Welsh Psychology Professor Blind Reaction to the INCREDIBLE Sick Boi by Ren

In what is my 2nd video, I do some sort of psychological reaction and analysis of @RenMakesMusic song Sick Boi.
A few things to note:
1. This is what popped into my mind when watching the song. It may not be what popped into your mind, and it may well not map onto what Ren himself meant when writing the song.
2. These are my views perspectives. They are not 'the truth'. It's okay if you think differently about things. We can still be friends.
3. I said in the video I'd put a link to my previous video and my sons KZbin videos and so here they are:
• Psychology Lecturer An...
• Beating my Dad at a tr...
Okay, thanks everyone, and I hope some of what I've said makes sense.
Nic
Ps My apologies for the fingerprints on my laptop. I lay blame fully at the door of my 7 year old.

[@elenaorujev3494]

Ren was definitely told that his issues were all psychological, while they were actually caused by his undiagnosed Lyme. As a psychologist, I completely agree with your viewpoint.

[@nichooper7]

Yea I'm learning of that context. And that context would be enough to prompt psychological troubles in anyone. Thanks loads for the comment!

[@jenjenjen2222]

“I’m a KZbinr now” 😂 love to see it. Welcome back Dr. Nic. 💜

[@nichooper7]

Thanks Jen : )

[@shannonstradford6518]

That really gave me a chuckle too ❤

[@MikeyPea72]

Nic what you are doing with this KZbin channel is very important. I'm sure that many of your viewers like me have been drawn into Ren's world and the associated mental issues without really having any idea of what the clinical issues really are, we are amateurs. What we have realised is that there are a lot of viewers of Ren who need empathy and support and that is what we have tried to bring to the table. The more input we have from the professionals (there have been others who have made valuable contributions) the better able we all are to provide the right support for fellow viewers who are grappeling with serious issues. Thank you for your efforts.

[@nichooper7]

I really like your sentiments here Michael - the idea that people within a particular community (in this case Rens community) look out for each other. Makes my heart swell a little bit actually, the humanity of what you said. I'm really happy to have done something that you think might be useful to people in that community. Nic

[@sharis9095]

After being mis-diagnosed for over 10 years Ren (being told everything was psychological) was diagnosed with Lyme's. During those 10 years he was probably given every type of drug with lots of side affects. He mentions being a stem cell poster boy because that was the procedure that finally gave him some relief. Ren is currently in Canada undergoing treatment again. The length without treatment has left him with long term damage. I can't imaging the courage to start a new treatment that they've told you will get bad before it gets better, when you are finally feeling at least a bit better after years of suffering. It has given him a unique perspective - but he still seems to have hope. My favourite Ren video is ... Crutch with Bibi. It's about Ren's fear that his illness will drive everyone away. Yet it is so beautifully done. kzbin.info/www/bejne/aZimY56na6pog9E

[@nichooper7]

Thanks for giving me that insight Shari. I'll watch that video keenly with what you said in my mind.

[@Candlerush]

Nic - you must do Ren’s “Chalk Outlines” - further validation of exactly what you are saying!

[@nichooper7]

Thanks Steven, that song seems to be coming up again and again in the comments.

[@nichooper7]

@@aNomadicSasquatch Okay, I'm going to go on record right now to say that I'll do something for chalk outlines! I keep trying to be non committal with this stuff but your comment has made me want to commit!

[@sketchtherapy1218]

I love chalk outlines

[@amandacollins2854]

Ren was diagnosed with bi pola disorder along with other things and he had Lyme disease for 8 years increasingly worse year after year. Thats a very long time . He spent nearly all his youth lost to illness. ❤

[@nichooper7]

Lost to illness but rich in wisdom. Those experiences are rubbish for him but the silver lining that has come out of it is this music, which will help lots of people.

[@ChrisLawton66]

*misdiagnosed with bipolar disorder and medicated for it while compounding the damage done from the undiagnosed Lyme disease for eight years resulting in psychosis and then ptsd from believing that the medical professionals treating him at the time knew what they were talking about.

[@annebiebrich9155]

He is still getting treatments...now in Canada ! He had stem cell transplant in 2016 that saved his life before Lyme disease took it , and all because it went untreated for so long

[@nichooper7]

@@ChrisLawton66 Tragic.

[@rbbea]

He was also misdiagnosed with ME/CFS. The last verse of his latest of his latest release (Illest of our time) contains the following lines, “Living with depression is a blessing in disguise Never second guessing, intuition getting wise”. I thought that was interesting

[@rebeccarose7405]

Please, please do more Ren (Money Games #2), but I would love to hear you do other things too. I am learning so much from your analysis!

[@nichooper7]

Thanks Rebecca, the encouragement really does matter to me.

[@allybandy3047]

I am so glad I subscribed even though you said not to in the first video, otherwise I might have missed this. Your insights are spot on and very relatable. I struggle so much during doctor visits because it is physically draining just going to them. After 19 years with autoimmunity (Meniere's, Hashimoto's, Scleroderma) I know what I can and can't do. The only reason they call me in is for a drug test so I can stay on the diazepam (that makes it possible for me to walk without falling). I end up feeling like a criminal in my own body. Still, they want more tests and poking and prodding. All of this in turn makes me weaker than the previous visit. So I sit there nodding while inside I am screaming "Why aren't you listening? You are causing me pain, you are hurting me." I have a feeling you would get a lot out of Ren X Chinchilla 'Chalk Outlines', as would your students and 90 other subscribers. Thank you for coming back!

[@nichooper7]

Thanks Ally. Rubbish to hear of your experiences at the doctors but very believable. I think that was one of the most powerful messages of this video, the disconnect between patient / client and practitioner. Not sure what the future holds but Chalk Outlines sounds good!

[@kerricrawley6864]

I have been diagnosed with Bipolar/anxiety. My gallbladder. Didn't know. Found out when I was told to push through, which had caused organ failure. They blamed it on my diet, social drinking, heartburn and exuding myself. You speak the truth BC I see others do worse, however my body is different. The pain I endured equals labor X's 10. Spent now 11 years. IT IS NOT worth it to think I don't want to be close BC ACUTE attacks . He gives me a voice. When he says the earth gave us everything we need... the valuable minds that can give an EXCELLENCE, not perfection, to humanity, insists an instance of building a TRUE creation vs Idolization for what is meek. In physical war we'd lay down . Being neglected for the point of created feelings are still hurtful and are not valued. To go through the system being rich, to poor and the high middle class, MY underling issue were not and still not met/addressed. It takes just 1 breakthrough and the agony will cease however not forsaken

[@nichooper7]

Sorry to hear about your history here Kerri but thank you loads for your input. Nic

[@kdavidreeves]

Glad you came back for another reaction to Ren. Societal issues - you must see Money Game Pts 1 and 2. For sheer story telling power (bardic delivery of a horror story) see Jenny and Screech the full trilogy. Thought provoking analysis and it was interesting to hear your interpretations of Ren's video. For me he is a genius and his use of words is amazing; he is also a very fine musician, see any of his collaborations for this.

[@nichooper7]

Hey David, yes I agree about the genius and his musical abilities. I'll take a look at those videos in time, and perhaps do some sort of analysis. Thanks for the steer. Ps I've watched the first minute of Jenny and Screech and found it so interesting I decided that I would come back to it at a point when my 7 year wasn't nagging me to play Minecraft with him : )

[@NoraMorgan]

@@nichooper7 Wow. After watching your amazing analysis, I really want to see your reaction to Money Game 1 and 2 as well. I really want to hear your thoughts. I subscribed in the hope that you will but I look forward to your other videos as well. And, I heard you about not really holding ambitions for it… I hope you will anyway. 😊

[@nichooper7]

@@NoraMorgan Thank you! I really appreciate your thoughts!

[@UTube-gi1ct]

Wow … thanks for that! The louder sound you mentioned works both ways. Hearing and understanding are different things. They are talking against each other but not together. And the more you tell a doc that nothing of his meds or treatments work the more they wanna tell you that your brain is the Problem.

[@nichooper7]

Yea, I totally agree. The best therapists I know are brilliant listeners, and that reduces this problem. Thanks for taking the time to comment!

[@SarahWatchesStuff]

Watching this led me to watching your analysis of Hi Ren, which I admit to have been skipping due to it's length and thumbnail. Both of these have given me hope that maybe I can be ok. I've been feeling entirely broken and in a very dark place and now I can look into a modality that resonates with me. Thank you! 💜

[@nichooper7]

Hey Sarah, firstly, I get that my Hi Ren analysis is long but what the flip is wrong with the thumbnail?!!!! : ) Glad you found use in them. Next place for you possibly would be The Happiness Trap by Russ Harris. Great starter book into ACT. My book (The Unbreakable Student) is also an easy read that might be useful as you start the journey into this. Let me know how you get on. Ps Sorry to hear you've been in a dark place. You're not broken though. Just human.

[@SarahWatchesStuff]

@@nichooper7 😅 The thumbnail reminded me of a lecture slide from a boring professor. You seem like the opposite of that as I would've loved to have attended any of your lectures. Thanks for the recommendations, I will definitely check them out!

[@nichooper7]

@@SarahWatchesStuff Lol that made me laugh out loud! Im gonna have to figure that out!

[@sketchtherapy1218]

If you want to see him truly sing like an angel watch "Chalk Outlines" by Ren & Chinchilla LIVE (he uses a hallways for natural reverb) it's about self deletion, depression, addiction, over prescription & how the cure to adiction they say is always another prescription or "How to Be Me" by Ren & Chinchilla LIVE, it's about a friend of Ren who self deleted himself on the bridge where they sing.

[@nichooper7]

Thank you - I am going to looking into those videos!

[@bethosbornefischer3315]

Wonderful to see you doing more! You need to check out Ren's songs Diazepam and Chalk Outlines--both deal with Ren's experience with specific psychiatric medications. Another thing that hasn't really gotten brought up in this conversation is the difference between Neurodivergent thinking--in this case, the fact Ren is an ADHD neurotype--vs. Neurotypical thinking. Those of us who are Neurodivergent, whether ADHD, Autistic, or other neurotypes--frequently "don't fit" (or feel like we don't)--because we can't overlook things that neurotypical people not only overlook frequently, but which they actively try to hide from themselves. I will say, as someone who's has family with Bipolar with psychotic features--it's literally been a life-saver, but we need to be learning more about how meds work before we throw them out like aspirin. Without a much better understanding of how our brains actually work, and differentiating environmental causes from biological ones.

[@nichooper7]

Yea I totally agree Beth. Sometimes people think that I'm anti meds but that's not the case. I'm anti meds being given out so freely in the absence of sufficient evidence of whats causing the problem in the first place. Interesting point about neurodivergence. I have to say though, as some who doesnt identify as neurodivergent, that I really struggle to overlook things that many people overlook. Maybe it is just an awareness thing, or the fact that Im into psychology, that makes me want to talk about this stuff out in the open. Thanks loads for the comment!

[@sammyd8860]

Thoughtful analysis - thank you. If you do fancy looking at some more Ren, his songs Diazepam and Chalk Outlines (live version with Chinchilla) deal with medication, and Money Game Parts 1 & 2 deal with capitalism etc

[@nichooper7]

Interesting, thanks Sammy, I'm going to take a look. Nic

[@annebiebrich9155]

It took a specialist in Brussels to finally properly diagnose him ! He was told for years..."it's your mind MAKING you sick " It's all in your mind ! It wasn't and that is what he refers to in this video

[@nichooper7]

That's enough to drive anyone to madness isn't it.

[@cosette999]

I was told that for 15 years. First body tremors and episodic racing heart rate. Then explosive headaches and grand mal seizures. Then projectile vomiting. It took a CAT scan for diverticulosis when I was 29 to find a pheochromocytoma by accident. An adrenal tumor that was pumping so much adrenaline through my system that I was in constant fight or flight mode. The tremors, racing heart, headaches, seizures and vomiting were all caused by my blood pressure spiking which resulted in brain swelling. I often wonder who I could have been had they been able to discover that my high levels of anxiety that started in grade school had a physiological cause not a psychological one.

[@nichooper7]

@@cosette999 Wow, how rubbish for you but also how interesting. I'm glad they managed to stumble across it though as it must have changed the complexion of your life since then.

[@artsystarmaiden]

Im half way through, up to the breathing techneques bit and i just have to say, you Sir are fire, between finding Hi Ren and watching your two videos i felt like i understand myself and my partner way more, before it felt like a platua for a while and its nice to have some more things fall into place, firstly, i have autism so the bit about not hearing the doctor properly at the beggining is huge and orignally i actually Didn't notice Becuase i thought something in my enviroment was making me not hear her properly and i would never have guessed it was done on purpose becuase of the quality of the other music, becuase when i have a bad sensory day thats basically what all conversation sounds like unless there is no noise at all and i was able to show my partner that part of the video and say "this this is what its like and this is why i look like im having such a bad time" lol Alot of what you said resonated with my partner about medication and etc, but the breathing techneques really resonated with me, i have been to 6 different psycologists and 2 psychiatrists since i was 13 (27 now) and the first two Psycs learning the breathing really helped, i didn't know how to calm my self down before that and 100% needed others to give me that with the state i was in, , i got stressed alot and situations are overwhelming, so i did the logical thing and incorperated it into my life when things got hectic, but i found when i would explain how stressed i am to new psycologists they would offer mindfulness, i got sick of it, and so i told them "ok look i know this already i do this already and its not helping can we just skip this part" and as soon as i say that every time without fail i can basically feel the cogs in there head thinking (well you havnt tried this way or your not doing it properly etc) and you have finally given me the tools to understand the problem at its root and beable to end this conversation with a definitive answer so i can move on with my sessions and not waste time. I can say "I Do already use it to its full extent, i can not spend the rest of my life concentrating on my breath, at some point i goto actually do things and handle problems, breathing doesn't get rid of my bills, it doesnt get rid of my autism or my heart condition, or the fact that i cant get work or my childhood truama, it does help me when im to stressed to move and react, it does help me when i get irrationally angry and know i should calm down, i know your job is to try and help me and you don't have much power other than words, mindfullness and ideas, so can we just focus on talking and working through mental blocks instead" Yeah i think im happy with that, might save it to my phone infact lol Anyway thankyou for your amazing breakdown of the video your awesome and keep it up!

[@nichooper7]

Yea you should save what you just wrote to your phone. It clearly shows the limits of breathing relative to the need for me. Great stuff. Ps thanks also for the positivity and encouragement : )

[@patjoyce]

Ahhh Nic, that's why I subscribed from your last vid - I KNEW you'd be back mate! It's a shame that I'm down here in Oz, otherwise I'd probably be sneaking into some of your lectures in Cardiff! As others have mentioned, 'Chalk Outlines' (Live) very similar theme, and 'How To Be Me' referencing a friend's suicide, are excellent ones for further dissection. Again, I didn't think that Psychological analysis videos would become part of my KZbin viewing habits. Love your work!

[@nichooper7]

Hey Patrick, very kind of you mate. There'd be plenty of space for you in my lectures if you ever found yourself in Cardiff : ) Im going to look at those songs at some point - I cant believe that this guy has so much meaningful stuff out there.

[@matthooper2905]

Great reaction and analysis and extremely helpful, but also quite simple but at the same time hard. I am a manager in a business and have definitely seen the wellness wave you describe as well as other things that avoid the reasons for how people feel, it is broader than my work place and is societal, I think the world has lost its way and is looking at the wrong people to lead the way and help, Ren seems to decipher this, like you, in a clear and logical way. Solutions are hard work, but if people are already working hard its difficult to prioritse where to place your energy...if that makes any sense at all.

[@nichooper7]

Hey Matt, thanks loads for the insightful comment. It makes total sense to me - that is, very good intentioned people want to help and have resource, but really we've not got much of an idea about HOW to help. Sometimes I look at the increased awareness about mental health and wonder whether it is a good thing, because if anything it seems to be perpetuating the idea that these struggles are abnormalities to be gotten rid of. Thanks also for taking the time to be supportive! Nic

[@MurkW00d]

Really insightful reaction, thank you. If you want to go further into Rens music then can I suggest the Tales of Jenny and Screech (full). It's a trilogy with a story threading through it. Also, Money Game parts 1&2, Power, Dominoes, and the live version of Chalk Outlines with Chinchilla. I know you said you weren't just going to look at Rens music, but he has a way of putting things that really make them hit home, even for people who have never experienced what he's talking about.

[@nichooper7]

Thanks for the comment, and glad you liked the analysis. I'm definitely not ruling out other Ren stuff, I just dont want to be confined to only analysing Ren!

[@jeffstumpf9129]

@@nichooper7, Dr. Nic, why would you be limited to just Ren by looking into more of his videos? This shouldn't necessarily limit you to his music. Although, you did start with (what many are calling) his “opus”, what I think they mean is “Magnum Opus” (or, greatest achievement). If you are looking for more artists to analyze/react to, I’m sure your students might have a better idea of that. I only know of Ren because KZbin recommended him to me. I’m a 70-year-old spiritual and religious man fascinated by the underlying meaning of things.

[@nichooper7]

@@jeffstumpf9129 I randomly was sent a link from Wales Online, and what I saw absolutely stunned me whilst on a train. I'm sure that I'll do more analysis of Rens stuff because it is so good but I hope to do other meaningful analyses too. We'll see how that cookie crumbles!

[@gabbymcclymont3563]

@Dr Nic Analyzes but you can't miss the tale of Jenny and Screech, we would all understand moving on from Ren but you will see the tale somehow and it would be a shame we can't see you at that time.

[@gabbymcclymont3563]

I also loved your Richard Burton voice.

[@aaronhommel4615]

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR DOING THESE REVIEWS!!! THEY ARE HELPING A LOT OF PEOPLE. As a 3 X suicide survivor I cannot tell you how much it has helped me understand that I am not the only person who needed it badly and as much as I asked Dr.'s and others for help, I was ALWAYS treated like Ren in this video, regardless of who it was. I get a lot of "the same ol' sayings" people throw at you all the time. Im happy there is a professional who get the fact that isn't how things should be handled. BTW you are not the only professional out there that has seen these videos and who feel the same way as you. I have seen a half dozen at least and they all talk about the same things, and about how after looking back on it, could see them treating patients in this exact manner just so they can check the boxes on their form and on to the next one. Thank you Dr. Nick!

[@nichooper7]

Hey Aaron, thanks so much for taking the time to comment and for sharing some of your story. That's the thing about Ren that I find incredible, his music helps people to make sense of their own experience in ways that sometimes therapists cant. Thanks for the encouragement - to be honest, these videos aren't my natural place and so I'll only keep making the videos if they make a difference to some people. Best wishes, Nic.

[@orcunnisli]

Thanks for this reaction. Very lovely to see a reaction from a honest psychologist. I am 39 and diagnosed with OCD, ADD and recently with ASD, also experienced four episodes of major depression along the way. None of our biology was designed for this ultra fast, high sensory, globally connected, consumerist modern lifestyle, and the society labels the minority who falls in the last ranks of their rat race as "sick". Our genes are like random dices which adapt species for the ever changing conditions of our universe, but our society tries to "fix" and "eradicate" those dices unfit to this bullshit type of existence we only created a century ago. This is what neuro-diversity movement try to stand against and I notice that, a lot of neuro-diverse people have anarchist tendencies like me, because we are the most oppressed. I am taking therapy since almost 10 years and using medication not because I need a "fix", because I have no such power to "fix" the whole society. I am looking forward to see you react to Ren and Chinchilla's live video of Chalk Outlines. Best wishes on your KZbin journey.

[@davespicer3647]

Thank you for posting this! My autism diagnosis did not come about until age 46, in 1994. At that time, the notion that there could be undiagnosed autistic adults wandering around in society was not widely embraced. My own maladaptive coping mechanism was alcohol, and I came to drink alcoholically for years, entering recovery in 1983. Eleven years later, my autism dx finally came after my 8-year-old son was diagnosed. The combination of active alcoholism and undiagnosed autism is pretty nasty. I am now 75 years old and doing much better, and can *really* relate to Ren's medical situation! A brilliant artist, and analyses such as Dr Nic's are wonderful to see.

[@nichooper7]

Thank you Orcun for your lovely comment. I really hear you when you say you cannot fix the whole society. I really wish we could figure that out as it would solve lots of problems for us.

[@nichooper7]

@@davespicer3647 Thanks for the comment Dave and for your kind words. It's rubbish to hear of your history but let me just say that your choice to drink alcohol was an understandable one given the context, and that I hope you look back on the Dave of the past with love and understanding and appreciation, because it's really easy and totally unfair to go another route - that of self-criticism and shame etc.

[@daveednufc]

Another great reaction Nic, what you said makes sense, particularly with the (mis)use of medication as a long term fix, although as you point out there’s certainly a place for it to help people out short term and maybe even if it helps them engage with therapy, whichever type that may be. ‘Chalk outlines’ and ‘diazepam’ are good ‘follow ups’ for what you’ve discussed here and ‘depression’ would probably be a good song to allow both you and Ren to make conclusions on treatment for mental health or perhaps the lack of (correct) treatment for mental health

[@nichooper7]

Bang on David. In time, I'll definitely take a look at those other songs. I find it incredible that so much wisdom can come from one artist. Such a talent.

[@lindseybriggs2771]

Ps I have a middle school student in a district that has extremely robust social and emotional learning curriculum. We're very lucky to have three mental health professionals on staff in addition to two school counselors at our local Middle School which serves grades six through eight under US standards. Two of them are contributed by the local hospital as a service to the community with their salaries paid in full. The level of bullying and violence in the middle school and high school have gone down so much over the years since this program has started. Early intervention and cognitive therapy and listening skills and empathy are life changing. You seem like a very excellent teacher of these things! Please keep providing content!

[@brigittemainella6412]

Fascinating reaction! I love how you break down the video and share your expertise on mental health! Ren is an amazing man to share his personal experience with us through his music and artistic creations! There's so much more Ren to explore 😊

[@nichooper7]

Thanks loads for the support!!!! And yes, I think Ren is going to take over the world and I for 1 would be delighted with that : )

[@amandacollins2854]

Next "chalk outlines " and "how to be me "with chinchilla , money part 1and 2 , and then just so you don't think he is miserable all the time some thing like Bongo Bong with his band "the big push "to see the joy he takes from his music. I look forward to seeing your opinions at least on the songs with chinchilla

[@nichooper7]

Oh my days, I've plenty to look at then! Thanks Amanda. Nic

[@StanCarles]

Dr. Nic, I understand and agree with everything you had to say relative to mental health. Thank you for your analysis of Ren's - Sick Boi Note: The comments before mine have very important information relative to Ren's health issues. If I may, I would like to put Ren's health issues in somewhat of a chronological order as I understand it. 1. Lyme Disease (no diagnosis) 2. Health issues began 3. Sought medical help 4. misdiagnosis begins 5. Symptoms include low energy/tiredness 6. Other Diagnoses include Bi-polar Disorder, general psychological disorder 7. Prescribed mental health drugs 8. Duration Approx. 8 yrs. 9. Lyme Disease Diagnosis 10. Compromised Immune System 11. Stem Cell Treatment (L.A.) 12. Immune System rebuild (Canada) Ren/Ren's Friends Please correct me if I'm wrong. The main point is that the Lyme Disease Diagnosis came late.

[@nichooper7]

Hey Stan, yep that temporal order is important isn't it in understanding the pain and suffering of the man. Thanks for sending it over.

[@Shiroar]

Thank you for this. I love how you talked about quick fixes not being good enough and acknowledging how bad stuff happening around us in the world can have an impact on mental health too. I struggle with accepting the challenges that come with my ADD and byproducts like stress and depression, and the pandemic really hasn’t been good for me. I used to have this stubborn optimism about people being generally good, but seeing how the majority acted so egotistical and was more concerned about small inconveniences in their daily lives than how it put other people’s health at risk to not be careful… well let’s just say it has been a rude awakening and has left me with a sort of anxiety about people as a mass of strangers. I don’t go out much anymore beyond what I have to and will close the blinds out front midday to avoid seeing people and be reminded of their existence when I am getting tired in the head. I know I am overly sensitive and it might be a little silly to have taken this so hard, but it sure doesn’t make it easier to deal with the problems I already had. Mental health is not just internal issues disconnected from the world around us. And my antidepressants don’t make the depression go away, it merely makes it a little easier for me to cope while waiting for and working on things to change. No quick fix miracle cures unfortunately. Sure would be nice though lol

[@nichooper7]

Yea sure would be nice! I get it, your mistrust of other people. I have those days too where I close my blinds, and I also feel total relief when I get back into the safety of my own home. There are good folk out there though, and it will be worth it's weight in gold to find them as you journey your way through life.

[@TheSyncos]

Nic, you went on a lot of tangents here, and y'know what? I'm here for it. This was a great analysis.

[@TheSyncos]

I'm sure Ren's references to the music industry near the end are encouraged by the fact that he was on a label that went and dropped him as soon as his illness got worse. It must be eye opening to have so little loyalty or support.

[@nichooper7]

Thanks so much for the support and positivity Michael, I appreciate it. And yes, how someone somewhere could let Ren go despite the obvious genius I'll never know. I'm really happy about it though, as he could have been turned into a stereotypical pop star, but look how special he is now.

[@paulkennett]

I would totally be up for you reacting to a lot more Ren. Also: a lot of Reactors seem to think the *first time watching* reaction is the only true reaction - but for Ren I think second time is likely to provide higher value insights.

[@nichooper7]

Thanks loads Paul! I also agree with you about the 2nd time reaction. My videos are more analysis than reaction, and it's hard to do good analysis to complex topics on the fly.

[@paulkennett]

@@nichooper7 Right after my comment I watched your later videos and realised you're way ahead of my comment. Good stuff!

[@nichooper7]

@@paulkennett It was all an accident really but I'm having fun on the journey!

[@DaisyKmua]

So interesting how you mentioned him acting calm while his mind is racing... went to a few therapists (never found a good match) and they had to tell me multiple times to stop apologising for crying or being upset, i didn't realise i was constantly saying sorry while going over my traumas... brains are weird. I still do it btw, and i know i don't have to 🤔

[@nichooper7]

It's because therapy is a social activity and so we're always trying to regulate our behaviour for others. Thanks loads for the comment! Nic

[@WhisperWolfe]

The conversation between 11:00--13:00 minute mark is so very on point. You should definitely check out Money Game Part 1 & 2, as well as Chalk Outlines with Chinchilla.

[@nichooper7]

Thank you so much Sabrina for sending over the positivity! I will check those others out. Nic

[@laurabarry1090]

A brilliant and insightful breakdown. I too would look forward to seeing your interpretation of both dominoes and chalk outlines.

[@nichooper7]

Thank you Laura, for taking the time to send over such positive support. I've added those songs to my ever growing list! Nic

[@masterbetta6874]

I want to encourage you to go further with this channel, with a little bit more production I think your insights would reach and help alot of people. Your analysis of this and of Hi Ren were some of the best that I've seen and I think that this platform could be a powerful tool for you. You have a talent for communication and I'm excited to see where you will go with your channel.

[@nichooper7]

That's very kind of you to say! I'm trying to figure out for myself what this looks like going forward. Out of interest, in terms of production, what sort of improvements would be most important (bearing in mind that Im tight on resource and time!).

[@masterbetta6874]

@@nichooper7 I think that using picture in picture so that the viewer can better see and hear what you're reacting to would take it to the next level. I think you're spot on with everything else and I really enjoyed what you've done so far.

[@nichooper7]

@@masterbetta6874 Just gotta figure out how to do that now : ) And also, apparently a good thumbnail matters so that's something else to look up. Thanks loads for the encouragement and reply, I do appreciate it.

[@Q.Q.]

​@@nichooper7 A mic would be of paramount importance. Needn't be fancy, but something that will adequately pick up focused, un-dispersed, non-"dull"/muffled-sounding voice, that will allow for a listener to be able to fully focus on the content of what is being said, and not have to subconsciously devote a proportion of the total focus in trying to sharpen the dull voice into greater aural clarity. Your astute insights are greatly appreciated.

[@nichooper7]

@@Q.Q. Thanks loads - got a mic now : )

[@thehazelinthejane]

I'm about to watch your video but I wanted to let you know that I popped over to your son's channel first and that was great. He put a big smile on my face. So he's got a new subscriber here. I'm looking forward to your reaction now. Welcome to KZbin. And welcome to the Reniverse.

[@nichooper7]

Awww thank you for that. Max will be buzzing! It was his Xmas present to become a KZbinr, which of course meant that I had to learn how to use video editing software. Coming in pretty handy now though! I really hope you like the analysis!

[@outi5001]

What a great analysis on Sick boi, best I’ve seen, really insightful! New subscriber😊 now I have to go and watch your thoughts on Hi ren. I would really like you to do more, by Ren I would suggest Chalk outlines and How to be me with Chinchilla, Penitence, Money game parts 1 and 2, Illest of our time and the tales of Jenny and Screech (full).

[@nichooper7]

Thanks so much, I really appreciate your kindness! Those songs are on my list! I reckon I could spend the next year just working through Ren's catalogue of meaningful songs.

[@papertrucker1]

You made more sense to me than my group therapy did in 12 weeks :) thanks

[@nichooper7]

Ah I'm so glad Craig. Thank you for taking the time to comment.

[@JoshuaCairns]

Your approach to helping people is refreshing. Thank you!

[@nichooper7]

Thank you for taking the time to send over that positivity Joshua! Nic

[@arielbussart1305]

I just realized... only 13:13 in... when you say "there's no quick fix" you're so right! I would say the majority of people I know that see a therapist did not arrive to that office until their mid 20's or so - that's 20+ years of life to unravel and uncover to understand the root of the mental issues. Ren's case was severe because he was mis-diagnosed, but for the majority of people (in my opinion) we try to take the "quick fix" when in reality understanding the root CAUSE is way more beneficial/healing/changeable!

[@nichooper7]

I agree Ariel - I dont think we can expect quick fixes to the complexity of humanity!

[@music2seeconcertphotograph457]

Another very interesting analysis video. Thanx for that. I'd love to see you analyzing "Chalk Outlines" by Ren and Chinchilla. PS: Hope your son will not lock up his camera, so that you cannot "steal" it anymore ;-)

[@nichooper7]

Lol! I control screen time and so he's being very good over it : ) I just did how to be me but I will look at Chalk outlines. Thanks for this comment also! Nic

[@andreamaludy3536]

I am one of the people who are glad that you decide to come back and do another reaction to a Ren song. And again, your analysis and opinions have been very insightful. Though I do fully understand that you do not want to stick with Ren songs only, it would be a pity if you did not touch on some of his other songs because he has so much to say and has such a special way of telling his stories or singing/rapping about unpleasant topics, too. I would really recommend listening to "Chalk Outlines" (live version with Chinchilla), "Depression", "Power", or "Genesis" where mental health topics are addressed in very different ways. But also other important topics like his friend's suicide ("How to be Me", live), insecurities ("Dominioes"), politics and economics ("Money Game" Pt 1+2). And these are just a few....

[@nichooper7]

Thank you! Ps I'm definitely going to do more Ren songs! Just gotta find that bit of time!

[@Mio_Papa]

+1 thanks - really enjoyed your perspective.

[@nichooper7]

Thank you!

[@fourcornersofbrighton]

A very thoughtful reaction! My thought on mindfulness is that it can be helpful to reduce the person's anxiety and stress to a point where the person can talk about what has caused the stress in the first place, especially with children, the anxiety can make it difficult to explain why they are upset. I noticed someone recommended Chalk Outlines as another song to do which would be great. May I also recommend Dominos?

[@nichooper7]

You definitely can. About mindfulness, I research a mindfulness based therapy and have published studies that have investigated mindfulness, so I'm not saying it's all bad. It isn't. Like you say, it can give people (and children) the skills to be more aware of what's going on in their minds and bodies. My worry is that it is sometimes pitched a quick fix for suffering, when really mindfulness involves the acknowledgment of that suffering. Thank you for the on point comment.

[@fourcornersofbrighton]

@@nichooper7 I agree totally, it's only the first step. If you don't deal with the underlying issues, it will become a cycle rather than a step on the path to a solution.

[@ginaarendtson9478]

I believe it is so important that therapists become educated with Lyme disease. Due to climate change and warmer days ahead the tick population expands. It’s already endemic in the US. Unfortunately, globally there is controversy over chronic Lyme. Chronic infection vs auto immune. Mainstream medicine only treats acutely with a high failure rate. One has to go outside mainstream medicine and find Lyme literate practitioners. This is expensive and not covered by insurance. Thanks to KZbin, when I was bitten by a tick and contracted Lyme along with three other bacterias I was able to immediately search out proper treatment. You only get one chance to hopefully prevent chronic illness. Lyme disease comes in many forms. Neuropsychiatric Lyme is what I am assuming Ren has. The only difference between Ren and myself is that I knew what was happening. My fate could have been the same because it hit me neurologically as well. Love your reactions!

[@nichooper7]

Hi Gina, thank you both for sending positive vibes and also for all of that educational information about Lyme disease. It's certainly something I am becoming more familiar with as a result of Rens work.

[@andrewdavidson665]

I had an extremely bad mental health year in 2020 and saw a brilliant psychologist who tried a lot of various techniques with me. He was up front saying that many don't work for many people and it has to be the ones that you find gel with you. Your comment about mindful breathing and the reaction? That was me. He got me to do it though and FOR ME it had a notable improvement. (Other mindfulness techniques did nothing) I thought initially it was just the circuit breaker effect - in terms of just the distracting yourself from the negative thoughts (that further we went into with STOPP) but then he went into the physiological basis of it as well (via the calming of the vagus nerve) which helped me further. I didn't feel so stupid/ridiculous that controlling my breathing made me feel better. 🙂 Anyway, I love Ren. I'm enjoying seeing your take on these thus far.

[@cosette999]

The mental health industry has become our own worst enemy. We have increasing amounts of time to fill so we begin to think too much so we seek therapy where we are taught how to ruminate and then the results of that rumination are treated with drugs that suppress the emotions until the back pressure of unresolved emotions causes people to explode. The best we can do for ourselves is embracing more physical involvement with our own survival. Cooking our own food from scratch, growing our own food when and where we can. Sewing or knitting some of our own clothes or even just making doll or Barbie clothes. We need to start once again teaching children how to discipline their thoughts and regulate their emotions. Children don’t need to analyze what they are feeling and why. They need to be taught how to accept that they are feeling uncomfortable and proceeding with the required chores of the day regardless.

[@nichooper7]

I agree with you on many things here. Especially the idea that children can be taught to feel not nice things and to keep moving their feet towards what's important. Thanks for your contribution here! Nic

[@sketchtherapy1218]

I'm so happy you back, couldn't let the last video be your last act here.

[@nichooper7]

Thank you!

[@mynameisheidi]

Aha! Another video. A few comments... In terms of the name of your channel I'd be as specific and clear as you can, so just psychologist could mean counselling, clinical, neuropsychologist, organisational as all these have counselling components. If it were me in your shoes I'd do Lecturing Psychologist (insert the letters for degrees etc.) or Nic, Lecturing Psychologist reacts. You don't even need the reacts in the title and then you have the flexibility to have videos on all sorts of things. Although you're going to open up your reviews to other directions possibly, in Ren's catalogue I think you'll be at home given you picked up on the theme of the song before the words were even sung in terms of broader themes in society. The first time I've seen a reactor do this for this song. Also, in terms of seeing authority figures for support, I really don't think anyone except those who've been through it can grasp the level of vulnerability it takes to show up and share your inner world with someone (in my case for the first time in my life and each time I get a new insight / awareness of myself), when you're paying that person (a stark reminder you don't have anyone close enough to share with in your social group), it ends in an hour 'time's up' (a cruelty beyond measure when you're there to discuss at times the most sacred parts of who you are and your losses 'my dear boy died', crippled over in grief, stricken and aching unable to walk, leaving anyway, feeling even more alone), you are fitting into an entirely crafted world that is the world of that particular practitioner and the system they're in (it is required you fit into the norms, practices, appropriate behaviours), 'never be too much' (they'll commit you to a hospital, the risk of saying 'I don't want to ...' or they'll turn you away 'I don't take cases like this') and 'always be honest and clear' (so you need to prep and plan and consider everything you say with extreme precision knowing you're one of many they see) and 'never be too little' (they won't take you seriously). And, all this, knowing that many who enter into the room likely have a history (as I do) to never trust authority after growing up with harmful parental treatment etc... But, we've taken a chance on you. I can't overstate the level of humiliation of what that feels like. And, once finding practitioners who are sincere through all of this, how it's an honour to see them, however limited they are in how they can support, why - because they are typically the first people we've had on our side. Consider this with your channel, that you're entering a world where for many people they solely rely on online support and with how you name and what your share in your channel, you could / will likely inadvertently be supporting vulnerable people to feel greater support and dignity in their lives, to walk with a bit more confidence in the world.

[@nichooper7]

Wow Heidi. That was such a powerful piece of writing. I know you didn't intend for the writing to prompt this reaction in me but my inner voice immediately went to "Stop doing this. By some miracle this person thinks that you can do some good in the world but we both know the truth. You're not worthy to sit in this space". I think I had that reaction because of the gravity of your words, and the insight they gave into the realities of this. I'm gutted you've lived this stuff but feel honoured (and better educated) that you just shared a bit of it with me. I think I'll keep coming back to this post. Very many thanks, Nic.

[@mynameisheidi]

Remember my comment and also forget it (said whimsically), so you can be just the way you are and have been on the videos so far is what I can say. How I feel in terms of your response just now, I'm speechless too. thank you.

[@Dragonartykay]

I do agree with you with regards to medication,, however my daughter, attempted 5 times, her mental health was so low, this was since she was about 7 years old. She is now 23 and has medication since 18 years old, she still has now the same dance as we all do, the pendulum, light to dark. But not like it was before. She understands now the trauma caused when someone does commit suicide, after her best friend did it, she phoned my daughter but we were on a train, and she only got a text message, as soon as we got home, we had a call from her dad, my daughter instantly knew what had happened. She was 18, now she helps others understand that trauma of being left behind and survivors guilt. She has helped so many people, they have told her that. Again thank you for your reaction and discussion.

[@nichooper7]

Im so happy that your daughter is using the pain in such a positive way. That's exactly what Ren is doing. And my heart goes out for you because these are extremely stressful waters for any parent to swim in. Thanks loads for taking the time to send that message, with all of its vulnerability. Nic

[@Bearlissimo]

There are several other songs that I think in an order give a better context of the Journey Ren made to "Hi Ren" & Sick Boy... Depression (Self Explanatory), Insomnia (this should be apparent), Patience (It's under Bear McCreary but written & performed by Ren for a film about chronic illness), Dear God (looking elsewhere for reasons & answers), Diazepam (same but chemically), Crutch (answers in others), Ready for you (beginning to understand that it isn't a battle), Heretic (making something of your pain), Hold on (getting through the rough times by understanding it passes & there are things you have to live for), Penitence (losing someone else when you're in other types of pain already), Humble (learning it's a dance, not a fight) I know it's a lot, if you choose to react to them, wonderful, but if not, that's the order I'd recommend to anyone reading this.

[@pirada74]

Yes to all of this.

[@serendipitish]

What an excellent guide to the mental health journey in Ren's music!

[@Bearlissimo]

@@serendipitish as a retrospective, it truly is, but as a timeline from a young man in chronic pain often bed ridden for 23 hours a day, suffering neuropathy as a result of his infection & subsequent misdiagnoses & mis-medication... Well that adds an entirely new colour of context.

[@nichooper7]

From what you've written there, I could literally do a temporal sequence it seems. And I reckon that walking people through that journey would be really helpful for those out there suffering (ie. all of us at some point). I think that you should do this because you've got the narrative up there of a powerful piece. Would you consider it?

[@serendipitish]

@@Bearlissimo Absolutely -- my context was recommending your list to Dr. Nic, who is looking at these songs through the lens of his specialty in mental health, not diminishing Ren's physical journey. We are all on the same page of discussing Ren's mental health as a natural reaction to all the contextual things he's responding to, as Dr. Nic puts it so well! Of course he had mental issues: he was under constant bacterial, inflammatory, autoimmune, and iatrogenic stressors, and suffered an acute lack of honest compassionate support from the system. Right there with you! ❤💔❤

[@shakysenior]

What a fascinating reaction Dr. Thank you for informing me. Bet you can’t stop going down the Ren rabbit hole though!

[@nichooper7]

I'm having to actively be careful with it : ) Thanks loads for the comment!

[@artsystarmaiden]

I havn't watched the anlysis part of your video yet becuase i just checked your sons channel and had to watch the videos! he is adorable and you seem like you two have a great dynamic, i loved the Ong Bak Video, and ill be sure to leave a comment and show my 10 year old it as we are both getting into martial arts soon and they loved parkour for quite awhile (kids are fickle lol) honestly can't wait for what both of you do with your channles ^_^

[@nichooper7]

Thank you! Max will be delighted that you commented on a video of his - I'm going to show him afterwards!

[@tinymusikcodottv-Musikverse99]

Dr, Please give us your thoughts on Ren and Chinchilia Chalk outlines. Live, Money game 1 and 2.

[@stark2315]

Falling in reverse watch the world burn interesting subject.

[@Thomas.Saunders]

Thanks for your insights here.

[@nichooper7]

Thanks Thomas! I appreciate all of the encouragement! Nic

[@frankensteinfpv]

I love your breakdowns of Ren's music. I've had head problems for a long time and they are so quick to give me pills. And your words and knowledge has given me some good food for thought... liked and subbed 👌🤌👍🔥❤️

[@nichooper7]

Thank you! I feel honoured to be able to give people a perspective on this stuff that they mightn't have come across before.

[@hilarycharman-2924]

I really enjoyed this reaction and will go and find the one you did on Hi Ren now as I haven't seen it. Chalk Outlines and How To Be Me would be good does for you to check out. You might also like to look at The Search by NF.

[@nichooper7]

Thanks Hilary for the encouragement and the steer! Nic

[@amandaritzau2602]

Your ADORABLE! Good job sir!

[@nichooper7]

That's very kind of you : )

[@NixyRose72]

About why we don't show our chaotic questioning minds to the psychologist/ therapist/doctor etc... Because if you say what's going on inside your head and are chaotic, it's embarrassing in case they get angry but that's not all. You are terrified to be labeled a "trouble patient" who won't comply. We are afraid to let them know how bad it is, and yet still terrified of how bad it is still going. I'm 50 years old and my go to phrase to my therapist is still, "oh yeah, that makes sense. I'll try that " with very little clue what I've just agreed to. Good analysis. Love Ren's art.

[@nichooper7]

Made me chuckle when you said that last bit! I've been in similar situations in my past. I've no solution for you but, and I say this tentatively, that sort of relationship with your therapist probably isn't going to work for either of you. Perhaps let the chaos out in short bursts?! Thanks loads for the comment! Nic

[@NixyRose72]

@Dr Nic Analyzes oh he's gotten very good at sussing out my "fine"s lol... He just redirects me, and even when I'm smooth about changing the subject, he's pretty quick about noticing. He calls me out on my bs, too. But I do make him laugh (goal of mine, lol). I've also gotten really good at knowing when he's about to call me out, and I've been known to beat him to it. He's kinda in a catch-22 with me, though. There's no real fix for my stuff. Long term depression, anxiety, cptsd, adhd (I got all the acronyms, my mom says I could join the government lol)... I had actually gotten them under control and was doing well until I developed a chronic pain/connective tissue disorder. The constant pain everyday destroyed my progress and depression turned to major depressive and my anxieties and social phobias turned to agoraphobia. Poor guy has his work cut out for him lol. But at least, like I tell him, I'm a self- aware kind of crazy. Anyway, that's just my baggage. After all, I've made it this long, lol. I consider that an accomplishment worthy of a rest. Sorry for the novel. I tend to dump words on poor unsuspecting people. My poor bf has to deal with my obnoxious verbosity in person! (look I'm so smart, big words! 😆) Thank you for your kind and thoughtful response! (Also glad I could make you laugh a little)

[@nichooper7]

@@NixyRose72 Self aware kind of crazy sounds like not crazy to me. Glad you have your little pack and fingers you manage to find further meaning amongst all of the crap!

[@NixyRose72]

@Dr Nic Analyzes it got so much harder when lockdown hit. My agoraphobia was reinforced. Then, in 2021, my then 26 year old son collapsed in my kitchen. He was rushed to the ER and diagnosed with leukemia. They said if he'd gone to work or, more likely given how he felt, gone back to bed.... I'd have lost him. He was THAT close to death. I am so happy to share that after long months in the hospital and more visiting the oncology unit for chemotherapy, he is in remission! Two years as of May!! But with everything, I get overwhelmed and shut down. But when he got sick, I fought myself so hard and was by his side in the hospital (another terrifying place for me) every day they would allow. They even bent the covid rules for us so I could be there. My therapist, bf and parents have been with me all the way. I'd have checked out long ago without them. And now there's Ren and his art. It's nice to know that I'm not alone in pain. I hate that others feel this way, but the isolation of thinking no one, even your closest loved ones, will never truly understand you is devastating. Finding Ren's art is important. I hope everyone hears his music. I hope they are brought the same hope that I have been. Life's been rough, but tomorrow is still another day. Maybe tomorrow is when they will find a cure. Hope is new for me. I'm terrified of it (because losing it will be soul destroying), but I want more of it. Have an AMAZING day and I'm subbed. 🥰

[@nichooper7]

@@NixyRose72 Incredible story - I'm so happy for you and your son, and hope that you keep making strides from here, with hope and holding hope lightly! Sending lots of love in your direction. Nic

[@henrikstornblom]

You have a great view on how it is to be human. ❤

[@nichooper7]

Thanks so much Henrik for sending over this positivity! Nic

[@bunnie4809]

Aww I’m 6 days late to your reaction, but this is one of the better reactions I’ve seen! Thank you so much for spending your knowledge with us! You rock! 👏🏼👏🏼💙

[@nichooper7]

Thanks so much for taking the time to send over this positivity!

[@cherylrobbins715]

I like your use of “analyze” rather than “reaction”.

[@nichooper7]

It had to be because I'd watched the video 20 times (almost transfixed by it) by the time I did the analysis and so it would have been insincere to suggest it was a 'reaction'. Plus the words 'psychologist' and 'analyse' go together really well : )

[@lindseybriggs2771]

I feel like I just went to the therapist after watching this video in a really super good way!

[@helenk43]

I wish every counsellor/therapist was as understanding as u! I completely agree with everything u said about so many ‘professionals’ throwing antidepressants at u instead of actually helping people understand the actual root of what’s causing them to feel or act in ways that aren’t really healthy (if thts the right word lol) My past experiences with depression over many years has made me feel like antidepressants may work for the short term but the side effects like feeling numb or kinda robotic are worse than feeling everything.I haven’t ever heard anyone in the medical/mental health field speak about all of the things u have in such an insightful and relatable way so I wanna say thank u 🙏 Another artist I think would be perfect for u is a guy called Mic Righteous whose music is more therapeutic to me and many ppl than any counselling, his song Pathways is so deep but I’d love to hear u break it all down as it deals with men’s mental health issues and imo that needs to be talked about so much more than it does , it’s relatable ro me also as a parent as well.Sorry this is so long 😂love ur channel n can’t wait for more xxx

[@nichooper7]

Ah thank you for taking the time to comment Helen. I agree with all of your sentiments about mental health. I'll look up Mic Righteous and that song, thanks for the steer! Nic

[@helenk43]

@@nichooper7 ur welcome 🙏

[@christaylor6617]

Great reaction, let it run a bit before stopping

[@nichooper7]

Thanks loads Chris - Can I ask what you mean by letting it run a bit before stopping? As in, did I make some elementary mistake in the video that I should look out for in future videos?!

[@martingilluk1]

Great work Nic. Your model must be a systemic one. Have you done some training of that ilk? Wider context being a key understanding in family therapy.

[@nichooper7]

Hey Martin, thanks so much. I'm a strange one to label really. In short, I'm an academic psychologist (I run research etc) who specialises in a clinical therapy (ACT). ACT theory is certainly in agreement with elements of many other approaches (including family therapy), but it has such a focus on context because it is a descendent of the behavioural tradition (i.e. environment shapes our experience). I tend to do ACT trainings and lower level intervention work (e.g. workplace wellbeing) but never with clinical populations (because I'm not qualified for that). I also like to write about these things in an accessible way as possible, with my pride and joy being a book called 'The Unbreakable Student'. Correct me if I am wrong here but it seems to me that you are an outside of the box type psychologist and so the curious part of me is wondering what things you have up your sleeve. That interplay of psychotherapy and production makes me think you may be writing play or a musical, or possibly a book!

[@robertobachmann5462]

Dr Nic, very interesting and educational what you explain and say, I am sure that all of us who swim in these waters serves. Thanks a lot.

[@nichooper7]

Thank you Roberto!

[@barefootalien]

Ahh, interesting. I see what you're saying with mindfulness. At first I was objecting, because I've used mindfulness both on myself, and on others, for things like panic attacks, with great success. I especially like to combine it with a boat on the ocean analogy, the ocean being the raw power of the unconscious mind and its manifestations, with the conscious mind floating atop the waves, the idea being that if you try to float like a barge, always steady, ignoring the waves, you might feel steadier most of the time, but when a storm comes along, it can't handle it, waves wash over it, disrupting its cargo, maybe sending it under for a time. If you're a small fishing boat, smaller waves might rock you a bit more, but that's okay; that's part of the fun. But then when a storm comes along, you can ride the waves, bob and weave, roll and rock, and while it may feel tumultuous, ultimately you can weather the storm. To my mind, a panic attack or anxiety attack is not a good thing. That really _is_ something going dramatically wrong, either neurologically or psychologically, creating a vicious spiral that can be traumatic on its own... so using mindful breathing, or other mindfulness techniques like naming objects you can touch, etc, can sort of dirsrupt the whirlpool the person is stuck in so they can breathe and hear and think, and I think that's unambiguously good and useful. It was nigh miraculous the first time it was used on me, and I'm happy to pass it on to others. But I can see that if it's used not as an intervention, but as a prescriptive mechanism, a shield against things getting out of control in the first place, yeah, that puts the blame on the person. When used as an intervention, I've never felt like it blamed me, and I've never had anyone say it felt like that to them. In fact, a key part of it, for me, is that once the crisis has abated, I walk them through using mindfulness as a tool to access a place where they can sit with their inner feelings and thoughts, and accept and acknowledge them.

[@brionysmith3489]

As a long term user of anti anxiety drugs, I know what the issue is but no one wants to help sort the problem so I take the drugs to allow me to function. I’m a parent of a child with a severe disability and most of us are medicated because changing society to include us is not financially profitable.

[@nichooper7]

Absolutely correct. The drugs happen because society won't change easily. Which is rubbish really isn't it. Life must be proper tough for you and I'm sorry to read it. Thanks for taking the time to comment, Nic.

[@InconSteveHable]

lots more Ren songs dealing with mental health issues... Insomnia Depression Genesis Chalk Outlines Societal issues Money game I & II The tale of Jenny, Screech and Violet (there is a Full version direct of Ren's youtube channel

[@nichooper7]

Thank you for the comment! Yes, it seems like there is lots more to look at Steve!

[@barefootalien]

Whoa, you're the first person I've seen notice that the music is too loud over the psychologist at the start. I noticed it right away, and I _kind_ of think a lot of people might and just don't say anything, but there are music producers and people who _make_ music videos for a living, who say nothing, too. Whether they were to say it critically or complimentarily, I'd expect _someone_ to notice. But nope! Just you! Good job!

[@Lou-xq9br]

Great reaction, there is no quick fix! I have lost all faith in doctor's & professionals in that sector. Push pills on you that made me personally way worse or waffle on about thing's that don't help with the issue's 🤦🏼‍♀️💙 Hope you check out Chalk outlines & money game 1&2

[@nichooper7]

Thanks for the encouragement! I understand your cynicism, I really do. Feels like money has pushed people to be more confident in 'treatment' than they should be, and that sometimes we just need people to listen and empathise and not solve us.

[@roexception1962]

You missed the opportunity to make a video about lying after the "Hi Ren" video, lol Anyways, great video, keep it up. I'd love to see more!

[@nichooper7]

I've mixed feelings about coming back. On the one hand, I think I'm a man of my word and so this second video makes me feel a little bit dirty given what I said in the first video. On the other hand, I'm giving myself a break because I didn't expect to be caught up in some of the niceness that happened with my other video, and the buzz that I got from people liking and commenting etc. Dont get me wrong, I'm still wary. For example, I've been on my phone more in the last two weeks and have therefore been less connected to those around me, but I'm okay with this new experience for now : )

[@roexception1962]

@@nichooper7 Don't worry about it, do what you think is best and what you're happiest with!

[@stevengeller829]

I love the reaction. I think what he might mean by he’s doing the same is that to do what he’s doing, like raping the earth of resources for one type of gains, he’s raping himself of his limited resources for other types of gains. Maybe, he’s exhausted and sick, but, needs to use exhausted physical and mental resources to get his music out of his head. At the same time, he’s pointed out that it is also a form of therapy for his weary mind in other songs. I love a good educational take on a topic brought out from music. Keep it up (I hope).

[@nichooper7]

Yea I hadn't considered that but I think you make a good point. That end bit is something that I'm going to try to make sense of when I get a bit of time to think about it. Possibly about how he easily falls into the practices of wider society even though he knows how harmful they. Appreciate the comment. Nic

[@stevengeller829]

@@nichooper7 In the song Life Is Funny, he says something that kind of goes along w that thought… “Am I the byproduct of my environment I buy products for my requirement A sucker I know that 'Cause I'm a sucker too You're a sucker, I'm a sucker Fuck it, what you gonna do?” He’s very self analyzing without being necessarily self deprecating at all. It’s interesting.

[@tinymusikcodottv-Musikverse99]

Studied Psycology a year and I agree with what you say. Keep it up

[@nichooper7]

Thank you! I'll look at those songs in time!

[@hollykuhn9512]

Your spot on ❤

[@jackchisnall9316]

Trying to be constructive, the first video was much better, the video that is not your analysis that was excellent. The screen of the laptop was not visible and the sound was distorted but your observations were spot on again.Please continue "Chalk outlines" or "How to be me" might be a good next subject.

[@nichooper7]

Ah thanks Jack. And yes, Im going to look at those videos in time. Nic ps my son was using our living room and so I had to be flexible with filming location! It's good to know about your experience though as that can shape future decisions on this.

[@spinalobifida]

my teachers are sick, my smile broke, my ascension feels old, here lies a body is the Welsh translation

[@SeanWorlock]

Excellent analysis. Given you have expressed a wish to broaden your scope beyond Ren then maybe take a look at some of Peter Gabriel's music. Particularly 'Family Snapshot' and the duet with the lovely Kate Bush - 'Don't give up'. Both contain strong messages of psychological struggle.

[@nichooper7]

Thanks Sean, I really appreciate you taking the time to be encouraging. I will look at those songs. Nic

[@glynnettleton9900]

Hi Dr, I know you don't want to do endless streams of Ren fanboy annalise lol but to be fair all round I honestly say that Ren is prob the most famous guy on KZbin atm as his art speaks to every generation at a time when the world is a very unhappy place. There are 17 yr olds & 70 yr olds who understand him & relate to his message! For your students tho, may I recommend you make a review of: Sugar Mice by the 80's prog rock group Marillion. Its about addiction caused by life failures, shame & guilt. Its perfect for you to cover with your students 😁

[@nichooper7]

Hey Glyn, yea there's something very special about how Rens music connects with people across the age ranges. Thanks loads for the recommendation - Im going to look it up when I get a chance! Nic

[@staceyjayneplatt9527]

New English Subscriber 👍🙏🙏 please please don’t stop your channel it’s vital 2024 will help many people walk through it because we need to have a conscious connection.We are 1 human family 🙏👍🤩🤩💙💙

[@belindamelville2270]

❤❤❤❤❤

[@ShondaLouisianaMama]

Please do Chalk Outlines next.

[@nichooper7]

Ahh I just didn't How to be me but I will look at Chalk Outlines! Thanks Shonda for the comment!

[@imwithyou38]

i come from a family where mental illness is the normal sadly, my mom had schizophrenia, my grandma had 3 syblings with it, 3 of my cousins were all born with downs, GAD is spread across my moms side. i have bi polar disorder 1, GAD, bad nightmare disorder(5-6 nights of very vivid nightmares i can could remember every night before i was medicated), and autoimmmune disorder which also runs through the family. im lucky to have a psychologist and doctor who cares while having bottom of the barrel insurance which where i live is nearly imposssible to find some that actually care.

[@nichooper7]

Im sorry to read this, as it sounds like you feel trapped in this shit. Small moves, figure how what will bring you a bit more meaning, and make small and gentle moves towards it. You dont have to get rid of that stuff in order to experience value in life. Thanks loads of the comment. Nic

[@rudolphadonis3030]

Hi Dr. I really appreciate the Pearls of wisdom, more people need to hear this from your perspective. However I feel perhaps a roundtable discussion with some of your colleagues in your field could give a much broader range of ideas to enlighten us layman. Preferably a heated conversation for the sake of entertainment 😄 but an enlighten one none the less. Perhaps just commentary from some of your peers on the two tracks u have done videos on. Just my two cents.

[@nichooper7]

The problem is that I'm not important enough for people to commentate on my videos! Maybe one day! About the perspectives thing - I'll keep an eye out for some people to fight with : ) Nah, being serious, these videos are very much MY perspective (or the perspective of the psychology I study) rather than THE perspective. It's important to be up front about that. Thanks loads for the comment and the positivity Rudolph.

[@Lynxeye-Youtube]

With all due respect, I think it's better to think twice before saying no more videos about REN!.... Especially if you see "Depression", "Dear God", "Diazepam", "Chalk Outlines"... at least that's what I think. Give these videoclips a chance

[@nichooper7]

Yea Im getting the sense that my channel might be heavily weighted towards Rens music given how their content seems to fit so nicely with my understanding of the world.

[@bjr1007]

Great video agree with almost everything but I have to say. We should always look for middle ground. Yes we shouldn't "rape the earth" as Ren says. But at the same time people pursuing riches advance society greatly because of innovation. If we just do what some suggest which is have extreme high taxes for the wealthy, then who's to say they won't just say well I won't pursue this innovation. All I am saying is their is a important middle ground here that we should look for. People reacting with emotion thinking things are simple and think fixes are just to stop or do the opposite, just is not a smart way to fix anything. You keep what works the best. Everything has pros and cons. But keep the ideas that have more cons. Also, I have to say, I hope we are thinking about fixes that are all based on real facts and not interpretations of facts. Anyways, sorry for this long comment. Again Doctor thanks for the reaction. Keep it up.

[@bjr1007]

Correction=Keep the ideas that have more Pros*** not Cons.

[@nichooper7]

Hey Rudy, yea I totally agree with you. In fact, that's probably the major problem we have on planet earth. Plenty of people want to change but I'm not sure many have the answers about how change should happen in a way that won't cause other problems. I guess they'd say that innovation doesnt matter if the planet dies but of course some of that innovation might help the planet. The longer I've lived the more I see nuance and complexity everywhere. Thanks for your comment!

[@bjr1007]

@@nichooper7 All I can say is wow, Honestly, You just got my full respect for you. Honestly I must apologize to you I expected what most people do when receiving a comment like the one I left you, just reply back with pure emotion like I offended them simply by critiquing something said. Thank you very much for your reply and Please keep up the reactions. We need more reactions from qualified professionals. If you don't mind I will suggest one to review. He has a song called Ren = Power. Most people do not pick up on the surprising amount of wisdom and philosophy in this song But I am sure you will.. Give it a try. Thanks again.

[@nichooper7]

@@bjr1007 No problem Rudy. I think that any post written with respect is worth responding to. Different perspectives are a good thing but too often discourse stops because those perspectives aren't presented with respect and understanding. I'll look at power and thanks for this added comment! Nic

[@sketchtherapy1218]

Ren was misdiagnosed a decade ago by doctors. He actually had Lime Disease but they thought his mind was playing tricks and gave him strong drugs and the Lime disease ran amuck for 7-8 years. He is currently in canada receiving treatment to undo all the damage done.

[@nichooper7]

Yea I've learned a little of this history and it's rubbish for him.

[@sketchtherapy1218]

@@nichooper7 he decided this was set in stone that he has to be the illest artist so that he can find a standardized treatment and early diagnosis system for Lyme disease. He speaks of it in a song called Illest of our time. ill share his post about it.

[@sketchtherapy1218]

@@nichooper7 Posted by Ren on his community page: "Overhwlemed by the amount of support for illest Of Our Time. Have been loving watching all the reaction videos and hearing everyone's interpretation. I never usually break down my own words because I love letting people apply their own meaning, but there was one line I wanted to explain. The title of the song. Alot of people took this to mean "The greatest Of Our Time" "Look for all the answers that I never seem to find, Till then I guess I'm still the illest of our time" Its my reluctance to be the illest - the clue is in the word 'guess' - ive spent the better part of a decade looking for solutions to the damage lyme disease dealt with countless doctors visits, and am still in that boat. "Illest" can also mean "dopest" "best" etc. So it's a bit of a double entendre. Same as "Sick boi" This theme is repeated with the line "elementary dear Watson you might find" cause Sherlock Holmes was always searching for the clues to piece the puzzle together, which is very relatable when trying to piece together parts of a very complex health picture, anyone with a very complex illness will relate to almost having to become your own detective. And finally "A pathologic entity - if everything is set in stone then this is how its meant to be" Acceptance that this might just be the cards I've been dealt. To search for answers and simultaneously accept that chronic illness may be your fate is a bit of a paradox because it is the rejection of acceptance that spurs you forward in the pursuit of answers, but it is the acceptance that you may always be sick that let's you lead a more peaceful life... so one must walk this contradictory line between both opposing states to have the motivation to find the answers whilst not being so outcome dependent. Still haven't mastered this, but think it's an interesting concept" posted by Ren Gill (The Illest of the Ill) Me: To me it's like Ren is psyching himself up to get bigger, how much bigger? Big enough to have the power to create a standardized treatment for Lyme Disease & an early detection system... hyuge you gotta be hyuge. That takes millions upon millions upon millions of dollars, but Ren ain't rich never has been most of the money goes to medicine. Some of the reactors have more subscribers than he does. that's why he feels like Atlas sometimes maybe like the weight of the medical world is on his shoulders but he can't shrug it off.

[@nichooper7]

@@sketchtherapy1218 Thanks for sharing that, I really appreciate it. I get the complexity and like the exploration of acceptance. I also like your interpretation of it all.

[@sketchtherapy1218]

@@nichooper7 I used to be super smart before I broke my head when I was in the military in an accident. I used to fix tanks all the miles of wires, all the circuit boards and all the hydraulics. I still have a couple of marbles jangling up there. I know what its like feel like maybe you were broken for a purpose that some good can come of this. But im not very good at anything anymore. I sketch as a therapy but I still don't have the revelation that tells me why all of this is set in stone.

[@Feralkitten5]

Few times in my life i been told its in my head . 19 my knee started to hurt bad i started to struggle to walk, dr after dr after dr told me i was fine its in my head. 2 years later a physio realised im hypermobilty everywhere and i had serious medical issues its Not in my head ! But for two years i thought it was . Once we knew it was hypermobilty syndrome i was handed strong pain killers like pop this pill and go away. About 9 years ago i started haveing migraines feeling ill eye sight issues and low moods very low moods no engery . So right away it mental health issues turns out my pituitary damiged and one hormones effect is cortisol and cortisol can really effect your mood but as im needle phobic badly lots of trauma with needles my cortisol go from low to low normal but a full blown flight or flight phobic response should caused huge high levels . But drs who deal with cortisol dont deal with phobic responces it like oh no thats a different department but look it hit normal today so its all good see you in a year. but im one person so every time a dr says oh no not my area like really as there all playing together my body dont know oh wait thats a different department. But my finding is drs are not looking for medical answer most times they tend to just want to put you in a box. Sorry about spelling im badly dyslexic and possable adhd lol 😅 im a bit of everything.

[@janebird723]

Ren is highlighting the difference between mental health and brain health. How do clinicians distinguish between life events /trauma and encephalitis events /autoimmunity? Talking therapy and anti psychotics were never going to fix Ren. Autoimmune encephalitis events are commonly misdiagnosed as psychological.

[@nichooper7]

Yea Im noticing the tension here between physical and mental health. But outside of his physical health problems, I'm assuming that Ren has suffered in his mind too?

[@LeeannG]

He definitely suffered in his mind, but a lot of it resulted in the consequences of his autoimmunity, and the trauma of being diagnosed with ME, which he did not actually have. What mental issues Ren would have had cannot be severed from what he actually DID experience and I don’t think it’s helpful to try to analyze a person without their experiences. It’s so important to understand that Rens physical symptoms were always treated as psychosomatic.

[@nichooper7]

@@LeeannG Yea, I think that's what I was trying to point towards. In other words, the physical health problems and misdiagnosis led to psychological angst at various points throughout this. And so I think that Ren, despite his physical health problems being front and centre, is probably quite an authority on mental health too. In fact, based on his songs, Im confident that he is! Thanks for the comment Leann!

[@gerdbauersfeld5706]

Ok, better than most reaction I have seen so far, maybe your video skills could be improved? (Well, quality content is more important than HD) You comments make me think you could like the video Money Game Part 2 from Ren. Look it up, its another genius piece. (Highly recommended even if you don't wanna make reaction video on it)

[@nichooper7]

Thanks for the comment Gerd - I'll certainly take a look at Money Game. Nic Ps this video is at the very top of my current technological abilities : )

[@jasper4365]

if your taking srooms twice a day its a problem but de diferense is that its a corse, while these inhibitors are forr life.. theching.. dont know if ether of them work thow, they dint for my brother.

[@nichooper7]

Yes, I agree. I think the bigger problem is that these treatments claim to alter a biological abnormality that doesnt even exist. And so the root cause is never explored. Thanks for the taking the time to comment! Nic

[@rainbowraver666]

alsjdishdlsnc I love that you pointed out how stupid the idea of workplace mindfulness is, there's a great UK based podcast called trash future and they've discussed so many dumb ""mental health"" startups that companies encourage their workers to use 🤦 WORKERS DON'T NEED MINDFULNESS, THEY NEED UNIONS 😭

[@dubbayabird6680]

The therapist is just background noise

[@ideasmeltlikesnow1143]

you may find it difficult to stop following Ren now! thanks for highlighting the climate change aspect too

[@nichooper7]

Thanks loads for the comment! Im glad he raised climate change tbh!

[@BluePhoebe79]

​@@nichooper7 Yes, thanks for highlighting that! Besides causing people anxiety as you mentioned, climate change is causing an increase in Lyme disease, since ticks thrive in warmer weather. I thought he might be talking about Covid also (since Long Covid has many similarities to Lyme, those of us with Lyme and other chronic illnesses are vulnerable to getting even sicker if we catch it--as I've found out the hard way, and the science says it isn't over). Wonderful reaction with great insights...I hope you will do a third one!

[@nichooper7]

@@BluePhoebe79 Ah that's interesting, you just taught me some things and so thank you! And Im sorry to hear you're unwell. Health problems like this really are no fun and no doubt that heavily influences what happens in your mind. Thanks loads for the encouragement! Nic

[@ignoblesavage5559]

DN--i would preface whatever descriptive phrase with the word SHRINK-WRAPPED. but i like self-effacing humor. i apologize in advance...no quick way to say it. to a couple of your points: i have been to a LOT of therapy, and studied even more in college (double major, near-useless BA polysci/psych) and TBH i'd rather encountered this kind of unemotional therapist than the kind who are of sunny disposition...those kind make me wish that i could deliver my darkness to them directly. and it actually may be counterproductive, b/c it shifts MY OWN focus to the absolutely wrong thing. you go to therapy for depression not b/c you're depressed--that's natural--bad things happen. no, you go b/c you cant move ON from it. the other thing...related to the 6 things happy people do: i'm on the autism spectrum (frmrly called asperger's, i guess..."high functioning," but i don't FEEL that). i have tried repeatedly to engage the world and its people, as well as engaging in some degree of self-care. when i was younger i found enjoyment in athletics (played basketball and volleyball for my college team)...there is a natural element of attacking challenges in sports, and when you succeed it's powerful. then my body started falling apart (yrs later) due to autoimmune injury issues and i lost the benefits of competition, had to stop training martial arts. had some work success, but found at some point i was ATTRACTING DISASTER. my mind started attacking itself b/c of what i've come to believe my life manifesting inevitably in outwardly damaging ways. everything's eventual, right? entropy is a "law" for a reason, but good lord. my theory is i made things worse staying long term in a bad relationship i wanted out of (but stayed for the kids), and began experiencing cognitive dissonance. i think CD is absolutely DEADLY to people--either to the person experiencing it or to those around them (look how ppl today treat one another). store that away for 1 sec. another disaster forced my divorce (good), & eventually i married the woman i WANTED to be with forever. but murphy's law followed me, and due in large part to the monumental challenges of dealing w/my health & depression, that ended last month. SO...maybe some people are just f*cked, and no matter how hard they struggle, disaster catches up. it's a lot, but...any thoughts? thank you. cheers.

[@nichooper7]

Gosh, I wish I knew your name because it feels impersonal to message you without it. Firstly, bloody hell, you've been through the mill. Im sorry about that. Secondly, I'm not going to sit here and give you easy solution to the complexity your just described. Sometimes things are messy and complex and hard and interwoven and it can leave you with that feeling that youre just one of these fucked people. But I dont believe that. No doubt you've had it rough but I think you can always find a way to meaning, and so it feels like you need to start at the beginning, with this question: who do you want to be on planet earth (what kind of person), what would being that person look like in terms of your behaviour, and what would you like to do that you think might bring you meaning? The answers to those questions won't necessarily make the pain go away but you might be able to get meaning while taking the pain with you. None of this stuff is easy though, but that's okay, because being human isn't easy a lot of the time. Hope that helps in some way, and thanks for letting me see you. Nic

[@user-wk3pk2sj1w]

welcome back welcome back weelcome back, your clients are licky to have you, I can only hope that they understand that. check out money game, SMASH the like SMASH the sub.

[@nichooper7]

Thank you! Money game is added to the list.

[@aixmhros]

+1

[@sketchtherapy1218]

All your kid's gotta do to get views is become a Doctor if he gets mad tell him that lololololol.

[@nichooper7]

That's exactly what I'm gonna do : )

[@sketchtherapy1218]

@@nichooper7 lololol hard work pays off in the fields you’d least expect it lololol