I am Truly Shocked Watching - "Sick Boi" - by Ren

[@lisas6388]

I actually told my psychiatrist about a couple of Rens songs. I told her that in my 40 yrs of therapy that some of Rens words have given me tools that I have actually used and have been useful. I think listening to him would be a good perspective for all mental health care workers.. because he can say what at least I know I haven’t been able to express. Anyway, thanks for your reaction!

[@spellcaster7893]

I must admit that I was worried that as a medical professional you may not have been able to get where Ren was coming from, but it totally hit home to you, and that says a lot about the kind of person and in particular health professional that you are. If I was to ever need a psyc professional I could only hope it would be someone like you. Great reaction, thanks

[@nickforell1]

Thank you Spellcaster that means a LOT.

[@fourcornersofbrighton]

@@nickforell1 I thought someone on another video made an interesting point. She is offering meds before going into the patient history.

[@aalvarez2914]

@@fourcornersofbrighton some “therapists” are even worse than that. One of my friends got sucked in by a “brain scan mall therapist” a few years back, and the scan in the mall “told” the therapist they had ADHD and wet brain and needed to be highly medicated. What struck me even harder is they were saying just from their talks that therapist “knew” other people in their lives like family members had it and needed their medication too. It seemed like they thought everyone who wasn’t average needed their medication. We had to quit talking because I couldn’t handle the new insistence that we have no free will and everything is controlled by those chemicals etc. It was like they joined a new religion, but lost a spark at the same time. Conformity became king.

[@TheOnlyGhxst]

@@aalvarez2914 It's easier for people to believe everything is predetermined and out of our control, that means you don't have to take accountability or responsibility for anything. It's the reasons why religions work so well in general, it gives people an "easy answer" to every question.

[@statsnerd2080]

Please don’t listen to the people saying not to pause. Your reactions are great! I am here because I want to hear your reaction in the moment, as you are experiencing the song for the first time. I really enjoy hearing your thoughts and feelings throughout the song. You’re picking up on a lot of lyrics and meaning others have not noticed or misinterpreted. This song reminds how incredibly lucky I was to receive the correct diagnosis from the start, which had a dramatic effect on my ability to deal with the lifelong struggles.

[@kirstycoetzee7662]

I agree. This is a reaction video and we specifically chose to watch YOUR reaction, and hear your thoughts. ☺💞

[@nickforell1]

Thank you for the vote of confidence! I will continue to do them the way they feel natural to me. Appreciate you being here

[@IronRaspberry]

I agree 100% with this comment. We are here for your reaction. To those complaining, if you want to watch without pausing, watch the original video. Please check out “Chalk Outlines” “Depression”, or “Crutch” next.

[@MrsDuke95]

@Nick - if I remember hearing it correctly, I think you're kinda "required" to pause some throughout video reactions for KZbin. I don't mind it, I know some do LOL I remember hearing another reactor I watch say "I know everyone keeps saying Stop Pausing but I have to. I can't let it play through cause KZbin will take it down" now I'm not a reactor and haven't looked into the rules, but for everyone complaining about pausing can go watch the original. I want your reactions as it happening, not at the end after the moment has passed, but that's just my opinion 😂 anyways great reaction!!! Best wishes for you and your channel...

[@stevenmeyer9674]

@@MrsDuke95 I have no problem with reactors pausing, I just wish they would scroll back a bit when they restart.

[@alpharia]

I've watched a fair few of these videos and after Hi-Ren I sat my wife down to watch it and after bursting into tears she then analysed it from health professional viewpoint (Acute MH care) , she has sent emails out to so many colleagues to watch it, "Sick boi", and the "chalk outlines" one. Whereas I have been annoying my colleagues in my own firm (law) and prosecutors and judiciary I know to also see it. Every single person we have both sent it to is both awestruck and shocked and it has most definitely created a very good dialogue. I teach casually at Uni and the Mental Health law course co-ordinator is putting the songs as recommended viewing by all law students as a perspective into what humans actually FEEL like going through the system :( This really needs to get out there to everyone. (and you can feel your anger coming out - means you are a good health care professional and haven't turned full cynic yet - GOOD!)

[@nickforell1]

Thank you for the thoughtful response. I love artists who can create a dialogue just through their craft. Ren certainly does that and even for those who disagree with the message it still provides an amazing value proposition. Thanks for being here

[@christilehman-starr4428]

WOW I knew it! This performance art piece is powerfully changing the collective consciousness in a grass roots way that no other media source could. It’s a movement that is compassionate and love based. Fantastic! You are amazing!!!!!

[@Stadler24]

I'm a fellow psych nurse and really enjoy your perspective. We are always taught to "think medical" first before diagnosing someone with a mental illness. I work with geriatric patients and can't tell you how many undiagnosed UTIs resulted in a dementia diagnosis. It's so sad how people struggling with mental illness become outcasts. When I train new nurses, I tell them to never refer to a patient as "Schizophrenic" or "Bipolar". They are a "person" dealing with Schizophrenia or Bipolar disorder. Once we lose the human aspect of these people, they are deemed unworthy by society

[@RussellSummers67]

Within the ND community, there is a rather big push to remove the 'a person with'. we never say the a blind person is a person with blindness.

[@alaskayoung3413]

OMFG yes! Im an ER nurse and so many effin times we get sent the geriatric people with some crazy report and its just a dang UTI.... and ofc the facility they came from, primary care doc, or urgent care just pawned them off to us... and we knew it was a UTI by the time we got them to a room.

[@kellyradtke7662]

Exactly. I am a mother, an individual, a human being, and an incredibly gifted musician. I am also bipolar, with anxiety and PTSD. I wish more people would find it in them to resonate with the first half before simply making me irrelevant by choosing to only see my diagnosis.

[@BBRWifey]

I work at a corrections facility and I see stuff like this a lot, as well. Our nurse will not see inmates for mental illness and continuously tells us (floor deputies) to tell the inmates to use “coping mechanisms”. THEY DONT HAVE COPING MECHANISMS OR 80% OF THEM WOULDNT BE IN JAIL. It’s so frustrating, especially because I see myself in so many of our inmates. Great reaction! ❤

[@proofprof63]

Fact that you have empathy at a corrections facility makes you an angel. I wish I had you when I was put away in an involuntary ward and misdiagnosed like Ren.

[@BBRWifey]

@@proofprof63 I just don’t see how anyone can do better if the people who are supposed to help them won’t. Corrections are supposed to correct behavior by teaching healthy behaviors, and it’s just not happening. I mean, there are definitely people who deserve to be locked up… but an overwhelming majority are just put in jail because no one wants to take responsibility for our failed healthcare system.

[@proofprof63]

@@BBRWifey It's the everything system. The education system. The justice system. The police have no clue how to deal with mental health calls. That's what I see, and in my state, unfortunately, there was a whole exposé on the governor who gets kickbacks for putting people in his health systems. I know it doesn't surprise you at all.

[@DivergentRedHed]

Ooof this song hits so hard. I’ve spent my entire life in pain. I spent 20 years seeking answers in medicine. It wasn’t until two years ago at 37 that I was FINALLY diagnosed with Ehlers Danlos, Dysautonomia, Fibromyalgia and CRPS. AFTER 25 years of being told it was “all in my head” “it’s just anxiety”.

[@metgoth555]

I have eds to. I was told nothing was wronge with me and it was in my head as my knees failed and I cryed in pain being told I'm crazy till 22 when a physio finely seen I was hypermobile and she needed more tests suddly it here take these pills I had strong pain killer thrown at me. Really feel the system failed me

[@salishseamermaid]

I'm enjoying your Ren reactions. I'm a nurse as well, and appreciate your experienced-based comments on his message. I really like the parallels he draws between the parasite that caused his Lyme disease and our parasitic modern existence on the earth, and ties them both in with mental illness. ("Science tells us that it's suicide and still we commit it.") He has a special gift for communicating enormous, complex issues in the fewest, most carefully chosen words possible.

[@Alcarinque2580]

Hi Nick. Im andy, a psych nurse from switzerland. I found ren a couple days ago and via him found you. I really enjoy your thoughts and differentions and i am really happy to see that there are young intelligent and empathic people like you in our great and difficult proffession out there. I have met a lot of nurses who could... should... have to cut a slice of your approch for them selfs. Thanks a lot for this videos and sharing your thougts. Keep up the great work and all the best

[@nickforell1]

Johannes, thank you so much for sharing. Glad we have that in common. Switzerland is one of my favorite countries to visit! I'm sure you take a similar approach so I appreciate you stopping by

[@dearydarling]

Ren fans show love bc it's reactors like you that show his music love that are helping him blow up and it's all we can do to help him while he's going through treatment is keep fanning (ha) the flames of his music career so by the time he is finished in Calgary he's got the whole world waiting for him

[@nickforell1]

Thank you Deary for the heartfelt comment. I appreciate you

[@hannahday1001]

Thank you SO much for your reaction!! I’ve been so excited for you to hear this. I’ve got complex chronic conditions too. This song has quite literally given me a voice to express my frustration w the medical system (and medical gaslighting) with my therapist and my doctors. It’s WILD. I’ve never found an artist that captures my experience so perfectly. I've had this EXACT conversation with doctors before - brushing off symptoms as psychosomatic (trauma response, anxiety/depression, or “you’re under a lot of stress so that’s probably causing X”. They almost never understand that anxiety/depression are so often consequences of debilitating symptoms forcing you to renegotiate your entire future, and of regularly being dismissed by medical professionals... He captures this SO well. And the issue of poly-pharmacy is so important - i'm on 30 pills a day (to 'help' symptoms, not even 'treat' anything), and literally no doctors care about the poly-pharmacy issue THEY have forced me into... The system really is broken, and his music is far too relatable for so many of us. And those last lines hit hard too - "i'm bleeding myself, I'm bleeding my brain" - we try so hard to get better, but the amount it takes out of us is nearly unbearable in a system not built to support that process. Anyways, all that to say - this song is truly life changing, powerful, and helps shed light on the struggles those of us with chronic conditions face daily. I truly loved your reaction and your commentary- thanks so much. And never hesitate to pause and discuss the lyrics!! That's why many of us are here, we want to hear your thoughts :) x

[@nickforell1]

Hi Hannah, thank you for sharing your experience. It's so important to talk with others and I really really appreciate you taking the time to comment

[@donttreadhere]

I feel you 💯

[@MikeyPea72]

Thanks for joining us, your knowledge is important to me and I am sure many others who are not health professionals but who have experienced mental health problems themselves or with relatives/friends. And don't forget that we are here for you too.

[@nickforell1]

Thank you Michael, I think sharing our experiences with one another is important and powerful. Thanks for being here!

[@NoraMorgan]

Yes. Wow. Thank you.

[@annaspurlock439]

Check out Chalk Outlines (live), Insomnia, Depression, Power, Genesis, Crutch, and so many more by Ren!

[@NoraMorgan]

As a psych nurse, you might like Dominoes as well.

[@nickforell1]

Thanks for the suggestions Anna, I will check them out

[@morestupidforms]

Ren is a generational talent. Some of his stuff isn't my usual cup of tea, but then his range is so broad. His talent is phenomenal

[@garethpuckering1673]

Having worked in mental health for 17 years in the NHS I understand how hard life is, we need more empathy, no one wants sympathy, just understanding and to be treat as a normal human being x

[@patf8845]

Can't imagine someone thinking they're sane. And being essentially force fed medication... Welcome to my world bud. I have Lyme disease same as Ren. Between these pills and mental illness pills and pills from a work injury I have been gone for years... It's ruined my life, my marriage, my entire damn life... Getting off this garbage was insanely difficult but I noticed the smallest things that I was too "high" to not notice from my attitude to simple visual things such as noticing a bug flying around me outside. The struggles between Ren and I are uncanny and hearing this was like a hug I had been waiting for for years, from someone who understands how hard it has been... Lyme disease and mental disease is still dismissed as not being "real" and it's been incredibly difficult for many many many years.

[@jw1289]

Fantastic, sensitive reaction. I really enjoyed seeing your take on this. I’m glad you get it. Though there are hints in his previous work, this is the first time he has musically addressed his medical issues head on. First with Hi Ren and then this. It’s ironic how these songs have made his music blow up. His illness has finally given back a little of what was stolen from him. I’m looking forward to the next one.

[@jw1289]

I have to agree with another comment on this reation, REN & Chinchilla’s Chalk Oulines (live) is a must.

[@nickforell1]

Thank you JW, I'm glad you found something worthwhile in my reaction. Also, thank you for the info on details I missed! More to come

[@Veeliscious]

It's so heartening to see a healthcare professional actually "get it" and have the understanding, empathy and validation that so many of us (who have been repeatedly let down by the system and just treated like a tick box exercise (no pun intended!), palmed off with medication, gaslighting and ineffective mindlessness exercises or our experiences downplayed) wished we could have had. No wonder your channel is growing so rapidly- there are thousands of us either neglected or damaged through the system for whom Ren speaks out. I hope its not just Ren's community who are growing your numbers but your fellow healthcare professionals who need to listen to both Ren And You and take a good hard look at themselves and how they are treating us is often causing More damage than the presenting problem

[@wastefulungratfuls]

Crutch is a beautiful duet that Ren dedicates to all the people that support people through their illnesses

[@nickforell1]

Thanks Alex, its on my list!

[@Shiroar]

I second this suggestion. Such a beautiful and emotional song.

[@lonesapphire]

I've been going through Ren's videos and I appreciate your reaction on this so much! I'm yet another person with chronic illness who was told for years I was "making myself sick". I was having severe infections , bordering on sepsis, and kidney problems. I have no idea how mental health causes infectious diseases and kidney issues but that's what they tried to say. I finally learned better and refused meds. I was diagnosed for good not long after. Unfortunately two of my children were born with the same disease and one passed from it as an infant. So much pain could have been avoided if someone had just listened. The doctor that finally helped me asked how many doctors I'd seen seeking help. It was 26...26 doctors over 10ish years before someone listened. Thank you for being the kind of person who does listen. People like you make all the difference to their patients.

[@gypsydaisy]

Thanks for doing a reaction video for Sick Boi! I’ve gone down this same path, feeling like I was placed onto a medical conveyor belt with no voice in the matter. The “treatment” I’ve been given for the last 12 years ended in a deep despair which nearly ended me. I appreciate your content!

[@nickforell1]

Thank you Daisy, I'm really sorry to hear that but hopefully you've found some solace. Appreciate you being here

[@angelaprzybylski1425]

Chalk outlines next. And this was after HI Ren. Loved the reaction. You do you and pause when you need too. Just like the world needs to hear rens music they need to hear you as well. ❤️❤️

[@nickforell1]

Thank you Angela, chalk outlines is definitely next! Thanks for your vote of confidence

[@Tessimistic420]

❤️💯❤️ Agreed

[@djgriffin66]

From a 56 year old, who was 'diagnosed' with 'chronic depression' in my 20's, then agoraphobia in my 30's.... the properly diagnosed with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome/Pots at 46... while bedridden with 3 carers in UK... Rens Bardism is that deep breath... I am now mobile, married, building/living in a Tiny House in NM, creating a food forest and rearing chickens/ducks... Loving seeing how Ren is touching so many different genre's of people - he's giving us all a voice. Thank you for your reaction :) *subscribed

[@jovana_r]

Thank you for a beautiful reaction, for fully understanding the song and giving your thoughts on it. This is the song of my life during last 6 years. It's almost exactly the same thing and same story with every doctor I see. Not only psychiatrists, but all of them. I am severely chronically ill, but they either tell me it's all in my mind, or that they simply cannot help me. Just because they are ignorant and unprofessional, I have ended up being almost completely bedridden, living in 24/7 agony of pain, weakness, fatigue, brain fog... without any hope and solution left. Ren is so important for all of us with similar problems and I am forever grateful to him for his music.

[@cobblepott4169]

Great reactions. I've dealt with chronic illness my entire life and your observation of sickness supplanting identity is on point. I was really impacted long ago by a story in which there's a character called THE OLD LADY WITH THE PAIN. She deals with chronic illness, eventually finds relief, and is able to become pain free. Yet as she does so, her name changes to THE OLD LADY WITH THE PAIN WITHOUT THE PAIN. This deliberate illustration that even though the pain is absent, it's still an inextricable part of her identity, resonates strongly with me. Perhaps Sick Boi holds similar meaning for Ren.

[@donnakurtz9293]

Somewhere along the way I read something about how ran and spent many years never letting on that there was a problem or he was in pain. He did not want that to become his identity. Think of all that was the putting on a big smile. Anyway I'm not sure but I think that with him getting a record deal with Sony and then finding pretty quickly but he could not fulfill the deal due to the long periods of being in bed in pain. Once getting a lime disease diagnosis and seemingly hitting the wall and away with recording contracts you may have shifted more to his story. That's just my take on it.

[@theinvisibleneonrainbowzeb2567]

I saw your reaction to Hi Ren so I came back to see if you had looked at this. I found your perspectives on Hi Ren very on point and was not in a state to leave meaningful comments or anything. I know nobody wants to hear some random persons solipsistic pontifications but my story is not dissimilar to what I understand of Ren's 'backstory' and this Sick Boi hit me even harder than Hi Ren. The moment when he gets mad and throws the chair and the table and gets up in the womans face, honestly I have felt that emotion so strongly. Also the whole part with the line about "Basically it's your own mind making you sick" - That monologue is almost verbatim what I was told, over and over. For me one the worst things, the most heinous cruelties, is that over years and years of being told various versions of "Making it up", or "exagerrating/malingering", that I was a fraud, that somehow I was so fucked up that I was making myself ill - or not just that I was so delusional that I was making myself believe that I was sick... I got to the point where I was worn down and I started to believe them. I mean, I had no other explanation, no other diagnosis to explain things, I must be crazy right, wtf is wrong with me, how can I be causing some of these symptoms, these observable clinical results that something is always a bit off, but probably just "my normal", and "mind over matter is incredibly powerful". I thought I was going crazy, which was sending me into a different kind of mental distress. I was referred to a specialist shrink who basically treats people who, basically what the woman in this video is saying to Ren. Therapy to teach me to stop believing I was ill so that I would magically stop being ill. I'll spare you the years of being a guinea pig while they tried this or that cocktail of medications for mental health conditions I didn't have, but the drugs have paradoxical side effects that can induce what they are supposed to be treating and onwards spirals the nightmare. So I had my first therapy session with this shrink for the real fuckups. Incidentally the same day I had a letter arrive with an appointment with a specialist medical doctor, and I mentioned in the appointment with the therapist who actually told me "stop 'Dr Shopping' until you find one who'll tell you what you want. We know the answer. Cancel the appointment, I'll book you back in with me that day." I didn't cancel the appointment and I didn't go back to the therapist. Anyway, still took a bit of time but the appointment that day led to finally getting a diagnosis. Turns out it is a rare genetic condition that I have. Have had since I was born, or before. it is systemic. Degenerative. It took 3 decades to get the diagnosis and already I am paying for it from years of incorrect treatments, and not receiving treatment for the thing I actually did have. Plus the little cherry on top of complex PTSD in no small part relating to being incorrectly diagnosed for so long and how I was treated along the way. I cannot explain to you the feeling when I was at a follow up clinic about a year after I was correctly diagnosed and I asked, when will I start to feel better? The look that flashed across the nurses face, the consultant uncomfortably clearing his throat, clicking his pen and setting it down before looking at me straight on and saying "I'm really sorry, I don't think you understand. You aren't going to 'get better'. This is it. This now is the best it will be. Unfortunately you have drawn a short straw. I am sorry this wasn't explained to you sooner". That was a bad feeling, a bad day. like I was falling through myself. So basically that unreadable mess is my ineffective attempt to say that Sick Boi really resonated with me.

[@lululovlie6175]

My mom has lupus, she’s 68 now, living 30 years longer than drs thought she would since ppl with her type of lupus have never had great odds of living past 40. Before she was properly diagnosed in her early 20’s, the drs & therapists told her it was in her head & prob due to mental issues stemming from being a newly wed so young. (She’s a therapist now because of that negative experience) It took her almost dying when the fluid built up around her heart for a dr to diagnose her correctly. Songs like these & ppl like Ren help bring attention to issues with misdiagnosing & mental health.

[@Just-wiggling-thru-life]

I’m super late BUT still here. Love your reactions and binging them ALL!! Love your heart and soul. It’s truly beautiful to see you being so real. Much love from this “newer” RENegade ❤

[@nickforell1]

Thank you so much!!

[@puppenbuhnebauchkribbeln1183]

You feel it - thank you... Ren is such an extraordinary artist, his suffering is heartbreaking - his ability to put it into words makes us speechless... I'm so thankful I found him and got the feeling to watch an once in a million artist flood and move the world...feels like a RENaissance 💙👌🏼

[@nickforell1]

Thank you for putting that into words!

[@puppenbuhnebauchkribbeln1183]

@@nickforell1 Oh - thank you so much - tried very hard to find the right words he deserves, because I'm german and my english is still an experimental journey...🙃

[@crunchydragontreats6692]

Thank you for another honest and brilliant reaction to Ren. I agree. I’ve always felt that Sick Boi is a prequel to Hi Ren. They take place in the same location, same room. But they are decorated differently to indicate a separate space within that common location. (The hospital.) This is a common theatrical technique particularly for places that have a lower budget for scenery. In Sick Boi they are in the doctors office for their first consultation. (Conversation at the beginning.) The doctor is prescribing meds and giving him coping techniques. These are referenced later while in his room during Hi Ren some weeks later after he has been admitted. Grab your ketchup and crunch away my friends.

[@consentofthegoverned5145]

I didn't know how many different kinds of "react to" channels there were until I discovered "Ren - Hi Ren" today, March 26 2023. That poem/song/video is life-changing. It is a masterpiece that will be discussed, enjoyed and appreciated for centuries. I'm now prepared to be awed by more of his work.

[@KarriSimone]

I really am falling in love with your reactions !!!! Thanks for sharing yourself.

[@nickforell1]

My pleasure Karri, I'm glad you are enjoying them :)

[@adam.4487]

Oh one more. Ren X Chinchilla "How To Be Me" Live. I believe it was written after and about a friend that committed suicide. It's gut wrenching.

[@nickforell1]

Oh wow, didn't know about his friend taking their life :(

[@needfree7086]

REN is my favorite everything. I hate that he is sick, but the sickness is what helps him connect to people suffering mentally like me. Thank for reacting and spreading his message.

[@b4255]

I have been a viewer of Ren's for about a year and a half now, and I must say that a lot of it hits home. As someone from the UK, I have had to battle for my life twice in the hospital due to neglect. The healthcare system here is tragic, and I nearly lost my life twice due to their incompetence. They dismissed my symptoms as being "in my head," prescribed me medication, and then rushed me into emergency surgery for eight hours. It's frustrating because there seems to be no effort to get to the root of the problem; they just label you as "ill" or, as Ren says, a "sick boy." Despite all this, discovering your and Ren's channel has been a real treat for me, and the community here is beautiful. I appreciate having a place to turn to where I feel heard and understood. Thank you for creating a space where people can feel seen and validated

[@nickforell1]

Thank you B that really means a lot to me. I'm so glad you feel comfortable here sharing. Never hold back =)

[@crewmanderek3641]

This is by far the most interesting reaction chancel to Rens music. You’re perspective is perfect for reacting to Rens stuff! Keep em coming!

[@nickforell1]

Wow, thank you Crewman! That really means a lot, there is definitely a lot more on the way

[@wilM26]

It's because everyone relates to Ren, particularly people who have had above average mental health issues. When someone is so authentic and is able to express that so poetically and passionately, it's impossible to not relate to it! Everybody secretly wishes they could be as brave as Ren 💖

[@michelledorrough3676]

I have come to love Ren and his voice on mental health. As a nurse and a person who has personally dealt with mental health issues both with myself and family members his words hit home. Your commentary on this video and his Hi Ren video are incredibly insightful and spot on. Thank you for sharing Ren and your own voice! I can tell you are one hell of a nurse and Id be honored to work with you or have anyone I know in your care. Much love, A fellow human

[@nickforell1]

Michelle, thank you so much for sharing. Honestly, Ren is such a legend. He’s given a voice to many

[@davideastham]

Your reaction was very much appreciated. There is another song that I would love you to react to. Very few have done so and I think it is a diamond that is always missed in his catalog of great songs. It's called 'Crutch'. He wrote it after may trips to the emergency room with a nervous breakdown in 2015 / 2016. He went through some really tough times before he had his stem cell transplant. Almost 10 yrs of being misdiagnosed while Lyme disease was eating away at him. In my opinion, the song could be in a movie it's that good. It's strong and powerful with a beautiful beginning medley.

[@nickforell1]

Hi David, thanks for the kind words. I'll get to crutch as I'm addicted to this rabbit hole..

[@fanofvann]

No one better to do a reaction for this. Thank you!

[@kyrasdaddycc]

Having grown up with cPTSD and depression, along with ADD (I didn't have the hyperactivity), due to a number of childhood traumas, I have found that works like what Ren does with this song are incredibly important, and they speak to us. I don't now, nor have I ever claimed to be any kind of medical or psych professional, but I have learned much in my time. The biggest thing is something that Ren speaks about in this video, and it's that so often instead of digging to get to the bottom of the why, we simply decide to treat the symptoms with medication or drugs. We place a bandaid on an open wound infected with gangrene and call it good, all the while we continue to deteriorate...

[@madcat528]

I'm so glad his music is getting out. He is a genius!!! Great reaction!

[@kevinsteele8874]

Ren's song "Freckled Angels" is about one of his good friends that committed suicide.

[@yungcharlied]

I am 40 years old. I have had some medical issues since I was about 24. I would go to the hospital ER consistently bc I was suffering in pain, getting debilitating migraines, and a list of other symptoms that seemed to be all over the board. The answer was always the same, a drug test bc they assumed I was a drug seeker, and then they say they can't find anything. I got so depressed and started talking to a therapist. The therapist looked me dead in the eyes and said she believed that I was deceptive and lied about most things. About 10 years later I started developing severe psoriasis covering 80% of my body. Finally, it was discovered that I have an autoimmune disorder. I am still fighting for a proper diagnosis and treatment. Chronic illness is difficult bc it's impossible for others to understand the disability when they can't see it.

[@123mountaingirl]

Thanks for another good reaction. I appreciate your perspective with your knowledge as a Psych Nurse and your knack for understanding lyricism/rap. Makes for a good fit for diving into Ren’s diverse catalogue. I’m here for it! Oh, and I’m also enjoying watching your journey into H Mack too! 🙌🎶

[@nickforell1]

Well said! I'm glad you're enjoying my perspective it means a lot. Hope to see ya around

[@danatowne5498]

It isn't only when all people see is your illness, it is also when nobody can actually SEE your illness that cuts. You have a good heart. I'm an artist (nothing like Ren is) but it isn't until people realize that pretending the world is a sane place is an insane act will anything actually change. I thank God this man's time has come.

[@CD-qr7ec]

You and your level of understanding and genuine sincere empathy is amazing and beautiful. Need more health professionals (mental health and other wise) who are like you. Who really listen.

[@FrugalShave]

Pausing is part of reacting. When I want to listen to the whole song, I go listen to it. When I want to hear what you think about a song, I come here to watch you react and talk about it. Great job, keep it up.

[@kurtz260]

Man you pause it as you are passing on insight and sharing experiences. Thats what a reaction video is. I appreciate your approach, people that want to hear it uninterrupted should go to Rens video (we all should anyhow and leave a thumbs up to support him). Thanks for the video

[@donttreadhere]

I have to admit this is one of the few songs that I have really "heard". Yes, I have listened to it. It may be bc it hits a little too close to home being exploited by the medical community first half of my life and then ignored for the next 20 yrs by then. Yes, they (drs) "force meds" on you and if you don't take them you're considered noncompliant. I'm so happy for him. I hope that he gets more recognition for his music. I DIDN'T KNOW HE LOST HIS RECORD DEAL🥹🥹🥹 Thank you for continuing to share his work ❤️

[@bobclark1594]

You need to react to the Trilogy...Jenny, Screech and Violet, in that order...these highlight his incredible storytelling ability.

[@surprenant52]

I know its been aaid b4 but dont change ur atyle of reactions if they dont want pausing they can watch the original...we come here for ur comments and insights! Keep up the good work 👏 ❤

[@cherylrobbins715]

I’m so glad you’ve joined us. I’ll be with you to hear your responses to REN’s music. You are thoughtful!

[@nickforell1]

Thank you Cheryl, appreciate you being here to watch as I go!

[@Rad_Radster_Experience]

Wow! It's so impressive hearing the brutal honesty from someone involved in the mental health field and even more impressive is your openess to the flaws of the current mental health system. You will be suggested by some to do the trilogy of Jenny and Skreech which showcases Ren's storytelling and fabulous guitar playing, but if you are to continue on the mental health issues then I would highly recommend (the live versions are a must) Chalk Outlines , How to Be Me and CRUTCH....you'll fully understand these beautiful and therapeutic songs. Thanks for your input it means a lot to many of us. Great work!

[@cas9065]

Also diazepam!

[@laurenchapman8821]

Ren also suffers from PTSD from all the f'd up doctors. I really like and can relate to him. I love your reactions also!🙂

[@nickforell1]

Thank you Lauren I can only imagine. Appreciate you being here!

[@dougoneill7266]

Lovely reaction mate. I'm sure now that you get why we love this bloke, he is a very special talent. Ren is so much more than his illness. a lot of his music is mischievous and tongue and cheek. ultimately uplifting. he can do soul, Latin, dance, rap, ballads. sometimes all in one song. he is, with his the band 'The Big Push' a brilliant busker. in short, a class act.

[@christilehman-starr4428]

You forgot reggae mate His reggae styling is incredible It really brings the sweet spot in his range

[@StantonMoira]

Brilliant video. Freaking brilliant. Your reaction was the best!!!

[@nickforell1]

Thank you!! 😁

[@annspicer2786]

Thank-you very VERY much for your psych-nurse flavoured review - it is much appreciated -- I wanna reach through my PC screen and hug Ren (and you!)

[@nickforell1]

Glad it was helpful! Hugs make everything better

[@lisamayreed6399]

Just saw this work of art from ren for the first time here...so familiar. Amazing. Ty so much for embracing his truth and being willing to be compassionate.

[@nickforell1]

Thank you Lisa, Ren is absolutely a great force in this world. I have two other reactions if you're interested

[@andrewlaw]

My father is 77yrs old and suffered from manic depression and schizophrenia since his mid 20's. My hardest memory of visiting him in mental institutions after being sectioned were wards just like this. Cold, damp rooms with no windows, paint peeling off the walls and patients shuffling around talking to themselves and one man standing against the wall in the crucifix position who thought he was Jesus. The wards have got better over the years but the treatment unfortunately hasn't improved much at all. My father was subjected to shock treatment five times to "correct" his thought patterns. Of course it never worked, all it's done has left him more scarred with more bad memories. It's so sad that people to this very day are going through the mental health system and nothing has been learned.

[@sicmuvva11]

Chalk outlines is when he did go into psychosis and is singing about the drugs the live version with Chinchilla is beautiful.

[@Microplancakes]

I agree!!! It's like the world has been waiting for him! He has taken so many people by storm, it's incredible!!! I really enjoyed watching you respond to this song/ video!! (Omg! Lol!! Because you said you're a psyc nurse, I had to question my last sentence, as to whether it sounded creepy or not!! Hahaha! I didn't mean it to be creepy so I left it in, and really found it funny!!)

[@eileengarcia7923]

Ren is my new favorite artist! He has found his way in life!!! Artist of the year!!

[@Jonz808]

Ohhhh I can relate to being misdiagnosed or having my chronic illnesses being downplayed by other issues. Doctors put me on medications that messed up my central nervous system and labeled Bi-polar. Then most recently, a therapist said it was not Bi-polar but a combination of Autism and ADHD. What?! Then before that, my Gastric issues were downplayed as a bad diet, stress, or "all in my head." It was Ulcerative Colitis/Inflammatory Bowel Disease and very recently, IBS pain. Now, my body is feeling pain, tingling and numbness and possible nerve damage that was hidden by the GI issues. I feel connected to REN!

[@nikita8370]

Great reaction, really liked hearing your perspective on this one. And you caught quite a lot. Been binging Ren reactions, this one's solid. Please, do pause and share. We're here to hear what you have to add. Subbed for more:) Also, based on this reaction, I think you'd have a unique experience on twenty one pilots, too. They're phenomenal. Mental health is a predominant theme with awesome lyricism, beats, and musicality. Car Radio and Ode to Sleep are great places to start. Def checkin' out more of your reactions, man! |-/

[@nickforell1]

Thank you Nikita, I'm really glad you enjoyed. Twenty One Pilots is now on my radar. Stick around :)

[@nikita8370]

@@nickforell1 perfect! Can't wait :)

[@stuarthannay3370]

That was the most eloquent breakdown of this track I have heard. Many thanks

[@nickforell1]

Thank you Stuart, that means alot!

[@christilehman-starr4428]

Beautiful reaction nick. Your insights are deep and your feelings just as much so. Drugs are pushed on people, or given as though they are the best or only answer. My adult child who said they never wanted to do drugs or alcohol is now on three prescriptions for anxiety and panic attack. My other adult child went to street drugs. Chose homelessness to do them eventually I got his ashes back miraculously. A lot of moms never get closure. Ren gives us hope. He is a shining light. I have been watching so many reactions and I read the comments Many people say they can relate to him like no other. I’ve read…. “I’ve never felt so heard and seen”. You are right, he found a niche where he can address mental health by frequency. And this gives relief. And it creates community which fosters a sense of belonging. I think it’s part of a collective healing if you ask me This is a positive movement. It’s love over fear. Drugs can’t do that I’m afraid. Only humans in connection with other humans Bless you 🫶🏼🌺can’t wait to see what else you find to react to🦋❤️‍🔥 Music is medicine

[@nickforell1]

Thank you Christi, really sorry to hear what you've had to go through.

[@kellyf6513]

Thank you for adding the perspective of the medical professionals and the insightful commentary and confirmation of how many doctors think and react. Check the boxes, give the meds, make big pharma richer. I’m glad that there are people out there like you in the field.

[@nickforell1]

Thank you Kelly, glad you feel that way :)

[@fumblingtowardsanity22]

Great reaction. A little too “pausey” lol but I’m here for it. You got a new Renegade subscriber here.

[@NanaM1984]

Love your thoughts! ❤

[@nicksmith8302]

Great reaction new Ren friend... ❤ You're going to love Money Game and Jenny and Screech and What Went Wrong, etc. All top shelf observational art like the last two... Please keep'em comin'! 😁 A Ren a day, keeps the noose away! ❤😎✌️

[@danielharry1075]

Pause when ever you feel so as we want to hear what you think. Besides it's your channel. I really connect with you as you actually get it straight away.

[@WoodlandT]

“Losing patience with the process” or “Losing patients with the process,” is a very clever double entendres. Whether it was intended to be or not, idk. But it works beautifully

[@imSchneckenhaus312]

I just came across your reaction and appreciate your perspective. As a psychologist, I find myself wondering how many people with physiological issues are misdiagnosed in this system every day. And how horrible it must feel to be physically sick and not be believed, not be listened to and not be treated for it, or be treated in a wrong way that will not help or even harm you. I've come to wonder if diagnoses like somatoform/somatization disorder are even a real thing, or if that's just patients who really are physically sick, but could't get a correct diagnosis. And I've wondered how many misdiagnosed patients I have met, believing they had some mental health issue because someone previously diagnosed them with it, and treating them for it even though it felt "wrong" somehow. Definitely a deep and powerful message by Ren.

[@nickforell1]

Thank you so much for your insight. I’ll definitely ponder that as well. Ren has really shone a light on mental health and how it’s handled.

[@ambercimburek6872]

Right now I'm going through stuff like that again which is disabling me to the point I had to take a break from school. I'm still fighting for my needs being met by my physicians. I've been in a deep depression since August because I'm constantly physically sick and in and out of the hospital. I just want my life back. I'm 45.

[@oska333]

Love this one! They’re almost all “one-shot takes’’ by the way…😳 and “The Tale of Jenny & Screech (full)” might even be better, it’s three songs that are completely intertwined you need to listen in order: Jenny’s Tale, Screech’s Tale, and Violet’s Tale, Ridiculously good they are hard to describe but unforgettable… If you want to hear how ridiculous his voice is, one of his best songs is “Chalk Outlines”

[@lindatucker1407]

I agree with you completely . I can't get enough of Ren . He is a genius.. I wake up hearing his music in my head. I started listening to Ren around the middle of December when I was in a dark place and he was right on time . He couldn't sing it if he didn't live it..Why didn't his music get to the U. S. sooner. Hope his music gets placed in a Movie for the world to see. He has definitely earned it ...I also love Chalk out LINES ... I follow him and pretty much know his life history . I wish I could go to the U. K. and see him. I'm 65 year young and had my mother in law that is 90 years old listen to him and she absolutely LOVED REN ...I will definitely go see R E N when he makes it to the U. S. 👍

[@jukeboxdave6026]

Hi my friend great reaction chalk outlines live ren x chinchilla it's absolutely beautiful and another great story many thanks love and respect from the UK 👍👍👍👍👍👍🌟😀😀 amazing channel 👍

[@nickforell1]

Thank you so much 😁

[@Shiroar]

Great reaction. I’m not surprised at how emphatic you are considering what you do for a living but it’s still beautiful to watch how much you felt for Ren as he’s telling his story ❤ As you say, it’s great that he has found a way to get his voice heard, but what’s maybe even better is how many people are discovering him now and want to listen. Ren has not just found an outlet but he is connecting to people. That much is clear considering how crowded it’s getting down in the Ren rabbit hole. Glad to see you join us ❤

[@ellieandthetorts]

Ive had thyroid cancer on& off since 11, & its been incurable 26. I never thought id make it to 30 & had been told much earlier on Id be lucky to make it to 25. Then at 30 thinking it was incredible id made it that far I was diagnosed with epilepsy, which turned out on my 39th birthday to have been misdaignosed & was non epileptic seizures from axiety caused by suppressing & ignoring my mental health for years. Coming off those epilepsy meds that never worked (which inevitably meant they would just crank the dose up rather than look at the issue) led me to live under a cloud for my entire 30s. & that then led to a million other complications. If nothing else getting a new neurologist has given me a kick up the arse to at least try to get some semblance of a life. Having someone like Ren put all this sh*t into words means more than I can say. Even if different issues it has meaning for anyone with chronic illnessess that just wont sod off

[@jojomerriott3108]

Great reaction welcome to the Ren rabbit hole ENJOY HE IS AMAZING

[@nickforell1]

Thank you and I can't wait!

[@PeteFindsObscureStuff]

Pause away my friend. You have a great insight into this song and I enjoy your commentary. Keep on being you!

[@nickforell1]

Thanks for listening and being here :)

[@AChickandaDuck]

As a fellow Lymie, I relate to this so much

[@kathistoops1012]

Hi Nick, I am another true Ren fan. I really enjoy your reactions to his videos. I think he is a true genius, he has it all, the words, the music, the vulnerability, and the ability to connect with so many people, including me. Lots of his stuff resonates so deeply in my heart and soul. I too, have suffered with physical and mental illness. Failed and also helped by the system. He makes me cry, I feel his tormented body, mind and soul. He also has some amazingly smart rap videos that will make you think and also smile. Listen to everything you can find. He can do anything, literally. I wish so much for his treatment to work so he can finally feel well. I am glad to have found your channel, you have a unique perspective and I enjoy listening to you. 🫶

[@rastagirlnz]

Enjoying your take. ... if I wanted to watch the song back to back I can... I really like to hear your views...one love frm New Zealand

[@vickyterry3150]

I just noticed that she's reading a script--certain mental health professionals all saying the same thing, following the same script. Your reactions are really good, Nick! Thanks.

[@melancholypanda2130]

Thanks for the reaction, I've seen a lot of Ren Reactions and really appreciate your perspective as a worker in the Field. I hadn't before thought of how he perceives they way people see him. When all anyone knows about you is a sickness or illness, its hard to break from that. It sure has made some incredible inspiration for him to draw from. Please do keep going down the Ren rabbit hole. The tale of Jenny and Screech (full version) is a trilogy and master story telling. Also, thanks for the work you do, it may be thankless a lot of the time, but it is important and it does matter to those who truly need it.

[@nickforell1]

More on the way, especially the trilogy :)

[@donnakurtz9293]

minute 3:38.. the moment you won me over completely. I have been listening to Ren and Reactions by all sorts of people .. weirdly I can't get enough. Seeing people discover. All levels of "getting it" though. I saw youro Hi Ren and felt your profession definitley gave a good foundation to comment..and it was. BUT I stopped by as I saw you did this as well as the next one that I just listened to the original for the first time "Chalk Outlines". Anyway. I stopped cold at this point to come and give you a big hug and shake your hand ... or whatever the appropriate reaction is. You had already clearly stated that this was how so often it is.. being talkeed at .. ill and having someone read (basically) what they have. What is wrong with you. Not what to do. But the moment you stopped and said "Your mind is making you sick. And what you have is Lyme disease. ((( Long meaningful pause ))) "Failure of the System" ... YES! In a nutshell. YOU GET IT. Thank you so many are blown away and are starting to see and processing but are not really sure what is going on at that point. You are dead on.

[@mrbombastic2485]

Rarely in my life has a talent like this come along. Im all in here.

[@HiKorey2]

Your reactions are dope, and I've been dealing with some random bad and first times in hospitals for last 5 months or so. Great care, great staff, at least when I was aware or not in insomina states from all. Stuff like this hits home because I make music and plat producer and grammy nom'd and lost but all that, and just I never have been really in one. ER Dr's are very dismissive, but its the system of if you won't die in 24 hrs get out. I was stuck there for a while admitted all tests, but nurses and and people are incredible. Not all medical staff at all by any means are all bad, but I even had some awful experiences in this new found short time in and out or staying. At the least its reassuring or less scary to know there's a chance to run in to someone like you vs someone the hospital fired and offered all free for me to not risk a lawsuit and all. I'd say most are great honestly, even with bad experiences. But your insights and care you probably are a great staff member period.

[@nickforell1]

Thank you for sharing Korey, I really appreciate the honesty. Appreciate you.

[@NZWozza]

Easily one of the best reactions I have seen to this song. Also in reactions people don't pause, people say to those people to pause. So just do what you want as you will get comments to do the opposite either way. Personally I think it's good to pause so you can analyse your thoughts instead of forgetting them. I watch the official Ren channel when I just want to see the vid.

[@nickforell1]

That is such a compliment thank you for the confidence :)

[@Fossie_D]

Another excellent video. I can't wait to see you react to more Ren

[@nickforell1]

More to come! Thank you Dan

[@Prgy4538]

Honestly I think being dropped by his label was the biggest blessing in disguise. He is free and had nobody tell him he can’t say that, and look what happened? The world has heard ren.

[@nickforell1]

Yes, now with platforms like youtube, who needs a record label? Keep your freedom!

[@wendyshadden8732]

He has so much more in his catalogue. So just fun some with deeply felt and needed messages. I highly recommend Ren XChinchilla chalk outlines. Another incredible performance with an important message by 2 extremely talented artists. I am very interested in your opinions on this one as well.

[@christopherwright9144]

Your reacrtions and perspectives are amazing. You pause the music however often you want. This is your reaction. If I just wanted to hear the song, I would listen to Spotify. I am listening to you because I want to hear your thoughts on the music. You are doing a great job. Keep it up.

[@nickforell1]

I appreciate that Christopher, it really means a lot!

[@kirstycoetzee7662]

I knew you'd love Sick Boi 😏😏😏

[@kirstycoetzee7662]

Just gonna reply to myself here 😁 Nick, I can't wait for you to continue down the Ren Rabbit Hole, from which none of us has yet returned. I think you'd appreciate the songs Chalk Outlines, I Forgot How to Be Me (so chilling!); Money Game Part 1 and Part 2, Ocean, and Depression. (which is perhaps the hardest one of Ren's to hear, for me personally).... and wow, there are actually even more that are worth the time! Appreciate your channel, your sharing of music, and the message of mental wellness! ❤

[@nickforell1]

Thank you Kirsty, thanks for showing up and giving me a shot! I am having such an incredible time with Ren so there will be more on the way

[@shelleybelly66]

I very much appreciate your informed input. Thank you.

[@nickforell1]

Glad it was enjoyable!

[@susanachurion6105]

Thank you for giving this attention. Sadly Ren's experience is not as unique as we think. I also have an autoimmune disease and his experience resonates with me because of all the gaslighting from doctors, or straight up "it's all in your head", take these pills, go see your pain management specialist and do the required psychological counseling where they tell you how your life is going to be different and you have to accept it as your "new normal." It took me 6 years to get a diagnosis of a rare autoimmune disease called Dermatomyositis, when I was initially told it was just fibromyalgia and I had to deal with it. I also had female OBGYNs tell me my excruciating uterine pain was just "something to deal with monthly", all my life. Turns out when a doctor finally listened they found out I had adenomyosis and endometriosis and I had a pool of blood in my abdomen every month that was causing the cramping. I had endometrial tissue on my bladder, bowels and abdomen. No one listened. All of that fighting, that insistence that you're not crazy, you ARE experiencing these things, is exhausting. The depression and anxiety as a result are crippling. Thank you for listening as a medical professional. Thank you for getting it. And thank Ren for giving us silent sufferers a voice.

[@MR201]

I really appreciate your way of reacting! I love that it feels like exploring the text again with you, since you take so much care of his words.

[@riulin96]

Don't worry that the journey could be done soon. If you've listened to every stuff of Ren there would still be a lot music of him with his band "The Big Push" or the things with "Trick the fox" Haha From Ren-Solo project I would love to see Humble and "Crutch" too. Crutch has really still attention yet, since it's one of his older songs. Just a really few reactions to it at the moment available. But it turns the view to the partner/dependants who accompany the people with mental illness. It's soooo underrated. Pleaaaase give it a chance

[@MalcolmMXTaylor]

A great reaction and is good to see more and more people appreciating his music and artistry!!