What It Was Like Being A Dr*g Addict | Russell Brand

[@daved8696]

I've been an addict for 25 years. 9 overdose hospolized many many many times... Been formed 4 times because of suicidal..... I'm 45 now and clean for 14 months!!!

[@karinsmith7613]

Good for you Dave! Keep it up as it will get better. We do have a Higher Power, or God who knows our desperate needs at times, and supplies them in the most magnificent of ways! I've had it happen many times! God bless you!

[@MissJacqification]

you are a strong person! Congratulations on your 14 month being clean

[@enamorana]

Good for you. Keep going!

[@lalamcgreenlight8478]

Awesome dave

[@elliesimpson1313]

Hang in there! I'm praying for you

[@betsybabf748]

This is interesting. My husband was abandoned by his birth mother, given weed at 9, taught how to snort a line by his own family at 13. We met as teens, and I wouldn't take it, willing to walk out, refusing to raise kids with that example. He stopped and was the hardest working husband & dad his whole life, even stepping up as a dad to foster kids who had drugs in their home, setting such a good example. I and our kids lost him at 45, but he be lived as the man he wanted to be, not where he was being guided to. So proud of him.

[@sgr9400]

Thanks for sharing such a positive & inspiring testimony about your husband. It’s an excellent example of how, when addiction is addressed & transcended, people achieve so much & contribute so richly to the lives of others. I also commend & admire you for having boundaries, out of love for your man, at a time when the relationship became so emotionally painful & challenging. The contribution of loving, dedicated spouses is such a precious gift for people in recovery although the determination to change must ultimately be recognised, accepted & acted on by the addict. Nevertheless your love & devotion was no doubt a strong source of support & encouragement for your husband.

[@JG-sd9zd]

Love to your family. ❤

[@facemelter2277]

This is beautiful

[@iggystardust9236]

I'm so sorry that he died from an overdose... Rest in peace.

[@kinkynikk]

@@iggystardust9236 Who said anything about an overdose?

[@infiniteflame2374]

Elliott Gould: 'I didn't have a drug problem. I had a problem with reality' That was why I used to escape reality. Once I learned to to change reality by changing myself then I stopped.

[@MikeOcksmallClips]

Funny that that’s exactly where the gita took me. Reality is us we are reality, drugs help change but they don’t give you the self control needed to change it on your own. That’s where spirituality and discipline come in.

[@daniellew3260]

exactly. i had a reality problem more than anything else

[@xXxWhiskeytangoxXx]

Mine was a spiritual problem cause I was so disappointed with reality. Went to college to become an accountant and 3ed year in during an internship, I said there's has to be more to life....or maybe it was the reality of accounting 🤔

[@Litepaw]

I had a problem with myself. And that attracted abusers and bullies like vultures. Everything sucked and nothing mattered anymore. Im 28 and I've accomplished nothing in life, but at least I've lived like 3 normies worth of lifetimes.

[@carltoncotter2614]

@@Litepaw Litespark, what kind of problem with yourself? Do you mean assertiveness, boundaries, self-esteem, self defense, goals? I admire your ability to say this - especially at such a young age - and sure you can move forward and multiply from here.

[@daistoke1314]

I worked with addicts for a while, the lack of unconditional love was a big factor. Always feeling you aren't quite good enough. It's hard to feel valued if those close to you make you feel a failure.

[@marysalvi242]

@Dai Stoke then a question for you because I was a heavy drinker, also had a addict for a mate back in the 60's.. I don't drink anymore (because of meds I have to take) miss it when family gatherings come around, though now "my" addiction personality will go on different binges so to speak, do you believe that love factor and all that makes us crave "something" stays? Would you just an opinion say that having a huge following of others who state they love you COULD become an addiction to some of us who have that personality. I mean you know it's one day at a time. Man, this is an overload imo of temptation. My opinion - yeah, when I'm at a gathering, I spot the drinker right away - may not be an acholic though up has something going on between them and the liquid. It's sad and I'm not judging, me thinks RB is addictive to this chanel. Maybe that is why not aware or perhaps knowing he has that meditative channel. ??

[@daistoke1314]

@@marysalvi242 there is a line of thinking which is that addicts are addicts, so they give up one addiction, say drugs, and become addicted to something else, say fame? Another thought is that the people who become addicted are basically buzz junkies. There are many theories. So if you look at all the various thoughts the idea that being loved, admired and listened to replaces the buzz from drugs is possible then yes. But he might still be right, the gain could be a by product not the motive.

[@phoenixrising5088]

I believe Russell had a very loving family life. His Mother is awesome and I'm sure he had a very happy childhood.

[@daistoke1314]

@@phoenixrising5088 something we found is that people could come from great families but still feel emotional problems. Our main concern obviously was helping rather than analysing and sometimes it was close to impossible to identify reasons. One thing we "thought" was that some people just needed more, there was no failure by parents or by the individual just an imbalance. I didn't mean to imply that parents were the cause, sometimes no matter how good the parents were the kid still didn't quite feel it.

[@samyoungblood3740]

Amazing he can talk about addiction for all of us so openly.. to hopefully stop someone from ruining their life. Most addicts start to crave a drug pretty quick just talking about it. Addiction def a life long struggle. ❤️🙏🏼

[@freechordsthetruthmarceden8277]

6 months in. Totally clean. Heroin. One day at a time 🌞

[@Suckyamother]

Congrats!!! ❤️❤️ stay strong

[@sendhelp6537]

Congrats! It's the PAWS that'll kill ya...stay vigilant

[@DarkSkies72]

Good job! Never look back!

[@hahapoppy]

Congrats for taking the first step and each one after that!

[@BarriosGroupie]

Not just one day, but the ceremony of heroin addiction replaced by more acceptable addictions leading to a better way of living life.

[@craigshurmur6132]

I remember seeing Russell at a NA meeting I’d only been out of prison for two weeks and had only been clean for about 6-8 weeks and was still struggling, but after the meeting Russell took the time to come over and speak to me and give me words of encouragement and told me to stay strong I’ll always remember that day someone like him took the time to speak to me and offer me words of advice and help such a nice bloke

[@teek1916]

The way Russell can speak in a coherently endless train of consciousness is fascinating and exhilarating. His mouth is keeping time with his thought process. It's a true skill, a gift really. Every word has clarity. It's like listening to music.

[@witteney3334]

Good description.

[@karencourt5684]

He is a real wonder for sure.tells it straight up.its great to know people can overcome things.thanx russel. 👍👍👍👍👍👍😀😀😀😀😀

[@elftower907]

Open higher chakras. Clear light speaking.

[@communsensus3734]

It's called BS.. easy to sync

[@LadywatchingByrd]

I don't think he uses a single stammer or "uh" or "um" or even pauses. It is quite amazing.

[@randocrazunknown4771]

I'm 28 and I'm having a hard time with addiction on and off on and off. I've been binging your videos for a few weeks, and I just want to say thank you. You'll never see this but you've changed my perspective on everything in complete positive ways. Thank you.

[@MrChit-od9po]

Sometime we just need something better to higher prioritize than the drug of choice. Of course you have your detox first. Good luck all.

[@jenns6063]

I will pray that you find an escape from your addiction. Maybe read Russell's book "Recovery: Freedom from our Addictions"

[@bubbabuttz1629]

2 weeks later...How are you doing?

[@randocrazunknown4771]

@@bubbabuttz1629 works keeping me busy but it's become an excuse to drink when I'm off, sometimes I can just have 2 but most of time I binge drink. I'm trying.

[@DT-sb9sv]

I'm in my 40's and still struggling with alcohol. I don't buy the abstinence on everyone's situation. It's the ability of one to have 2 and done. I like to say I don't have a drinking problem, I have a stopping problem.

[@glowgirl8171]

At 14 yrs old, my mother gave me narcotics for a headache because "We don't have aspirin. Here, take this." It was Vicodin and from that day on, I was hooked. She gave it to me often until it cut into her supply,. Then she cut me off. My life was a horror show, searching , always searching , for drugs. I cleaned up after losing everything and life is better now. Good luck to everyone who is struggling. I'm thinking of you.

[@theresachung703]

Your story gives me strength when I think thoughts like, I can’t do this. One day at a time . I’m not a drug addict but the fear and the pain, I can relate to. When you think you can’t go on. Thanks for sharing. It has truly touched me. Keep on going! Keep. On. Going .

[@helenwaldron5858]

Thankyou love done. Ive lost my entire family to alcohol suicide mental drugs and i don't see any point point in in living anymore. But well done love, i don't know what to do anymore. X🙏😢😢😭

[@sogno_di_carta6430]

Wow. Your own mother. This is too sad. But I know is the reality for a lot of people. God bless

[@ToastyWaffle456]

Outside of the benefit you gained from the growing experience it's very horrifying to hear people fall into these kinds of issues directly because of parental action. It's an example that really shows how much of a gamble the human experience is.

[@francoisnel5253]

Some parents are so irresponsible. I knew a girl whos dad started her on meth. Wtf. So many parents have no clue and take no responsibility for the life they created. Probably messed up victims themselves, but still. Once you reproduce you need to think of the consequences.

[@dondamon4669]

This guy is a hero ! He came into a rehab I was in and gave a talk and didn’t act like a celebrity at all, afterwards he came over and gave us a hug. I was young and clean/sober first time and head was mess and raw so I couldn’t share back but I sensed he sensed that so came up to me to show that . It helped me stay in recovery. Cool guy! 😎🕺

[@eleanorryanryan2442]

That's great Don, as they say take one day at a time and you will continue to stay clean and reep the rewards.. 🍀🇮🇪

[@eleanorryanryan2442]

That's great Don, as they say take one day at a time and you will continue to stay clean and reep the rewards.. 🍀🇮🇪

[@helenwaldron5858]

He's a twat is also a theory. 👍😂😂😂😂

[@derp195]

@@helenwaldron5858 Are you lost?

[@tomjplays6414]

@@helenwaldron5858 funny

[@MovieGasm]

You nailed it on this one Russell. Sounded just like my own story. Drug addiction is only a symptom of the issues that plague someone’s mind. Have to find the root causes of the ‘symptom’ in order to alleviate the sense of dependency.

[@ulriklange3924]

Gabor Mate = For more information on this!! 💪 ... All adiction, is due to trauma, in the first 8 years of life... Streangt to All, from Denmark.

[@skeletalremains3860]

@@ulriklange3924 not all addiction is due to trauma AND some auctions are caused by trauma after 8 years of age. I was a heroin and cocaine addict for 32 years so I've spoken to a lot of addicts. They're are done who had great families and great childhoods but they will tell you they were always sad or they just didn't fit in with other kids so they felt lonely and drugs made them either more friendly or to not care about friendships. The reasons for addictions are as complicated and varied as the number of people in the world. With that said, Russel was absolutely right about having to address the underlying reasons for your addiction in order to achieve lasting sobriety!

[@slicedbread5692]

​@@skeletalremains3860I have had a great life. I was always popular and friendly. I did drugs because they were fun. It has never been about hiding depression or running from problems. They feel good.

[@Osiris_fc]

He has enough charisma to be a cult leader. I'm really glad he rather chooses to help people.

[@Huckabuck]

Just watch and learn and you can be that cult leader, Stephan 👍

[@yogarosmaninho9658]

You mean he didn't invite you? Oh dear...

[@flaplaya]

Lol I often feel like he's a messiah. Extremely smart and glowing with charisma

[@pretary1845]

This is exactly the person who could be viewed as a "Prophet" or furthermore, used that image to propel themselves to power. Power may have corrupted many of the greatest minds and philosophers over time, and I would certainly consider Russell to be Philosopher of sorts.. But it's so interested seeing someone who was able to have the fame, women, money, and the power that comes with that at an age that gave him enough time to realize NONE of that is the ultimate goal. He's truly an example that money, power, and fame do not lead to happiness... Inversely, doing AWAY with some of that is almost necessary to find the ability in yourself to appreciate the world the way it is, the best you can, in a way that doesn't bother or even better-- positively benefits those around you. Obviously financial security is necessary, and poverty and happiness are inverse to each other, but only to the degree of being truly financially stable, and somewhat liberated. And that's the hole in much of our society... And he points out that exploitation, and advocates for not just racial, but EQUITABLE equality among classes. Sure I watch politics, I know about Big Tech companies. But knowing isn't always the answer, and Russell has definitely helped me change the way I THINK about the things I learn, and the impact they have in a BROAD spectrum, and I thank him for that.

[@michaeljacksonquohtes8862]

I would study that cult

[@deaconfarley841]

One month clean. I nearly lost my girlfriend whom is pregnant with our first baby because I couldn’t put the rolled up note down. Old habits die hard. I’m not losing them for powder. Wish people spoke about addiction more. 10 years of my life wasted getting high. I’m 26 but I know the best Is yet to come with a clean and sober mind too.

[@MrEdlawrence]

You young brother! Keep your head up and never ever go back. But the reality is , is that you might. Be ready before if you do though. Have a plan of action ready. I've been there and it is the worst feeling being in a cloud addiction as you watch your whole life crumble beneath you. I know, I know. It happens so quickly for us too..like a snowball. If it feels good we hit it hard because we love love love the instant gratification. But we have to realize we can never get away from life and ourselves. We are always here. I'd rather live a life that seems boring ie: wife kids job repeat, than a life of chasing and destroying and in the end losing everything. Much love bro. I've been clean for over a year and am more bored and happier than ever!! Peace

[@fredyscanlan]

You are well young enough to turn that waste around. I’m in the same boat as you but I’m 41, and I’m confident I can still be successful-you got 15 years on me. Stay strong:)

[@fredyscanlan]

@@MrEdlawrence bored and happy! I can’t wait. Boredom is my trigger usually:)

[@deaconfarley841]

Unfortunately addiction has no age but you guys are giving me more faith. Just got a new job and I’m hoping this will give me the boost I need. Lost so many jobs through it in the past. But I have a family to think of now. Stay strong brothers 🙌🏻

[@loosecannon6142]

Wow how sad. Poor drug addicts feeling all those highs with their drugs.

[@raggedyhaggity250]

When Amy Winehouse died, i remembered you were one of the few ppl in the media who expressed real regret and upset at her death and how ppl were talking abt her. I didn't realize then but i did hear rumors that you were an addict yourself. But still i respect you very much, you defended amy and now you are living free from addiction. God bless you

[@tomcallaghan6060]

He’s been clean for over 15 years so was a well known recovering addict at that time.

[@saraivatoledo1842]

Amy Whinehouse was one of the most blatant cases of exploitation of an individual´s gift through negligence and facilitation even . All those people in her inner circle who facilitated and made her go on stage/work in that state are criminals , leeches sucking their host´s blood basically . They claim lack of knowledge and similar ludicrous excuses . They knew , as I do , that she would never straighten herself out in Camden Town ffs , she needed a good stint in rehab which she could easily afford , as long as needed - would be that easy to get her where Russell is nowadays regarding addiction . Oh well , speculation and " If"s ... not that in matters now , but in hindsight - " who needs enemies with friends like that " , no doubt about that .

[@bridgettschreuder5708]

Love Amy🙏❤️

[@stevendaly3680]

Thank you. I was a addict. . Great to say was? ... still fighting my demons. I think people should not judge anyone. By the grace of God go I. .. who died and made you a judge. .. your the same as everyone else. We all might get it one day ... we are all human beings. .? .. here for a short time.

[@stevendaly3680]

Society today .if you are doing well. There out to destroy you... imagine. The song by John lenon. . All the people. Not the few.. Amy needed to be taken away from were she was. .. let her do her music. .. not hounded. . Then hounded in her own head.... times you need to take a step back.. not in someone's face 24,7... seen Amy when got out of the car on motorway totally pissed off. With everything and everyone. .. when she said all I wanted was to make fucking music. Not all this...?

[@MrBaronCabron]

Currently in a battle with alcoholism. Long, tiring, ruined everything I've ever loved and had. Starting from step 1 again. Hopefully this is the last time I fall. 1 week in, 1 day at a time. I'm stronger than a glass bottle of fermented wheat.

[@forzafestiva1]

Discomfort is your friend ... Use that line as motivation my friend hope it helps

[@anelafarrar-ivey5295]

It is never too late, and there is always hope. I always try to tell myself on the bad days, that tomorrow is a new day and I can try again. My other mantra, is that perfection isn't the goal, healing is.

[@PerfectStranger1623]

If you’ve religiously followed Step 1, its half the battle won. Doesn’t mean the remaining half is a cake walk. According to me, making amends is the most challenging part.

[@HumanimalChannel]

Hey Baldrino Sorry to hear what you are going through. Please try what worked for me THE SINCLAIR METHOD. Take naltrexone one hour before alcohol. So...you're not stopping drinking.. you're taking naltrexone one hour before, though, every single time. It fixes the addiction in your brain... it's a miracle. So be serious about stopping because.. it works :) I did make a couple of brief videos about it but there's info out there. Take care Let me know if you do it! Please try.💛

[@chrismckell5353]

@@forzafestiva1 I like that line as man who is an alco it's something to take on board.

[@warrenpeace8304]

It's always comforting to hear another recovered addict's story. It gives hope to those who's lives are lived in darkness. I will never go back down that road. It's a dead end

[@nultymusic7758]

6 years clean and sober here. Actually had the privilege of hearing Russell speak at a rehab here in CT not that long ago. One day at a time 🙏

[@iracarter2794]

Congratulations on your 6 years

[@aj3530]

congrats!!

[@wittymonk3y346]

That’s great news! 👏

[@gerardbeukes3929]

You mind if I ask what CT means? Grats by the way

[@nultymusic7758]

@@gerardbeukes3929 thanks brotha, CT is Connecticut.

[@assajventress3204]

The worse thing about getting clean is the period of Anhedonia (the inability to feel joy) afterwards that makes you just run back to it. And you never know how long it will take for your brain to re adjust to normal levels of pleasure hormones and start feeling joy again.

[@Lofilifer1]

Same goes for someone who has severe depression. I experimented with almost everything, but mostly weed, alcohol, and acid. I think the LSD partly caused my depression to worsen and ongoing Anhedonia to this day and that was 20 years ago. I really like opioids but can stop. Hmm... maybe depression should be treated in more of a 12 step kind of way... wonder if that would be effective at all? I mean for God’s sake I’ve had my brain “tapped” with basically an MRI machine (TMS), done everything short of ECT. LSD is fucking evil. Thanks US government.

[@silverbackanimal7215]

@@Lofilifer1 become addicted to exercise and working out . Really does fix everything if you can do it

[@janycebrown4071]

It gets better ❤️🙏

[@katee8147]

This is interesting, I have attracted alcoholics/smokers who hid it from me. Breaking away from them has that similiar hiatus of feeling. Common shared effect of addictive substances in our lives?

[@janycebrown4071]

@@katee8147Ending a relationship with a narcissist, can be exactly like going through withdrawal from a n opioid! It's incredibly hard to leave and it takes some time to DETOX from THEM 👌

[@conspiracymommycanada68]

6 yrs clean an sober been a hell of a struggle but I survived an made it threw still hard every day I can beat this ♥️

[@PerfectStranger1623]

6 years sober? You’re the iron lady! Lots of love and good vibes

[@girlonfire8405]

I like you. Hope you feel amazing. Lots of love💖

[@tenbears2335]

My wife (Girlfriend at the time) wasn't having any of it. I ended up choosing a hot, smart , beautiful Viking Princess over all the garbage I was self medicating with and it was the best decision I ever made. 30 + years together now, 4 kids and still going strong. She literally saved my life.

[@OmmNomNomNomTom]

Lucky!!

[@ayvenmoon]

Love is the best medicine. So happy for you!

[@ronf7468]

So she is a DRUG ❤️👍

[@llamatreee]

Lol

[@gking2709]

I came to this same crossroad, mine ended the other way. The drugs won and we got divorced

[@covid6sdf257]

62 years sober and clean here

[@Bumblebee-jl3ur]

Good job! 👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿

[@mssuccessful4138]

@Tom Sawyer Your a joker

[@fucksake893]

You're 62 years old aren't ya.?

[@FartCakes]

Idgaf

[@nastasch]

195 thumbs up....... really?? ffs

[@demilyn7266]

I’m “Mama Proud” of you. For your sobriety and being humble enough to share. THE BEST CHRISTMAS PRESENT I received was from my son when he was @25 was a year of sobriety chips for his his 1st year of sobriety.❤️ 👏🏆👏

[@wittymonk3y346]

I was lying to myself. I’m 6 months without any drugs including alcohol. I feel so much better, life has a clarity to it. I’ve never looked back. Yoga and meditation has helped me significantly. If I can do it, anyone can.

[@feralLove]

@Deneisha Ellis 🙏💗💪

[@wittymonk3y346]

BDom Thank you. All the best to you.

[@mack_73]

@Deneisha Ellis Stay strong and keep fighting. I know it's difficult now, but in a couple of years you look back and feel so proud of yourself. I know because I've been there too! ♥️

[@katee8147]

Great news !

[@kri8beats778]

@Deneisha Ellis You can do it! Believe in you

[@BellaZ209]

I’ve been struggling with my alcohol addiction since I was 16 years old when I lost my mother 2 weeks before my 16th birthday. I’ve have had many years being of sober and possibly an equal amount of years using alcohol as a coping mechanism. It was only until 2020 when I realized I had a problem, and until 2021 when I realized I needed to do something about it to survive and live a long and fulfilling stimulated life. I checked myself into rehab this year 2021 and learned so much about my addiction and how I combined and apply my issues & turmoils & and every negative aspect of my lif e together to make excuses for myself. I can honestly say that facing my problems head on has been the best thing I’ve ever done. I’ve been living my BEST life ever since and encourage you all to do the same ❤️

[@daveshaw5293]

That's the correct thing to do well done you ! You've fixed yourself by addressing the issue instead of drinking..

[@BellaZ209]

@@daveshaw5293 thank you so much. It means a lot. It’s still hard though

[@daveshaw5293]

@@BellaZ209 it will be bella but life is hard just keep going and doing what makes you happy 👍

[@BellaZ209]

@@daveshaw5293 thank you! I appreciate that

[@daveshaw5293]

@@BellaZ209 your welcome

[@luiseduardogomezdearandaju723]

Russell Brand: First time I heard of him I thought "Who is this clown and why is his haircut so offensive to my eyes?" A few years later: This man is more interesting & cultured than 99.9% of all actors/musicians you've ever heard of.

[@streetracervti]

100%

[@Guilhem74]

Yep, same here!

[@applemyomg]

It's okay. I thought the same thing about his hair...

[@TheAron4444]

Prick

[@TheAron4444]

Your nothing

[@KittyCatFurbabiesMaria1972]

You’re a good guy Russel, my husband and I met u some years ago and u were very humble and polite and kind and spent time with ur “fans” even when u were being told to basically hurry up , u met and spoke to each person who wanted to get ur autograph, photo and shake ur hand - Thankyou for still being u xxx

[@Andrew-ri5qo]

Got sober 21 years ago and it's easily the best thing I ever did.

[@Andrew-ri5qo]

@the big bad duck Care to clarify your comment?

[@Andrew-ri5qo]

@the big bad duck Cool👍

[@Andrew-ri5qo]

@the big bad duck Same to you mate. Keep up the good work.

[@g.t4545]

I’ve done a cocaine binge for 3 days as from this evening I feel shame with guilt from tomorrow it’s gets better .! I’m giving up, and try to battle my withdrawal symptoms and change my negativity in to positive VIBES ⭐️❤️🌈 I’ll been doing recreationally for 14 years .!!! For ME it’s all about motivation determination willpower selfcontrol.

[@Andrew-ri5qo]

@@g.t4545 Well done mate, your life will be much better without it. Hopefully the withdrawals will settle down soon and I wish you all the best.

[@anthonyelwick3600]

I really like how he's matured and is so open about his past

[@gorhamcj1]

My son is recovering 💙 . So glad you put these videos out for parents who never took drugs and want to understand their loved ones pain and addiction.

[@QuistJam]

4:10 TRUTH BOMB on tech addiction 💥

[@rolandtomassi3486]

Definitely as I stare into the work hole of KZbin

[@adaydreamhd]

Porn addiction would've bee *such* a smooth transition. bc its more commonly seen as a problem

[@adamf.4823]

QUIST!!!! Dude you have the best backing tracks on here! I use them constantly! Thanks man! Congrats on the new album.... Fuckin’ Quist bro, far out.

[@EggBear]

@@adamf.4823 it's a small world 🙃

[@baileeza9502]

Addiction is all around us in this day & age. Sad world. Most humans judge INE another without. Noticing their own disease & addiction

[@user-zy7wv2fk8i]

I love the way he speaks. It’s likes. Giant run on sentence yet he never sounds illiterate

[@Jamesp1972]

an insanely coherent talker

[@Whol3NothaL3v3l]

His speech pattern is what people's thoughts sound like before they're processed and spoken aloud.

[@od1401]

From one addict to another you can definitely tell he's been through it. Anyone who's been through it knows and even as he talks about it you just feel that huge shadow and weight above your shoulders

[@davidbarbour8887]

Fuck yeah! I got 25 years. Currently few weeks clean. I have done it all also. Dude is in point like fuck

[@VEE3RDEYE]

So happy you made it out, an inspiration

[@jaimerachelle2636]

How do you still have a platform after being caught with underage girls?

[@saralouisev3436]

J’aime literally

[@hellooutsiders6865]

Him and SteveO

[@louiebeardsmore5361]

Nonce

[@wild-child6521]

Hey when are ya Gunna upload again. Love your channel

[@sjf4387]

I find it so difficult to express in words the hell on Earth an addicts reality is.

[@h.boylen6334]

Nobody understands unless they have experienced it too.

[@anti_western_eugenicists]

I was never addicted to nothing but I saw many people addicted including friends mine that becamed less friends because they started living in a parallel world. Some died from AIDS others from hépatite C others even comited suicide by overdoses and others on stupid accidents. Was devastating for people at "my" time. I lost some very nice friends girls and boys.

[@Soul-OnFire]

The stigma is unreal. Hell on Earth and then some. Getting well is difficult, but possible. Just keep trying to get well. Good luck!

[@glowgirl8171]

@@mavis3916 And that's a chip up the nose for you.

[@mavis3916]

@@glowgirl8171 Wang yang kipper tang

[@hancrus]

The book “The Addictive Personality” got me clean. Not immediately, but the knowledge in that book opened my eyes to the spiritual problems that my addiction caused and also did not fix.

[@delilasloan8914]

I want to read it

[@lanreolatunbosun7120]

Jesus is the answer

[@ancianoanciano1242]

@@lanreolatunbosun7120 Religion is a hell of a drug, numbs your reality

[@LoveFaithLive]

@@ancianoanciano1242 It actually gets you into the right reality, or the *real* reality. Believe first, then you'll see, says the Bible.

[@ancianoanciano1242]

@@LoveFaithLive If you belive, you are condicioned and not orjebtive. Belive in us! don´t cuenstion anytrhing,! god need your money!

[@stevenspilly]

I never in my wildest dreams thought I'd find myself in complete awe of Russell Brandt. Full respect to you Sir.

[@Ravenheart_]

Good on you, Russell, and all the other recovering addicts in the comments, for putting in the work getting & staying clean. It takes a hell of a person to make big changes. More power to all of you.

[@shoshannahbrynjonessquare7002]

I loved this: “What it’s like to be an addict is to live in the problem of your psyche.”

[@jordanm6940]

Nailed it.

[@carlranger8060]

Stopped drinking (finally) May 9th 1987 at twenty seven years of age. Carved out a great life with a wonderful family and career except I hadn't addressed the issues that led me to drinking. All went pretty well for the first twenty years or so. Then I started to suffer from depression (high pressure job), went on antidepressants. Went that stopped working started drinking industrial amounts of coffee (9 espressos) a day. Then I developed a chronic disease (ulcerative colitis). Then twenty seven years and two weeks after my last drink, I started again. Went ok' ish for the first year, then absolute carnage for the next three. Stopping again at fifty eight was on different level tough. Two years seven months sober again. Mostly good days now but I nearly lost everything, including my life.

[@josiieize2.0]

Wow that’s amazing, good job buddy, glad you’re still here!!

[@KristieKillick]

I’m really happy for you that you are clean and never gave up

[@carlranger8060]

@@KristieKillick Thank you for your kind words.

[@carlranger8060]

@@josiieize2.0 Thank you my friend!

[@andij605]

aww take care of that liver and bowels and all ❤️

[@AspectRatioYT]

The way he says "you know this from your own life" shows his genius. He's including the listener in the conversation, allowing them to add a personal element to the conversion just through memory recall

[@enricopallazzo3244]

Thought the exact same thing. Brilliant comment.

[@patsyhodge9071]

He absolutely does. I love your comment.

[@AspectRatioYT]

@@patsyhodge9071 thank you for the kind comment

[@semird615]

Smoked weed through my adolescence till early 20’s. Tried come once, messed prescription drugs from time to time and had periods where I drunk a lot. I can say I wasted my best years, messed a lot of relationships up, disappointed amd dissrespected my parents and God knows how many people I pushed away from myself unknowningly. My life was basically on autopilot, no plans. I didn’t know what I’m going to do or how I’m gonna do it. I knew I was intelligent but my bad attitude, friends and work ethic made me do bad at school so getting into college was basically impossible. School doesn’t mean that much where I’m from but I still managed to get a nice degree. It came to the point where I had to be honest with myself, I had to confront the truth even though I didn’t really want to. I was a loser with a shitty job, no chicks, no car and a group of friends that were all bums and stuck just like I was. I quit weed out of anger and hate, hate for myself, for where my life is going and who I’m surrounding by. I never thought bud could consume your life like that, it was basically the only activity I took part in, and everyone around me was a stoner. I started working out, found a better job, travelled a bit and finally had a real dating life. The only good thing about weed was eating and sleeping, because I’m usually quite an anxious person, but sometimes weed would make me feel awful. I would get anxious and paranoid on another level, weed kinda intensifies everything you experience and when it’s bad it’s horrible. I got to the point where I couldn’t stand it no more, the process of it, the people, the stories, the places, the paranoia everything was so monotonous and repetitive and the highs weren’t enjoyable anymore. When you quit you realize a lot of things, and it can be tough to swallow. A lot of my “friends” turned their back to me completely because I’m not contributing to their smoke sessions anymore. Some of them dead ass got mad at me and felt uncomfortable if I was around when they’d smoke. I felt hurt for a while but I should’ve known what the only link to us was, that’s all we did pretty much. Looking at them now it’s like they’re not real people no more, it’s almost like they’re walking stoner stereotypes. They’re never serious, always broke, unreliable, unresponsible, complaining and delusional. The worst thing about it all is that I was the same way, and during that time I truly hated my life and just tried to cover it up with smoke and that’s what they’re still doing.

[@NickSwaindog]

Can’t even explain why but reading this felt like it his sent some message to my brain telling me that I need to pattern up

[@semird615]

@@NickSwaindog this isnmy experience with weed, and ut just isn’t for me, never was. It’s impossible for me to be productive when smoking, but I’ve seen people who don’t really have a problem like that.

[@NickSwaindog]

@@semird615 as my relationship with cannabis grows I realise it needs to be treated like any habit like alcohol, use it as a reward never become dependent on it. Weed has a reputation that it is completely perfect and has no negative aspects but it’s not the case. Like any habit you need to keep it under control and balanced. I feel like I have abused bud so much and allowed it to control my life, used it as an escape a lot to drown out my feelings and when u start smoking for the wrong reasons you can really dig yourself a hole. Thing is I see so many benefits with that plant but like anything too much of it is harmful it’s all about balance. I think the correct way to consume bud is to treat it as a reward and only smoke when you deserve it and have done something productive throughout the day to distance the relationship and to allow u to have a barrier between your real life and priorities and then weed. Idk that’s just what I b thinking, what do u think?

[@dontworry4724]

Fuck man I needed this comment I’ve been thinking of quitting weed for a while but it’s hard especially when you start smoking it to cure boredom

[@semird615]

@@dontworry4724 when you’re used to smoking regularly, especially in the evening quitting can result in loss of sleep. I remember twisting and turning im my bed unable to sleep. Thinking back that was the most difficult part about quitting. I often thought about smoking just before bed so I could sleep but that wouldn’t always work either. You’d have to come down first before going to bed, and I’ll be honest sleeping and eating were the most enjoyable thing about weed. I’m in a transitional period in my life and weed was just a bad habit at this time. I’m not saying weed will ruin your life, you just have to have your shit together properly and do it moderately with the right folks. I so miss it from time to time but I don’t want to mess up the streak that I’m on at the moment.

[@sole__doubt]

Hardest part isn't getting clean, its harder to stay clean. I had to basically overhaul my whole life. I had to cut ties with certain friends and family members which was probably the hardest part. I've been clean for 14 months now and its getting easier but the first few months were the hardest thing I've had to do in my life and I'm 42.

[@zazuzazz5419]

Brandon P 504 Be brave. And, stay free.

[@MARSBELLA1]

Feel ya buddy - worse thing is if you have a family member who is deliberately trying to sabatoge you that you cant cut out of your life...

[@carolinebean6926]

Brandon P 504 luv and hugs 🤗

[@wittymonk3y346]

Well done! I had to cut ties with old friends that were like brothers to me, it broke my heart but I couldn’t keep hanging out with them because drugs were always involved. I feel your pain but glad you’ve been clean for so long!

[@lanalekopoy6154]

You said it!! Total overhaul is sometimes needed. Its not as easy as some may think when your family is the trigger.

[@luash5073]

Russel gives me “crazy” scientist or professor vibes. Seems like his mind is constantly being overloaded with new ideas and information every split second of the day.

[@momomils2982]

He gives me serial killer vibes. It’s kinda scary that so many people are attracted to his personality.

[@PlaceboEllie]

ADHD lol

[@momomils2982]

@@brideystar I watched primarily because it popped up in my feed. I also find serial killers fascinating.

[@matthewbennett2735]

That is an incredibly boorish comment to spew out.

[@mave143]

@@matthewbennett2735 do you know the meaning of 'boorish'? Because that comment wasn't boorish at all. Keep a dictionary close by when you comment.

[@donnah.3779]

I know this is an older video but I watched a few of your addiction videos today. I’ve been following you on Instagram for awhile now and appreciate your perspective on so many topics, but I thought I should see what it was like for you when you were in the grips of addiction. As a nurse, I’ve had many patients with addiction problems and I guess what breaks my heart the most is that you can actually see their souls disappearing from their eyes. I’m so happy that you found a way out of this and have love and happiness in your life. I see a clarity in your eyes now and I appreciate your videos so much. You are helping so many people with your honesty; sharing your quest for enlightenment and peace is truly inspiring. I’m following you on that subject, hoping every day to be a better person.

[@ext93]

"I quit cocaine 1000 times and one day it finally stuck." One of my favorite quotes from stand up Joey Coco Diaz

[@alanperez7657]

Hes a drug addict tho lol

[@ext93]

@@alanperez7657 do you live with him?

[@ext93]

@Jamie McCarthy the quote was specifically about cocaine, I didn't say anything about anything else. Also, it seems from his newer podcasts that he has stopped both edibles and smoking. And he's never talked about DMT so idk where that came from

[@ext93]

@Jamie McCarthy alright, so what is your point? We all know Joey was an addict and has addictive tendencies to some degree, but he stopped cocaine which is known to be difficult to stop. The point of the statement is if you want to stop doing something it may take many tries but don't give up because it eventually will stick.

[@jdc4316]

@Jamie McCarthy lol psychedelics aren’t addictive right off the bat, nobody gets hooked on them. Prescription drugs are medicine and so it isn’t an ‘addiction’ as such. And regular cannabis users aren’t inherently ‘drug addicts’.

[@jamesstarter359]

I've never heard somebody describe addiction so perfectly

[@gman1gman161]

I remember when I was young and just addicted to alcohol and a few year's of drugs addiction . I consider my self gifted with good genetics. I could've been better. But just waisted so many years in the addiction. So selfish and always blaming others. Selfish towards my family and wife and kids . Tired of waking up sick and embarrassed. But one day I saw reality and just woke up . And got sober. I'm thank full that I was able to get clean . It's been years I've been sober and I still look good. But I always wonder what if I never had touched this addiction. I would of been great. Thank you

[@funmioh]

So happy to see Russell Brand sitting so peacefully in his purpose. Every time I see him it feels so good.

[@georgefindlay1982]

He was NEVER a drug addict only ever a drug user/abuser,,,trying to play the part of an ex addict is very sad hope he gets help,

[@keeleyburton4263]

When I was growing up, my mum would see him in gossip magazines and I never thought much of him. Recently I’ve seen recent interviews and I am proud to see this transformation. Russel, if you see this, you are now my new idol for continuing my sobriety. I am 11 months sober, and I have much desire to continue. You are now just another reminder of what I can do. Thank you.

[@mccabessupplementsandgym3913]

I used to think Russell was a nob but he's actually sound

[@veitmyani663]

Even if you don't watch the whole thing you should also checkout this interview from him in 2012. He has a lot of rly good stuff to say on this subject. kzbin.info/www/bejne/hZCveah_fpKdj7M (I say interview lightly)

[@malachigrey4895]

How british

[@jasonnoble7814]

You had a blast don't lie. Then things went to shit and you stopped. You had too much of a good time. Now you're on the word salad. Lol

[@histochronos]

Same.

[@SHIZZLE71]

Same Ngl. Not in terms of personality. Just his comedy pissed me off 🤣 but he seems like a good guy

[@ChristinaKingBadandBruja]

I met him at a meeting off sunset. I was late, but to this day I’ve wanted to speak again. He’s a lovely energy.

[@Random-mom]

I’m one minute in and you just gave me chills when you explained spiritual dimensions and how all addicts search for that. Thank you so much for making this video

[@paulmoore4223]

I had a relationship with a wonderful, kind, confident intelligent woman. A year later i was trapped with partner who was a daily user and drinker. I effectively became her carer. I stopped drinking, I've never used ant drugs. She was, likely is, a high ranking respected manager. 3 years on, i lost my job, my house, my income, a wonderful partner and my mental wellbeing after a breakdown. I now have a criminal record after false charges. In my humble opinion, drugs destroy lives, not just the user but those who care for them. I would like ro send my love and support to anyone with an addiction issue but especially those around them

[@katee8147]

I am so sorry for your situation. I discovered my partner is an alcoholic through covid. He won’t get help. I am exhausted. He has given up but has taken up smoking which I am allergic to & eats everything all at once. He is huge! He can’t communicate anymore. I am so alone.

[@hongkongtennis]

Kate Miller. I know how it feels. My partner ended up leaving me mid covid. It was and still is terrible 5 months later. Speaking with a close friend and a counsellor has really helped.

[@paulmoore4223]

@@katee8147 hi Kate. I'm so sorry for your situation. I wouldn't dare offer any advice. That said, i can so associate with that feeling of being alone, not being to tell anyone, or at least not everything. You most certainly aren't alone but i know. If you feel that you are putting his welbeing ahead of yours, that's when it went wrong for me. If you feel you can, please speak to your doctor, there are support groups out there. Alanon in the uk. Thrre is one truth, you cannot and will not change anyone elses behaviour, so please do try and care for your own wellbeing. Feel free to message anytime. Sending a hug x

[@diS6005]

Hi Paul Moore, I'm curious about what was the drug in your case.

[@mimi2613]

L

[@tharinimallikarjunan8538]

I remember watching Russell give an interview several years back and thinking to myself, will this precious life go down the route of senseless destruction or will something happen to change the course of life… I am happy that things changed and he is now using the gift of life to empower and change millions of lives… Kudos to you… Russell…

[@yamahakid450f]

He's been clean for over a decade dumb dumb

[@videostar80sduo24]

Loved the leaf on the right of the screen nodding approval throughout the video- spent a lot of time watching this wee guy.

[@orangeoranges6727]

whoever here took efforts to try to get clean, & are clean for how many ever years/weeks/days or even hours, i'm so proud of you, this must be tough but please keep going, you're doing great :)

[@malinkarlsson4656]

❤️❤️❤️😘

[@blindhouse83]

Man I felt this. I’ve been sober for almost 10 years. 1 day at a time.

[@gemmajorgensen1562]

Amazing! Congrats!

[@bluewendigo672]

Congratulations pal....✌️

[@sharkitty]

I overheard someone at the beach saying how they never tried heroin but they heard it's so addictive because it's the best pleasure you will ever feel. That may be true but I think for addicts, it takes away pain. The absence of that great emotional/physical/mental/spiritual pain such a reprieve, that it becomes preferable over reality. Physical dependence follows. One of my best friends died of an overdose, I woke up beside him the next day, but he didn't. I was trying it with him that night and that was the turning point for me. I'm 3.5yrs clean and sober now.

[@01BadAzzGoddess]

Wow I'm so sorry you had to experience losing your friend like that.

[@ibshelpbangladesh1111]

ya it takes away pain...that's the only reason

[@dublinsfaircity]

Pity it took your friend dying to change your ways but in another way his dying probably saved your life. Perhaps you will meet again sometime. Well done on getting clean brother 👍

[@ayoubzahiri1918]

Breaking bad flashbacks...

[@mickjudd9973]

so glad he's actually acknowledging the technology addiction that exists today especially amongst youth and kids

[@ed3kzz]

It’s serious. I’d been on Facebook since I was 13 years old, in my early 20’s and have rid myself of all social media platforms. Imagine using something that’s designed to be addictive for such a length of time. If it was a controlled substance it’d be massive cause for concern

[@mickjudd9973]

@@ed3kzz Yes, im considering doing the same. It's terrifying, the way it numbs everything out and there is No End to the content--you could scroll for 8 hours. And what's scarier is people actually do that.

[@mickjudd9973]

@@gordythecat That is amazing!! I admire it greatly. I dont have kids but I definitely want to cut out social media. I only really use it for the messaging aspect

[@CryptoMeow]

Wow, I absolutely LOVED how you ended this vid "what it's like to be an addict is to live in the problem of your psyche, to live in the problem of your emotions"..."what it's like to be in recovery is to face those problems head on and look for solutions (beyond drugs)". And the discussion of how an addiction often starts innocently, in the sense that we seek out these quick fix coping mechanisms to soothe ourselves in the moment. And over time, the frequency and volume of the intake only increases, but in a sort of elusive way where it creeps up on you and one day you realize it's already gotten out of control. But there is ALWAYS hope, EVERYONE is capable of change. Not saying it's easy, but in and of itself it can be simple, if you just start doing different things long enough and consistently, you CAN turn it around. As with most things that result in huge rewards, it's the staying dedicated to the steps of recovery where people fall off. Over 4 years off of the devil's juice, and I've been living a brand new life. It DOES get easier as you become the new person, with consistent action in the right direction. The more you do the difficult things, with a sober mind and body, you will see you are capable and didn't need the substance, and slowly your confidence builds...similar process of becoming an addict, except becoming anew and with INTENTION. Thank you for sharing your story, Russell!!

[@joshrivera473]

Damn this comment gave me the chills. I’m suffering from minor alcohol withdraw while reading through the comments and was getting ready to go buy some beer for the anxiety . Don’t think I was a heavy enough drinker to experience some of the more severe effects, let’s hope not I’m mentally in hell , my heart goes out to anyone fighting to get better

[@paulester369]

Thanks for sharing your experience. I have been sober for 6 months after more than 20 years of being an addict to several things: food, alcohol, weed. I worked on the root cause of my unhappiness: feelings of abandonment and not being good enough unconciously programed by my parents from when I was a baby. Now that I'm concious about that and that I worked on healing those wounds I don't feel that need to numb those feelings down, I have tapped into my power and feeling the happiest I've been

[@nicktimusprime]

Loving your content Russell! Currently almost 8 months clean here! Keep fighting the good fight brother! ❤️

[@lyannawinter405]

I find that so very brave and strong of you. You are doing it! Now I'm proud of a stranger, or say brother

[@MaynardsSpaceship]

Congratulations! I'm happy you're here. 😊

[@starsshine3664]

Congratulations 🎉🙏🏼✨❤️🔥

[@velveteenhussey]

Fantastic stuff!

[@oceanfury4219]

We may of not even met but I'm proud of you man. Continue your journey...maybe one day your story will help another ✌🌻

[@Friendlyzone99]

Hi Russell-thanks for this-it resonates for me deeply. I’ve been struggling recently, and it was strengthening to hear your story, and to be reminded of my own grapple of the psyche-I emerged from addiction (heroin, crack, meth, cocaine) some years back, and was able to find meaning through music, and eventually even earned a graduate degree in counseling psychology from Columbia University. I’ve not done anything with my degree, and I haven’t written a song in years-a depression has set in recently and I feel the dark of my past creeping around a bit. Your channel is such a light for me right now. Best to you!

[@katee8147]

Keep going - keep on - the world needs you

[@mattbray_studio]

i'd say first job, write a song. get that part of you to start moving again, see how you get on from there. you know how it works, just need to get the momentum going. keep going :)

[@Friendlyzone99]

Matt Bray Thank you for this-the same sentiment has been running through me for months now...good to hear it from outside of myself. I’ll get back there soon hopefully and create music again.

[@Friendlyzone99]

Kate Miller 💛

[@BradleyShockley]

Thank you for being so open and vulnerable about such a “taboo” subject and time in your life Russel. I was hooked on Fentanyl laced Xanax for a long ass time and it has been really hard to get away from them….

[@wendyladybug355laurie4]

Many PRAYERSNLUV 👼👼🥰🥰

[@jodiegordon5559]

I didn't know there *was* fentanyl laced xanax?! That's scary af!! Well done for getting off them! And please stay positive and strong. Whatever you do to stay off them, keep doing it! And try to get some good therapy, if u get anxiety cut out caffeine... I don't know u and I'm saying rediculous shit but I genuinely don't want u to leave us. You sound good, but just know there's 1 weird crazy girl in the UK that for some reason, gives a shit!

[@kaseyturner5405]

Omg so beautifully said! So true I was a full blown junkie for about 5 years and it was like he was me talking. At the time I thought I needed it and would never stop but now I sit and wonder what was I thinking. Been sober and loving life 4 years and so thankful. Thanks for the videos! Keep um coming!

[@oscartouze2113]

The way he speaks it fast and messy but somehow i managed to follow everything perfectly. I loved it

[@shobushogun2405]

Thanks for sharing your story on addiction. The way you're teaching and guiding others on a better path from your own experiences is so inspirational and amazing to see. It's very rare to see someone as famous and wealthy as you truly trying to help others and your takes on everything are so profound and insightful. I never would've guessed you were like this as a person until I got to know you better from your youtube channel. From the bottom of my 26 year old heart, thank you for everything my friend.

[@Ilovethisgame79]

This guy is another level seriously. To see an addict that’s become so confident an massively more importantly become so comfortable in his own skin. That’s not a given, that’s took a hell of a lot of work, day after day. My biggest problem unable to sit in my own skin feeling at peace.

[@aidan9876]

Three phrases that help me in addiction: - "There will be change." - "Anything but that." (For your worst problem) - "that was then, this is now." (When you fixate on past choices being the right thing to do - to help you move along.) Sleeping in - the darkness can be an addiction. Getting up in the morning will help.

[@patrickwolf5796]

Thank you. Every time you said something I would have disputed, you explained the correct version of what it's like as an addict. I,... like you , spent most of my youth just using some beer and weed but...after my divorce and Bi - polar was getting worse I fell into that complicacy that is "well this is my life now". Crack was my thing. I spent 6 years as an addict and it got to the point that I would rather die than continue to live as I was. Deterioration of my normalcy was staggering. The consequences of my using was worse than the thought of getting clean. I was saved and clean 6 years now but I will never forget the agony of that darkness of my choices. Thank God I had a mother and faith to remove myself from the area, life and dependence of the drugs. Thanks for this video, it made me feel like I wasn't the only one who hated myself during the addiction years but have loved that I face my life now head on. Great explanation to those who never had the hell of that life choice.

[@jessicadepue78]

Russell, I’m deeply grateful that you’re alive. I’m so thankful to be sober today, and for having found friendships in sobriety. Deeply deeply thankful for the beautiful, kind, sweet man you are in sobriety and that our paths have crossed so that I may feel personal inspiration from a funny and wise soul such as yours. You have inspired me to stick around.❤️

[@xColinMalarkeyx]

Something has happened to me over the past days. Alcohol has just consumed my days. Granted I’ve been responsible and haven’t hurt anyone. I’ve been crying every I’d say 15 mins. I am completely physically exhausted. I feel it hasn’t gotten to the extreme but it’s teetering over the edge. I’m about 6’1 and I’ve lost so much weight thru 2020. I’ve tried connecting thru people with programs specialized with the experience I’ve been going thru and that hasn’t worked for me. I am absolutely not in the green. But, Russel your channel helps. It’s helped me. Right now I have a lot of work to do but this channel and your wisdom is helping me. I don’t want you to worry that I’m “dependent “ on this for my success. But, it is a light where there is darkness. Thank you sir

[@angelangel1]

You are not alone. You have the strenght and willpower to overcome your weaknesses and it's inside you. You'll get better.

[@assajventress3204]

"Imagine a time when you crawled into bed, and you were so comfortable, like after a long night shift, and you are the confiest you have ever felt. Now multiply that feeling by 100. But. Now imagine that you can never feel that again nomatter what you do. Nomatter how much you take, you can never quite seem to feel as amazing as that first time, and suddenly you arent comfortable in bed at all anymore without it". -katya zamologikova, re: drugs. (Heroin)

[@FedUpSouthernGirl]

Most accurate description ever. Just want to sleep or get to a place where there no pain...only numbness....and sleep for days, even years. Without the drug, that same bed becomes your jester, laughing at you r desire for sleep as your insides scream out and you claw the mattress in agony.

[@olatron]

Quite true, heroin does make you feel very comfortable, unnaturally so. Once you give up you'll never feel like that again and that's a hard truth of giving it up.

[@chadmcclain3462]

Frfr 👏🏽💯

[@mellie9633]

Because one tosses and turns and kicks, sweats, makes promises, begs, crawls, sobs, shivers...the dragon is turning and it's beating the shit out of you. Too many withdrawals like that in terrible places you either finally give up and surrender your powerlessness , die or live the mediocore life I made my choice and glad I did, happy and sober 10 years.

[@lunes1482]

But my dad just calls her Katya

[@MapwithMatthew91]

great watch, I was a addict for most of my early 20s, I got sober when I was around 25. I was sober for 3 years and life was great until my sister died of cancer last year. I got back using to cover the pain but I'm now 3 months clean again. stay strong everyone this is my second time doing this and it can be done ! the first 6 months is the hardest but after that life gets so much bette

[@richardmaloney6452]

I’ve written a book on Amazon. Each Time My Eyes Open. It’s my own experience. Marie Maloney

[@John-jl3ky]

I hear your brother, I’m a recovering addict myself. We’re all miracles

[@kathyborthwick6738LakotaEmoji]

The most articulate and humane explanation of an addict that I have ever heard! 🦅☀️🦅👵🏽🦅☀️🦅

[@kim_possible1974]

Thank you Russell. Your life is a testament of healing and hope.

[@Bawby4489]

Much respect to Russell for overcoming his addictions and getting to a place where he can manage them. I've struggled with drink and drug addictions so I can appreciate the effort it takes to stay clean.

[@JeffCopperHead]

Being addicted to drugs is like being in love with a very bad destructive person.

[@cheesecakelasagna]

The latter is an actual addiction in of itself.

[@drunkpaulocosta]

@@cheesecakelasagna i'dsay a more common and easier trap to fall into also

[@brickstep8424]

No…..no it’s not

[@evija1159]

I raise you both

[@ivanreese7087]

Yes and the destructive person is you

[@emelle9705]

As the adult child of an addict (Vietnam Vet father) my perspective is a little different. Here’s something many addicts don’t necessarily see: you create an addiction in those immediately around you because they learn to live within that chaos and that, too becomes an addiction of a sort. It creates a lifelong internal battle within those you love and that is equally devastating to their psychological health as drugs are to the physical health. Here I sit, typing this after thirty years of counseling and what I now know is the most important thing I wish I could have said to my father is this, “I understand how hard it is overcoming what’s inside your own mind, but I love you and I forgive you. You have to forgive yourself.”

[@phoenixmoon5580]

Picture him and say it out loud. If you can stand in front of a mirror with your eyes open at the same time as picturing him then it is better, but if not then repeat the words in front of a mirror with your eyes open. The reason: As much as you feel the need to say it to your Father, you need to say it twice as much to yourself.

[@joshywilliam4690]

I came across this the other day and I can finally say this man has been able to explain not only addiction but the reasoning for it in such a knowledgeable way,this was such a needed video the positivity but brutal honesty combined. This needs more shares etc more people need to see this!

[@maryyy718]

Thank you for bringing awareness to this, Russel. It's been 4 years since I last used heroin. I never thought I'd be able to stop, my pain was just too deep and I had no other solution at the time (so I thought.) All I know is therapy saved my life. If anyone has a past of abuse, PLEASE talk to someone about it, so much healing and hope can be found in that.

[@amyhudson1016]

Couldn’t agree more about the looking for an “emotional connection”. Having a belief system of sorts gives us something familiar to lean back into when having tough times.

[@evaschoedin7789]

Thank you once again Russell, for having the strength to be "naked" and authentic. What comes to mind listening to your experiences is "old soul" (or highly sensitive or lightworker I guess...), because an old soul is often very creative and wants to make a change in the world, and it can be hard to live in a competitive society that feels foreign to who we really are. Addiction can be devastating, but it's ultimately a method to try to cope with the life around us because we haven't yet found the peace and strength within ourselves. I guess that's an experience many of us go through to come out of it and be able to share and help others like you're doing. Keep up the good work!💕

[@kristinefaulkner6035]

Wow. Thanks RB for being so brave, honest and articulate in describing this to your audience. I think it's so important for people to know and understand what drives people to addiction and what keeps them in addiction, as well as what it's like to live in addiction. So many have a perceived notion and a ton of opinions. So thank you.

[@wayneconners2614]

The part about needing an elder to guide a person into adulthood was so important and so glad you said it. In all my work for sobriety, I’ve never heard anyone say that in all the meetings or in treatment. Thank you

[@jettoth3]

Thank you, Russell. I can easily relate to your story. When I was 17 years old, I found that alcohol and weed helped me to partially overcome my social anxiety, especially at parties and other social gatherings. I was most insecure about my future, because I didn't know myself well enough at age 17, to have a clue about what sort of work I ought to pursue in life. Thinking about my future made me terrified. I felt lonely and unprepared, and I had no idea how to prepare myself for adult responsibilities. Nearly all of my friends had some kind of a plan for their future. I was the odd one without a plan, and I felt so lost and alone. So I used alcohol and marijuana to help me cope with my horrible insecurities. Naturally, the drugs only made my stagnation worse. Now I'm age 65 and doing great! I feel as though I know you personally, and we're good friends! I sense that you are a creative and empathetic person. You are a true inspiration to millions of people around the world. Love you, man!

[@AbdurahiimRoberts]

I find this extraordinarily fascinating. I will always remember one thing that Russell said which is that once he became an addict he never stopped being an addict he just learned how to control his addiction.

[@phoenixrising5088]

It's the same with being an alcoholic. You're always an alcoholic. You have to take it one day at a time to stay off it.

[@marysalvi242]

@Abdurahiim Roberts Let me say, if you find that fascinating then you nor anyone in your circle has been an addict or have an addictive personality. And I know there are others living that type of live...we who have a problem, can be drugs, food, sex, of course alcoholic know the truth of that, what is not really addressed imo with those of us that feel we've "controlled" our addiction is the transference of addiction and it can be so subtle or we rationalize that it's not the same, because perhaps it's a more at that time not taking over your life and maybe it never will..I possibly could be projecting onto RB my knowing when I'm out of control with shopping or something seemingly innocent "I have a salty or sweet craving" when one spends a weekend eating sugary foods or in my case salty foods, IN SPITE of my having edema. I said this in another reply, I can spot a drinker, one who needs more then 1 or 2 drinks during the time of a gathering or event. This is where I am like, oh man, RB what's happening, of course the man is hyper, combine that with his intelligence, people are impressed how he can talk and not get lost in his own topic. Yeah, he's one of those people that come along and has the right combo to get a following, though I do worry, this, his channel "possibly" could be his addictive transference. I like/love him, yet getting nervous about his state and am I watching and being a part of a decline or growth of a human being. ::sigh::

[@jordanclawson]

@@marysalvi242 You totally missed the point Mary. You’re on here to heal yet your comment shows you haven’t completely understood his teachings. You’re judging this man’s life off of one comment. A comment in which you clearly misunderstood.

[@krystinehamre7851]

I need to lay off the cell phone and weed. Thanks russel. You’re so right. I’m addicted to the emotional state. I’m trying to get something that is missing from my life out of them.

[@DuncYo]

cell phones are a strange addiction aren't they! Every ten minutes I have to check football scores, news, and see if I've got any WhatsApp messages - all night, every night... I don't get much out of doing this, except for sore eyes & a headache.

[@defaultuser7777]

Not alone

[@EIRE55]

Krystine Hamre As John Lennon sang, "How can I go forward when I don't which way I'm facing?" Once you make a decision about the direction you want to go in, stick to it by taking one step at a time, a day at a time...;-)

[@KJ-xt3yu]

@@DuncYo alert fatigue, when we install apps or create alerts we are reinforcing the use of checking the device. I bet youve got the ghost vibrations when your device isnt on you and it drives you to be irritated about not having it. I bet theres alot of people with this....

[@The_Rebels_Hike_book]

Unless you worship God, you've got a God-shaped hole you are trying to fill. That is how we were made. Download the YouVersion Bible app and give it a go. Lot's of different translations. (I like Amplified but Message is easy to read) Start with some of the 'plans' that can give you commentary around a few verses instead of diving right in perhaps. There are plans for everything from addiction, lonliness, anger....pretty much everything.

[@TheDhammaHub]

In a sense we are all addicts, but some things cause more direct harm than others...

[@sodium6388]

Big fax

[@rubyrayne8]

As an addict, I disagree. Many people in my life have no addictive qualities at all. Not substances, not their phone, not their work, not sex, just really balanced people. They key point of addiction is that you can’t stop whatever it is without adverse effects.

[@shaunpearson7905]

@@ta3970 She, He, it's not; simply lacks insight.

[@jovitabhengra]

Well yes, we can be addicted to different things. Doesn't have to be drugs.

[@johannlothe]

Ruby Rayne but me not smoking weed for 10 years, doesn’t make me less of an addict. We are all addicts, but we can still find balance. It’s not a «either you are or you’re not». We can’t control or thought and emotions, but we can choose what to do with them, that’s balance.

[@Tiger-Lilly]

I love the statement you made saying that the consequences of drug use are worse then the consequences of a life where you dont have anesthetic distractions or pleasures stimulations... I know thats a segment of a longer statement but this sooo true!!

[@zillamandy]

Thank you for this straightforward story of addiction. Your honesty is refreshing. I’m thankful that you are here, and healthy. Lucky us!

[@vice.nor.virtue]

Watching RB talking bluntly about crack addiction is the most riveting thing I’ve seen this whole year so far.

[@Nosirrah2112]

God bless you man (as you know him.) You inspire me heavily to continue seeking knowledge. As a recovering addict and anxious person, knowledge feeds my addiction. Intellectual podcasts and historical documentaries. And your fast firing well thought out interviews keep me grounded when my thoughts race. That's a big deal to me so big big thanks.

[@sbstnc2279]

This is a topic I was very curious about. Thank you Russel, with all this experience behind your back, you're one of the most inspiring men on KZbin!

[@Darkpixies]

I would like to just say Thank you Russell for becoming a pure light for those that are in a very dark place. There is so much work you have put into yourself and understanding the sickness of addiction, that will forever speak volumes about your true spirit.👍

[@cathymccall9199]

Amazing gift that he can be completely engaging and relevant in his transparency to human kind. What a beautiful thing that God had a plan to use this talented child for so many at a time such as this. Thank you Russell. Thank you Lord.

[@natalieanderson5076]

Thank you Russell for opening up to your audience about what I imagine to be a heavy topic to delve into. You should be extremely proud to have overcome such a challenging time in your life and I do believe most addiction stems from mental health and trauma which sadly many people aren't aware of and have no idea where to receive help. God bless you Russell 🙏

[@JETJOOBOY]

I think Russell's audience are well familiar....

[@----.__]

The hardest part about being an addict is acting normal around family who don't know, and knowing how they'd feel if they did know.

[@CMClaudio1989]

They're often more aware of an issue than what you think they are

[@adavison335]

I totally know what you mean....I always struggled with that the most!!!! Keeping my shit together for family....which wasn't easy cuz unlike drinking, that is just as bad and getting shit faced was just thought to be a part of drinking, my drug of choices side effects were just as ugly and hard to hide and NOT acceptable to non addicts and drinkers!

[@eggspanda2475]

its just as hard trying to act normal when they do know. also if they dont know i recommend you tell them, not kids obviously but partner mum dad siblings. contrary to what you think it will help you more than you know. own it and move forward

[@markdoherty9205]

The hardest bit is choosing between the two, (the odds are in favour of the drugs) and one day you may have to face that choice. Choose carefully as it's one of those permanent steps in life you can never take back.

[@ext93]

I lived this for years with my ex. Her dad had addiction problems and she didn't want me to fall down the same path so she was harsh about forming habits with drugs. We would drink and smoke together, she wasn't abstinent. I took certain drugs behind her back for years and it was the hardest thing on my soul. We broke up for other reasons, but it's absolutely draining to lie about your usage all the time to someone you love. It really takes away a big part of you

[@sebb1241]

I’ve been addicted to weed smoking 2 years straight every day multiple times a day, I’m currently 5 weeks sober yet I still feel down it’s hard to grasps my emotional state of how I feel and what I’m seeing. Hopefully I can start to feel real again and hope everyone else battling addiction here pulls through!