to hear that I'm not the only one who walks out of physical therapy worse instead of better. I figured I've been doing it wrong all these years. (40 is just around the corner!) I appreciate you sharing these vulnerable moments with us and introducing us to something that gave you relief. I look forward to seeing what's going on at Dr. Charlie's channel. Thank you!

[@drcharliejohnson]

Hang in there! And let me know if you'd like some help/have any questions!

[@MarushiaDark316]

Thank you, Adam. Once again, your videos coming at just the time in my life when I need them. I wish you good health, my friend.

[@MOONSUN4Life]

Thank you so much for this video, Adam. I went through the same experience you described years ago and understood exactly what you were saying about the sleepless nights, the debilitating pain, the crippling fear, and the hopelessness. I was lucky enough to have a doctor who heard me and saw me when I reached out for help, and with the proper treatment, which included medication, physiotherapy, and rest, I went from needing a cane to walk, to being essentially pain-free for the last ten years. I have intuitively followed Dr. Charlie Johnson's recommendation to stop doing the things that hurt and doing more of the things that didn't hurt, and I have listened to my body whenever I felt a warning jolt of pain in my leg or tingling in my foot. The only time I had an acute episode was when I ignored my body's warnings. It wasn't quite as bad as it had been the first time, but I still needed two months to recover when the shooting pain in my leg and lower back reappeared. People who have never experienced this kind of pain cannot even begin to imagine what it's like, and I hope they never have to go through this nightmare and find out. I cannot tell you how happy (and relieved) I am that you are feeling better. I've subscribed to Dr. Charlie Johnson's channel, because I don't know when I might need to be reminded of those very simple truths: no one knows yourself as well as you do, and no one will listen to you if you don't listen to yourself first.

[@alan.smitheeee]

Thanks for sharing this!

[@MrMEMOZEEN]

... Thanks for sharing the Good Energý of this video and sharing Hope ... Needed Hope in these dark days... Everyone got their own issues and I got mine ... Thanks Buddy ... Blessings 4 U ...

[@tshoni5833]

been feeling really low the past weeks this came at the right time thank you so much 🙏

[@jessikakearns3506]

This video is exactly what I needed to hear right now. You're videos always are, even if I don't get to them right when they're new. I've ditched my physical pain for a while, but have been dealing with other pain and a lot of doubt - and it is encouraging to hear someone say that we can trust ourselves and what our physiology tells us and what our reactions tell us. More is not always rewarding. Thank you for the encouragement and the reminder. I'm glad you are feeling better. I hope you still are now, 6 months later.

[@lugiavn797]

Having 2 family members lost their ability to walk really made me fear the day I would lose the control of one if not more of my body parts. Thanks for the talk, I will use it for my future preference. Glad you pulled throught it!

[@PhilNato]

You’re an inspiration to help me to keep going. Even though I have a small, nothing art channel and barely get views, I’ll keep grinding. Thank you sir! I hope your back fully heals!!!

[@AdamDuffArt]

Don’t you worry about that for a moment - my channel was under 18k subs for over 7 years and then just took off one day (when I decided to do things my way instead of the “youtuber” way)

[@victoriaculbertson8266]

Thank you for sharing your truth❤️ praying you continue to heal❤️

[@CenitV]

last week was one of the hardest I ever had. a similar pain just as you explain happen to my back out of stress. It worry me I never had it that sharp and persevering. I always try to find a way to heal faster out of pains like that .I found the spot of relief pressing the muscles where my leg and waist connect. I feel the connection to my back just as you explain with that skeleton spine. my pain fade quickly after that but I'm still worry about what make me stress so much in first place and whats to come after this last week. thanks for your message

[@PureMolls]

Adam I understand what you're going through. I have two autoimmune diseases one of which is of the joints. I deal with chronic pain and continuing to do art is difficult. Some days sitting, standing, just being there hurts. It's amazing how much pain can squash your creative desire and exhaust you mentally. Just know you're not alone. There are so many people dealing with chronic pain and your pain is valid even though you can't see it. Find a doctor who believes you and tells you to listen to your body. Having a doctor that trusts the symptoms you're describing is SO important. I hope you find a good partner for your health. Also thank you for speaking about this and sharing your experience. It makes others going through the same feel heard and valid.

[@dieterdecuijper3841]

I can reflect with this since I have a hernia and artrose since I was 23. I am 32 now btw. My pain wasn't nearly as high as yours but I could feel the emotion comming with it. The hammer, or train as it felt to me, they hit me with telling me that my foundation of my body is damaged. I went to a point where I even didn't feeled good enough anymore to my girlfriend at that point. Simply cause the thought of her taking care for me when I couldn't move, wasn't something she had to do. Thank you for sharing your story. I wish you the best and as I'm writing this on dec 30th, I wish you the best in 2024 already. For you, your family, your health and your career. 🙏

[@lacthetomato]

Adam, when you walked out to the camera after telling such a strong story I can swear I felt a tear running down my face :") When I worked as a customer representative I truly understood the importance of all that you said, of being human, of how much somebody who's having the toughest situations needs to just be listened, truly and deeply listened. Just given a chance. The rushing of the employees and enterprises' money chasing made me notice how un-empathetic most people can become when doing their job, because it has become that, "a job" rather than 'a way' to use our knowledge and position to help those who need us, and that is what this is allllll about, how it everything even started in the first place in communities where everyone would have a place and we would all seek out to eachother. Thank you, for making it all have sense ❤ for showing so authentically and gently, for showing your humanity and inspire us who may find it hard in the world that we live in, for being a light in the dark

[@autumnsartstudio]

My mom is dealing with chronic neck pain constantly. Her doctor has told her if she doesn't get it taken care of...she could get to the point where she can't work anymore. But she's terrified of the surgery because there's a chance it'll make her paralyzed. But also, her insurance (under my dad) will probably make her pay thousands of dollars out of pocket and she can't even afford the copay anymore on the doctors visits. (my dad wont help because my parents are separated not living together) So she's not getting it taking care of because she can't afford it. So it's painful seeing her in pain all the time. She's in that terrified stage right now on what's gonna happen in a few years and how much worse is this gonna get. She wants to work and not be on disability.

[@Nicole-tx5kk]

Thank you Adam, your words have pierced the barrier of no hope. Your articulate message couldn't have come at a better time. I think you are the doctor Charlie Johnson to someone like me. I wish you the sincerest best and love hearing your thoughts in a way that resonates with me. I am sure I am not alone when thinking this. I wish you all of the best to you and the lives you touch.

[@labrabellart1380]

Your videos never fail to reach me at exactly the right time. I truly have been at my breaking point for months now, so I truly felt like your title was speaking into my soul. And then... imagine my surprise when you not only start talking about the subject that's causing issues for me, but also start talking about exactly the same kind of chronic pain I'm currently going through. I just... I can't even. This is the second time one of your videos has come to me with perfect timing, and I'm starting to think that you're some kind of guardian angel here :2 Thank you for doing what you do, from the bottom of my heart.

[@faun_fatale]

You're awesome, what else can I say? Stay strong and thank you... or also Dziękuję! :) And to everyone fighting anxiety like me, stay strong, we will find our way no matter what other people say or think.

[@UmbraTea]

I love how.. I came here for art but got the exact thing I needed more which was someone else talking about the struggle of sciatica and herniated disc's. 😩😩 I'm trying to figure out how to lose weight and at least have some muscles cuz if I'm gonna sit at my desk all day drawing I should at least fix my physical health up a little.

[@UmbraTea]

Holy shit I needed this, dude. The cobra pose always reactivated the pain and it confuses me so much like is pain healing or??? Ahh thank you for sharing this.

[@cristalebellab444]

I feel this. Keep on and thanks for inspiring us the way you do.

[@Alaaaan1000]

Always a pleasure hearing your experiences Adam. Whether it's art, body or mind. Keep them coming, and thanks 😁

[@thedrawingbard]

This doctor gave a class about why you need to be really good at what you do, but remember that each person is a particular case. Also, you can only be that good if you really love what you do, because you need to dive deeper day after day. This goes for every job, but mostly in art. We cry about not getting jobs, but most of us don't have the passion needed. Not to just endure pain, but to be consistent on the things that make us feel good while we improve our weak points. Almost no one is consistent, it's the hardest thing to do, to not change paths after every bump, to even keep doing what we like and getting better, not listening to that constant urge to try the shiny new thing.

[@Maryna_MV]

Thank you! ❤

[@lloydkuijs]

Jesus Adam, I am really sorry that you have had to experience this. I knew you had issues with your health but you seem like such a stable person I could have never guessed. I wish you the best and thank you for sharing.

[@itsalwaysme123]

This video spoke to me on such a deep level. I've been dealing with chronic pain and illness for 3 years now in several areas in my body, gone to hundreds of doctor visits with gastroenterologists and physiotherapists and cardiovascular specialists only to get fed the same information from all of them. None of it has helped. The last year of my life I've gained an embarrassing amount of weight and developed crippling anxiety where doing something as small as taking my dog out gives me panic attacks. I've felt like I was just waiting to die and there was nothing I could do about it. I don't know what has changed in my mentality in the last week. I still feel more or less hopeless, but I've made progress against my imposter syndrome and rediscovered my love of meditation. I've felt a fire light under me to not hope it gets better but to take steps toward making it better finally. I'm scared its too little, too late, but its no longer going to stop me from trying. Thank you Adam, for this video and the rest. You help me grow as an artist as a person and your content is such a joy and often such a help to me personally.

[@Alona86]

I didn't know I needed this, thank you.

[@LordMarkBrae]

Other than the time frame and the fact I have had a spinal operation this is word for word my story. I've been in constant pain now for over 5 years the pain is sometimes even too hard to even breathe with. Thank you for sharing this video, I now have a new hope and will be working my way through the Dr's videos asap xxx❤

[@isisblackthrash9293]

I’m glad you overcame your problem and found the help you needed. I recommend finding a (good) massage therapist, my MIL is a remarkable one, she treats injuries like yours reducing the recovery time by hundreds of percents.

[@annika93dk7]

Thank you so much Adam. This video was a god send to me and the way you share your story helps me a great lot! Included all of your art talks which I listen to everyday while I paint. Well I have been crying deeply throughout this video. I have suffered with anxiety and depression for many years on and off. This video loosened something and while it was painful to relive the memories from where I have been - it was very valueable to compare the past to the present and see that I can be and will be okay.. There are so many things and people out in the big world, who can help in unique ways that may sound unreliable - but could be the right fit for you or me.. Thank you again and I wish you and your family the best Smiles from Denmark

[@AdamDuffArt]

You will be fine and you will get through this Annika. You aren’t crazy, you aren’t doomed - you’re resurfacing emotional struggles now because your mind is slowly feeling mature enough to handle them Just go at your own very comfortable pace

[@annika93dk7]

@@AdamDuffArt Thank you :)

[@pamelaberry6875]

I needed this. I've been having back pain for a while now, years. I remember having that same crippling pain for 3 weeks a few years ago. Couldn't even get off the floor. Can't believe you got through 9 months of it. I was trying to move after that because thats what all the doctors were saying, but recently I started to rest. I'm usually the kind of person that always has to be doing something. It's to the point that I have to stand or lay down to do my art for school. Bending down is a gamble. This makes me hopeful that resting is the better choice. I have hypothyroidism as well and I've found the right dosage finally. It took effort to get the doctors to look into anything and about a year and half of muscle spasms and referrals to get it tested. Thanks for posting this! I appreciate your vulnerability.

[@AdamDuffArt]

Well we’ll we’ll - there’s a lot going on there… Firstly, I recommend kneeling over bending - it is an important movement to keep you from straining - particularly when doing low level reaching things, like changing a kitty-litter As well, Dr Johnson would put both of us in the same category of “over-vigilant” type. The ones who do double what the doctor asks. In the case of back injury, it’s the lazier ones (at the beginning at least) that heal the fastest - that rest is essential to finding your baseline of pain Lastly - thyroid That is imo - an important contributing factor to back issues once you realize that back problems are often as much chemical as they are physical - drinking water helps replenish spinal fluids, smoking harms and contributes to spinal degeneration - these are things we overlook because we think it’s a “bone” or “muscle” thing It’s an “everything” thing - taking care of your nutrients, supplements and hydration is equally important in healing in EVERY way, very much including your back Hold tight my friend, you’re going to be ok

[@pamelaberry6875]

@@AdamDuffArt I'm beyond words. Thank you. I have never heard anyone relate thyroid to back problems. The doctors didn't think it contributed to my muscle spasms either. I knew there was something about that because you're right it is an everything thing. I find that solutions to problems are usually quite simple. I am definitely going to be utilizing your advice. My water intake is sad. I hope all is well for you. I appreciate your channel. You're not afraid to bring up real topics.

[@ArtofWEZ]

I remember pinching my nerve and loosing feeling in half my body after sharp pain, thought I had a stroke, but it was that and a panic attack. it's been 3 years and my drawing arm is still messed up but at least got to a level where I can feel. I remember laying the bath crying of happiness when I had at least some feeling in my hand for one day on the first year.

[@fotisaradas]

I have been in the same situation as you since I was 22-23 (now 40). I've been through all the stages you've described, the shock, the fear, the immobilization, the tears, the broken life, the yoga, the exercises, the doctors... Thank you for this talk, Adam. Thank you. I'll keep looking, starting with Dr. Johnson. Greetings from Greece.

[@sougatamukherjee5987]

I am crying, thank you Adam, you are a godsend.

[@anthonylaselva4727]

if there is a demonstration of inner strength, resilience and humanity nowadays I believe this video is a perfect example of it. Thank you Adam for sharing such an intimate moment from your past, it will make many think :)

[@peanut3438]

Yeah, hope is really powerful! Have a great day btw :3 “ For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. “ John 3:16-18 (NIV) “ If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. “ Romans 10:9-10 (NIV)

[@Maximus8281]

That's so strong. Thank you. Love

[@clembb8]

Thank you for sharing your story Adam, I'm glad you've found a way feel less pain! This is such helpful advice. Even thought it takes time to be put in practice, it's common sense really, if you're in pain, just stop! Like other viewers I can relate. A couple month ago I started a journey to be healthier and lose a bit of weight. Couple months down the line I had to stop for two weeks because my feet hurted so bad, and yet I keep pushing through. I can't even walk 30 minutes anymore without hurting, my friends and family were complaining that I always walk so slow. Massages helped but it's just not enough. Last week I finally went to a super nice podiatrist who confirmed I need special soles. She's going to make them this month, I'm so relieved and much more upbeat/hopefull knowing that it's really gonna help ☺️

[@canahmetylmaz9450]

Hey Adam, I've been following you over 8 years. You were always there for me while I'm on my journey to become myself as an artist. I've been through very hard life challanges. Maybe, We never met face to face or somehow. Buy you are more than a youtuber to me, thanks for being my friend. You giving me hope about myself, about people. You inspire me not just about art and stuff. Thanks for being there as a meaningful good person, teacher, brother, friend... I felt the pain you have been through. I felt sorry for those bad times you had the deal not for your being. I wanted to help somehow but you made it to a life lesson with priceless earnings. I see you as a tight friend. As the noble wise friend. Thanks again for being there Adam, really.

[@onimanga5197]

this guy man he always knows just what to say

[@StornCook]

Wow. You are not alone. I'm not alone. I hurt my back playing pickle ball months ago. Pain in the same area, running down my leg. I'm a bit further down the path, my pain is around 2-4 on any particular day. I just started working out again, taking great care of only doing things that don't feel bad. And I'm an illustrator of several decades with very little commercial success. I was just about to give up and get a part time job doing ... something. But there was a job available this morning in my email. Not great money. But enough to keep me going a little bit longer. I've never been at the top tier of my profession... I"m the top of the 2nd tier... and that is where I truly "know thyself". So imposter syndrome? yeah, I get that. I've been trying out youtube. I refuse to try and fit an algorythm. I'm doing the videos that I want, talking about art, showing my techniques and what I've learned over decades (I'm older than you, Adam) and talking about the intersection of tabletop gaming and art. That is what I want to teach, that is what I want to talk about and if only 10 people get something out of it, so be it. I'm not going to chase the dragon. Thank you soo much for this video. And I love your other videos too. I started using a blending nub for this first time since art school, because of one of your videos. I'm loving it. Keep on keepin' on!

[@Blqnt1029]

Hi Adam, I don't know if you will see my comment but I just want to say that your videos are inspirational to an amatuer student artist like myself, and that I will keep you on my prayers that you feel better. I also had a surgery about an year ago due to the herniated disc at L-4 and L-5, and it was not fun at all. I could not draw for few 3 months and sit properly without the painkillers. And now, I am dealing with tooth pain and wisdom teeth infection which was almost equally painful as the back surgery. We as an artists and even if you are not an artist, need to take good care of our bodies first before anything else. It is better to suck at art than have your body be ruined and just being not able to do anything. Anyways, I think I talked too much. But again, thank you for this video again and I will see you again in the next video.

[@AdamDuffArt]

Man you’ve been through the trenches haven’t you - and you’re really inspiring me to do a follow-up video talking about healthy work habits - a kind of instructional video I’ve been through the wisdom tooth removal fiasco - actually a funny story that I might share one day :)

[@anakisshunter]

@@AdamDuffArt Actually Sir, I think that'd be a great idea and I hope you do it! I have seen so many videos and posts from professionals working in the industry talking about the toll drawing has had on their body because of unhealthy habits like bad posture, lack of exercise, and the like, all because they didn't know any better and had no resources online for stuff like that. So I think videos detailing healthy work habits can help out a lot of younger artists who can still integrate these into their daily routine!

[@doviart-fashiondesignersli5161]

I wish I saw this video or knew about Dr Johnson when I was confined to my bed waiting for spinal surgery. It worked, but I wish that I somehow could avoid it. Your video let me safely relive a worst nightmare of my life and realize how strong I am. In cannot believe how similar our stories are, down to not being able to walk to my car after the doctors prescribed visit to PT. Thank you for this video.

[@cyonide42000]

thank you so much for that. i love how long ur videos are

[@miguelruggiero5511]

Yesterday my uncle died very dear, for smoking cigarettes, an attack on the withering heart, I am in shock as in another dimention, reflecting on how ephemeral life is and that we do not have control over our destiny of life more if on the destiny of how to live it and this has been extremely hard but it has given me strength to value my time more my desires my passions and how important it is to live doing what that your soul asks of you, and I know that I must sacrifice myself to obtain it How hard it is to live with anxiety..

[@AdamDuffArt]

That “anxiety” is what I would call the “acute” phase of the pain - you need to rest and take it easy and let whatever feelings you have play themselves out as they may