What It Was Like When I Hit Rock Bottom | Russell Brand
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 14 พ.ย. 2020
- I'm often asked the question, what was rock bottom for me, what was the moment that made me quit drinking and taking dr*gs? Here I'll tell you a few of the stories and moments that led to me going into seek treatment for my addictions and enter into recovery. Please be aware, don't judge your addictions or destructive behaviours to some of these more extreme examples. It doesn't have to be overtly "extreme" to warrant addressing - a lot of addictions and unhealthy habits take a more insidious form, and often last longer because of that.
Check out this playlist for more videos like this: • Addiction & Recovery
Listen to my Under The Skin podcast here:
luminary.link/russell
Instagram: / russellbrand
Twitter: / rustyrockets
Produced by Jenny May Finn (Instagram: @jennymayfinn)
7 days today. Just taking it 1 day at a time.
Now it's 8 I hope.
I remember when I had the realization that I was always going to be in pain. Drugs, no drugs, relationship or no relationship... I wake up hurting and my brain wont stfu all day. But an Angel passed me by in a McDonalds dining room at breakfast and said, "Just remember, there's no answers in the bottle..."
It's true. Yeah, I'm in pain... BUT I know through experience that if I start the drugs again it's gonna be worse really quick...
Anyway, I'm not here to solve ur shit, but feel free to hit me back if u want.
you’re doing amazingly. keep going. i have faith in you
Congrats! That’s amazing! ♥️
Just keep in mind that you don't want to be back at day one. You are doing great. 👍🏼
Hope you're still strong. Wishing you all the best.
30 years today
Congratulations! That is a lot of hard work and achievement, well done sir
Amazing 👊
Wow, congrats man. Amazing 🙏🙏🙏
Well done mate
Well done mate
I’m sitting in a freezing parking lot in Nashville right now watching you while my wife is in a meeting with her home group. She’s still drinking but she’ll go to meetings so that’s something positive in my mind. I can only pray because the tears don’t come anymore. You give me hope.
Praying for you & your wife.
Stay strong buddy, keep the faith, I get it
Someday it will sink in.
Praying for you both!
I hope you find your own support group...her addiction doesnt take away your worth!
The “socially sanctioned addictions” line hit very close to home for me: being online too much, too many video games, and spending money on stupid stuff I don’t need. Thanks for your brave sharing, and your continued illumination and light of Knowledge.
Funny how all the liquor and cannabis stores were labeled 'essential services' yet nobody could go to church. They want to get us drunk and high so we lose our spirituality and are blind to what's going on.
@@LisaMaryification religion is a crutch just like drugs.
I'm afraid that we live in a society of socially sanctioned addictions. I don't know anybody that doesn't have one. God help us all.
@@lookatmepleasesir to be honest, I don't know many people who aren't like that. Everyone's on a spectrum somewhere.
I feel like I'm in limbo between being an intelligent human who knows what's right and someone who just wants to be numb 24/7
Therapy, Hindu, Eastern MEDITAION IN THE BODY AND MIND. Works FOR THIS PROBLEM! GET INTO IT. before its too dark.
🥺
an intelligent human would want to be numb all the time in todays mad world. how do you respond to this though, with love for yourself and the people around you, or simply oblivion.. I live for love
Face pain, then you’ll be free. The crazy thing is, what if the pain is less painful than you subconsciously fear. Might as well find out. What’s on the other side of that is insanely great 💕
Right/wrong doesn't exist. Thats opinion based, or ego based. Intelligent human is a mere fantasy. Ego chasing superficial fluff like intelligence all for self validation.
One month clean from IV meth use. It is very hard, but am trying. Thank you for sharing your story/experiences with us.
30 days is amazing. Tomorrow will be easier than today! GOOD JOB. I'm proud of you.
Methedone was u on alot
Well done m8,methedone WAS it a lot
Well done be proud of yourself
👍😉
It's so beautiful to see how humbled Russell is and how much he wants to spread the message that sobriety is the way. I absolutely love what you're doing with your life now. God bless.
I couldn't agree more: sobriety is the way! It is THE message for today.
Man I totally understand this all! I used to put Ice, coke and heroine in the same spoon! It really took a tole on me! But I got away from it all after 20+ years of using! I feel amazing only after 3 1/2 years clean! Keep talking about it Russel it really helps! Thanks
Hey, are you saying it took 3 1/2 years to feel completely well? You were having trouble sleeping 3 1/2 years after getting clean? After using for 20years?
@@Aleksamson you’ll feel like dogshit for a minimum of one month if you’ve been using for a while. The mental damage is worse than the physical, however. You got this man!
@@Aleksamson depends on the opiate/opioid, they all have different half lives. I quit suboxone cold turkey, i couldn't sleep for months and the few first days were so awful, had I not been in prison, I likely would've done something stupid to myself. Methadone is the worst, you can die from withdrawal, and its years until you feel normal again.
@George Thomas I’m back on methadone afer coming home, thought we’d moved into a old crack making house until police took protection orders on my behalf. I had been kidnapped in Brisbane mid 90s, woke up needle in my arm..Stockholm syndrome saved me. Big back story…… oh well.
Why would you mix ice, cola, and heroin in a spoon ?
I think that you have to put the spoon over a flame for the heroin, but, wouldn't that just melt the ice ?
And wouldn't the melted ice just dilute the coke ?
Wouldn't you get more caffine by substituting the ice with just a little bit more coke ?
And isn't caffine a stimulant, while heroin is a depressant ?
Damn !
Drug usage really does fuck up the mind !
If I'm going to put ice in my coke, I'm going to drink it while it is cold and not watered down.
"It went something like - it was fun, then fun with problems, then just problems"
I read Russell's book to.. those few words some it up so well.
Some of us didnt get any of the fun. It was just what we knew, what we watched people do in our house as a kid and not knowing enough to even know it was fucked up
MARAJUANA anonymous.✌️❤️🌈
Lol... spot on!
@@FastSloW-qt8xfbros been a toddler for decades 💀
6 months clean from heroin today and it is tough. Thank you for giving me something to strive harder for. Everyone tells you it gets better but I just saw how. .. and that's everything.
❤🩹
Hang in there. One day at a time, sometimes its one minute at a time, but you can do this :)
Keep at it mate 👊
@@patty5023 I am continuing to do just that , 9 mths in and it IS better thanks for the boost
@@bowerygirl Thats REALLY good to hear :) You keep going, the forward will ALWAYS turn out better then reverse.
Almost 9 years off Heroin & Coke. I feel for the addicts of now that have extreme convenience working for them and against them simultaneously. I felt your words Sir. I had too many rock bottoms unfortunately. Several moments of realization that what I had become and what I was doing wasn't in my or my community's best interests. Unfortunately I didn't start living life on life's terms till my 30's. But it's better late than never. Im 40 soon with a mortgage, wife, kids. Everything I've achieved has been because my last 9 years. Cheers Russell! Cheers to everyone 1 day out of hell, and Cheers to everyone realizing today you can leave your hell for something better.
im 53 living in the toilet of the west Los Angeles originally from Belgium addicted to meth and recently clean it was hell and still is looking to get out of here after living here for 25 years
Your post helped me. Thank you
helpfull comment
Bloody nice work mate!
Thank you Russell. In February of 2022 I hit 3 years sober and like you I try to share my horrific story to others. Bless you my friend!
Mad respect for everyone recovering from drug addictions. You got this champ
Mad respect also for everyone living with and in drug addiction.
"Addiction beggins with pain and addiction ends with pain, that's the cycle of it" So well said!!
Totally agree, that hits the nail on the head!
This is exactly how I feel!
A life altering event sent me down the dark road I find myself on now!
Eckhart Tolle is wonderfully insightful
u an addict I suppose
At least a half a dozen pearls of wisdom in that video
Watched this the first time on June 24th 2021 and became my clean date from heroin and meth. Today is March 28th 2022. Nine months clean and it started right here watching this. Love you RB, you inspire people. Please never forget that.
Nice work
Any Brewer...praise God! So happy for you!!! Enjoy you new life!
Amazing
😮; congratulations!!
I lost my best friend of 14 years to a heroin overdose in 2015. It was the hardest thing I've ever been through. She left this world and 2 weeks later I went into a psych hospital center so I wouldn't follow her. I very badly wanted to. I watched her try so hard to get clean only to crash and burn. And those that loved her so much are the ones left behind in the pain because she's no longer with us. Pain from childhood abuse led to her using drugs. Now I've been hurting for 6 years because those drugs took her from me.
So sorry for your loss
When my father died, I relapsed after 3 years sober. I was worse than ever, spending about $900 a week on cocaine, more if I won at the casino. Sleeping on the floor of a friends bug infested basement, somehow I kept it a secret from everyone for over a year. After 31 visits to the hospital in one month, the thought of my mother explaining to my neice what had happened to me, and my Fiance finding out I lied our whole relationship was my rock bottom. Though I still feel broken, my children and my spirituality are my strength and motivation. 16 years sober last August.
What an absolute legend. Congratulations on being sober.
Congratulations on your sobriety!! I'm proud of you for continuing to make the choice to remain sober, & you should feel enormous pride in yourself as well!! I wish you all the best!! ❤❤
I appreciate everyones words. I do feel pride, though, it's often overshadowed by my failures and waisted time over that period of my life. I try to tell myself that was a test I needed to overcome in order to ascend. It helps but, as my kids get older those failures are hard to move past. I could have given them the world but because of my choice we are struggling to survive. It's hard when all you see is failure.
W person W sober ness W friend for helping you L girlfriend
💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚
many rock bottoms many detox's hospitals attempts at rehab hated reality.... clean now for 16 years... miracle
Me too with the many rock bottoms been going since 18 im 24 now just did a shot too. I need help. To get it you gotta want it. Congrats on the sobriety time I cant imagine
Congratulations, 16 years is no small feat. Stay strong 💪
@@griffinjohnson3858 you can do it, friend! Keep trying.
@@griffinjohnson3858 we only have to stay clean for today or next 5 minutes, hour....
I was an addict for a good 10 years and never got low enough to stop. Tried several rehabs and nothing. I was lucky enough to have a moment of clarity while I was watching my sons birth. It took me a year but I have been clean since 03-03-03. If I can do it you can.
Never had addiction issue myself, but have had close friends & family. I love that you can talk about this so freely. I am sure it will save lives and souls. ❤️
Amen 🙏🏼 Also, love your profile picture 😃
I've been clean from crack and heroin for 3 years now. Respect to everyone who could get over it, and stay strong - to anyone who's in their journey atm. Amen
Im to scared to even try to stop...
@@TheGloomyTuesday if you get on Subutex script then detox is very, very easy. No withdrawal symptoms at all.
@@Demeraaa thank you ❤️
@@TheGloomyTuesday 🙏🏾
@@Citibank639 @@Citibank639 I just started seeing my friends again after over 2 years of being stuck at home. My only "going out" was going out to see a drug dealer. I broke up with my ex who introduced me to heroin and crack and moved away far from where he lived and from the place where I had an easy access to it. Also my family helped me. I started to be honest with people about what I was going through. But mostly it was a choice. One day I decided I am too young to waste any more days of my life. Started a new job and just kept taking Subutex which completely stopped withdrawal symptoms. Keep strong both of you! I believe that everyone can do it. The hardest part is realising it and just keep that on mind. Write a goal list what he wants to achieve but make sure it's realistic goals. Wish you both all the best!
The morning I sat on my couch all coked up with a 9mm to my head was my rock bottom. Thank God for a mom who led a life of example for me that when that whispering spirit spoke to me and reminded me of her exemplary life and maybe I should try it was the most profound moment of my young life. It was a long hard battle but by the grace of God I'm still battling and living a very happy life.
Hope your doing OK
Stay strong brother
Keep at it. I'm recovering as well. It's something that we will always deal with. I think knowing that you will always have cravings for your drug of choice is immensely helpful. Its getting to the point where you can understand that is the way forward.
Gotta grow up sometime...
You are a very good looking dude, just saying 😛
My son just turned 23 (thank god he’s made it thus far) and he suffers with addiction. He started innocent enough with weed at around age 13 and it has just spiraled out of control…opioids, benzos, and a brief time with meth. He has all the love and support one could get. He has mental pain driving his addiction. It’s inspiring to hear stories of others who have made it to the other side of it.
Thank you for sharing this part of you. I’m a recovering meth addict. Starting using drugs at 14 then found meth at 18-19 and that was my main drug until I finally got clean in my 40’s. I didn’t think I had a problem for the longest time because I could put it down and walk away from it over the years. I thought I hit rock bottom in 2002 when my home state kicked me out LOL it’s funny now not so much at the time. However 9 1/2 yrs later I relapsed hard. I hooked up with the most meanest brutal man ive ever known and I lost my kids to the state at teenagers. I was only out for a year and a half but man in that time I completely destroyed mine and my kids lives🥺 july 20 2012 is my clean date! I went into treatment and I’m a proud member of 12 step community. It’s saved my life. I’m coming up on 10yrs clean and sober and I’m beyond proud of myself. For me I had to get past that 9 1/2 yr marker for me to be proud of myself. But here I am and I’m so thankful for the life I have today. My kids are in my life and I’m a whole new woman. Along with drug addiction I’m also bipolar and I suffer from chronic wide spread daily pain. But even so I keep going because life now compared to my using days is absolutely priceless. Before recovery and working on all the ick inside from my childhood and my life of insanity I hated waking up every morning being pissed off at god for not killing me already. Not today!! Today I’m happy for the first time in my life I’m genuinely happy and grateful. I’ve always admired you because of you being in recovery and being so open about it. Thank you for leading the way. Love you friend💖💖
5 years 6 months and 8 days clean today. Greetings from finland
Happy 5 years 6 months and 13 days TODAY!! Well done!! 🙌🤸
god bless ya buddy
Hienoa 👌 Harva pystyy tuohon, saat olla ylpee itestäs! Sä teit sen, toivon sulle kaikkee hyvää. Ei oo helpoin tie kulkea mutta ei mahdoton. 🥰 Ps. Greetings from Finland 😂
Happy days, just come back from working in Finland Google data centre, hamina, finish love getting wrecked lol that's coming from a Brit 😅
@@Craig.Fawley What really??? This cant be true, its a small small world!!!! Yesterday I was in Hamina all day!!🤯🤯 Now in Kotka.. Oh yeah we love to get wasted...😏 Dont ya love it too? 🤣 Not so much?😆
He explains exactly how I feel about my addiction. I checked into rehab for the first today. 🤞
U got this.
Awesome, be proud of yourself!
best of luck to you! i really mean that!
You can do it my man!
no matter what your mind comes up with and trust me it will, STAY!
good luck bro you got this and we are cheering for you
Thank you Russell, for all your guidance. My 18 year old son is in the throws of Ketamine addiction at the moment and I find your channel helpful in trying to find ways on how to communicate with him. My heart is breaking for him but you bring hope and I'm trying to turn him on to your content. Thank you.
@Paul Gillings• I feel your pain my friend. It can be a lonely road to travel, the many I should have's, I could have's, I shouldn't have, if only's...I hope you know that you don't have to travel it alone. There are many of us like you. Be good to yourself.
Needed to hear this tonight, Russell. God willing I'll have 40 years in a few months, but the last 2-3 years have been tough (pandemic just an excuse). Solitude -> isolation -> desolation -> despair...all self-induced. Still, I have countless reasons to be grateful to be sober and alive; just needed a timely reminder! Thank you.
I feel u in regards to tha last 3 years sucking mad ass, but nothin static & erything changes gradually: good times is gonna come dude 😶🌫️😶🌫️😶🌫️
40 years is an impressive feat… hopefully it’s 41 years for you now since this was from a year ago. What’s your secret? If you don’t mind me asking
@@rolexistimeless Thank you. The flippant answer is "don't drink, don't die"; but the truthful reply is "by the grace of God". I try to carry the memory of hitting bottom with me always, as anything (!) is up from that. And yes, three months shy of 41 now.
Really appreciate your answer here Bill. My addiction is marijuana. While it’s not as devastating as alcohol, I’ve hit the bottom several times. Most times I quit because of tolerance and lack of motivation. This time in particular, I felt lots of pain, discomfort and congestion in my throat and chest which made me stop permanently 2 weeks ago. These symptoms made it harder to breathe as well at times. Anyone who says marijuana is the miracle plant for everyone and that it has no adverse health effects is not being truthful, as I have experienced this first hand for anyone reading this. Tried to fill the void with alcohol and that went south pretty quickly. Cheers to sobriety.
@@rolexistimeless Good luck, mate. I hear the marijuana nowadays (daze!) is way stronger than 1970s pot; must make it that much harder to put down. (Might be a blessing that it jacked you up, though: "Takes what it takes" to make us quit!)
His fist words are what's terrifying about addiction. He's 18 years clean, but knows that it's still there. That all it takes is one bad day or whatever, and it swallows you whole all over again.
That's 100% accurate.
Just like the literature says, "one is too many, and a thousand never enough." No truer words have been spoken about addiction.
Dedicated dude Russel. He meditates unplugs and leaves "the matrix" daily.
Yeah, this is the hard lesson for me. I always romanticize the "good" times with DOC. Enough to consider going for "one more" stroll with it.
It's odd, coz I never have anywhere near as good of a time as I used to, it can also make me feel worse for it. Yet it always calls. Perhaps more time away from it will make my recent memories with it stay, rather than what I wish it could be.
Because people still don't know about Allen Carr's method. That's why you guys will never be free
@@ozguraydn8407 You do know this method? Can you summerize what's good about it? I'd like to hear what you mean.
Don't take offense because I mean this as a compliment. I cannot believe how beautiful and thoughtful your channel is. I always imagined you as a sort of an Amy Winehouse (poor girl) type of party guy. I never would've thought that I'd hang on every one of your words but I do. We now live in a world where Russell Brand is a voice of logic and reason in a world of turmoil and distrust. Thank you, I'm proud of you, and I love you. God bless.
*Wow. VERY well said, brother. And I really mean that (no sarcasm whatsoever). ✓*
*Yep, I agree. And I hope he has led many other lost people to the truth! And evidently, he has. : )*
@@emmaconnolly8751 Wise up
Amen xx
I wasn't that big of a fan of RB but he has, against my previous impressions, become a pretty reasonable chap who is sensible in times that are dangerously illogical. One of the things that has consistently hurt for the past decade has been finding out so many people I admired before are really scumbags, and people who I had no inclination to pay attention to are relatable and make good sense.
You're either an inspiration after recovery or you've done reached an all time high where even recovery can't fully bring you back. I don't mean that as disrespectful to recovering addicts or addicts in general just how it seems. I mean look Mike Lyndell, as much as he's hated now he to go from a crackhead to building a business like that is great, even if it was pillows, blankets. Most people shame anyone that's even experienced hard drugs which my experience with people it seems if they take the needle that's when the bad name of drug addicts come from
You can't ever reach that imaginary nirvana you're trying to find and look for with drugs. Being a drug addict for over 25 years I search for something unattainable. That's NOT the answer. We have to feel the pain. Thank you Russell. May the gods bless you
About 11 years clean now. Couldn't be happier or more grateful. I actually owe it to my late dog, Cam Shaft. It's a struggle but I'm so happy we made it! And yes Russell, YES, God help the kids of today; these are dark & dangerous times indeed. ❤️💪🤗
Isn't it amazing how us addicts who actually get sober are actually smart and critical thinkers!? I think one reason I dove into addiction myself was to quiet my mind & soul... Your content is the best out here! Thank you sir!
Us addicts are amongst the most real people
@@jaketrat3725 🤣
@@jaketrat3725 glorifying addiction now?😂😂
@@jaketrat3725 I understand 💕😊
“Quiet my mind and soul”. This was me, thank you for your comment
Once I had the realization that being drunk and high didn't actually feel good everything changed. Being messed up it a terrible feeling. Then you feel even worse when you come down. So much time wasted just being drunk or high and doing nothing. Be sober, create, love, explore, observe. The world is a beautiful place even if modern society is trying to destroy it. Step out of your house. Go outside. Be grateful that you are here.
I've been there my friend ... I was in love with my angel, 40k a year job, kids, house ... when I finally woke from my stupor and realised I was still fighting an argument that had already ended? ... I'd lost everything with no redemption path. Yeah, life can be tough, totally my own fault. However people who've never tasted addiction don't realise most don't willingly choose to wreck our world ... we WAKE in the wreck wondering how the fuck we got here? ... it felt like the alcohol and Morphine were helping me DEAL with the horror my wife was putting me through? ... when in reality those drugs were the CAUSE of what I had to endure. Stay safe brother ... I know your path, I care, because I understand. Thanks for listening to me.
Boom , good message 5 days sober myself drank 5 days ago again 🤬
@@hereshoping6992 Stick at it my friend, you haven't failed. Start again and don't give up. You'll be surprised what you're capable off.
That was a beautiful and honest monologue ... I wish you a long and happy (substance free) life. If only the youth aspired to be like you and not sone monosyllabic cretin who 'raps'.
😭🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💮⚕️💮
I am 51 and I wouldn’t know you tube if it weren’t for my son. I have never said this to anyone “famous “ or who has a channel. But you not only are helping to get help but making me feel it’s ok to have different opinions and still respect people. Thank you!
Ive passed by this video so many times. Watched it for the first time and wow. I am an addict, been clean 6 years now and am still in recovery group Once a week. Thank you Russell for being so candid and open. You really are helping people, don't ever forget that sir.
Bless you Russell and bless everyone watching this who is fighting their demons....
I made peace with my demons. Now I don't have to waste energy fighting them.
Dear Mimi 78, if you are still struggling, I am just a branch reaching out. I love all struggling creatures. They are the ones who will change the world. I am a struggling creature.
@@LoLeanderx You are wise. Listen.
My like was number 300 :)
U can’t fight them, its a part of you. acknowledge overcome, subdue take control and let go
In an age of insane jump cut editing on you tube, almost purposefully, as if to re-awake the ten second attention span... To see a guy roll continuously with such fluidity is such a pleasure and a show of talent.
Yes.. not to mention it’s more genuine and natural.. honest
I hate jump edits as well. It's lazy to be honest. However, I have to imagine Russell's acting experience helps. Not saying he has a script but I'm thinking he at least had talking points. If you watch videos made by people who are public speakers, they tend not to have jump edits either.
@@frogbutts3628 I mean yeah Russell is quite literally a pro at being on camera. Your average TH-camr is just a regular person. Also editing wouldn't serve this piece, like Dee mentioned it would not feel as heartfelt. He uses jump cuts in his normal videos tho.
His verbal IQ is very close to the top.
Highly agreed good observation
The extremes we go to to soothe that inner void. That hunger to appease the poor trembling self. All anybody wants is to be loved accepted cherished and to be without aforementioned is when the bad habits set in. Your intensity ,passion, plight for truth and transparency is so refreshing.
I appreciate your looking back and going through the crazy, embarrassing things you did and maintaining your composure because it shows you have completely accepted, understood, and forgiven yourself for having done those things. I still feel extreme shame and it physically hurts to think about some of the crazy things I pulled. Thankfully, to date, apart from using itself I've never engaged in criminal activity nor have I ever hurt anyone. I've been betrayed and hurt by many though. I need to make peace with that part of my life.
The nightmare isn't over though. This is year 13 of my 2nd bout with meth. The first lasted 5 years then I had nearly 3 years of sobriety. This 2nd era of meth addiction started in May 2009 and, I kid you not, it has been daily usage nonstop since.
I'm as much addicted to the seedy fast life and all its quirky characters and all the lustful and erratic feelings and sensations that fluctuate within me constantly as I am to the drug itself but I know there is more to this life. I dream about it often.
How do you feel now? Are things better now? Are you in treatment? Regards 🙏🏼
That last statement hit hard
"I know there is more to this life. I dream of it often."
I hope you and I can both find ourselves living that dream.
My addiction ended on my way to federal prison. It wasn't the intervention I wanted but it was the intervention I needed. In prison, the happiest man I ever met who had already done 35 years behind the fence told me you can get better or you can get bitter, you can't do both. Been clean over 13yrs now. Its simply a choice to live versus a choice to die slowly. I did it. You can too if you haven't already. Farewell my friends. Don't let life get in the way of living
Edit: Thank you RB for sharing
Get better or get bitter....you cant do both. I like that. Thanks for sharing.
Wow! Kudos to you my friend.
Jails, institutions and death are the 3 ways it ends for us!! That's when we can find the freedom to live clean...just keep doing the next right thing!!
I pray you are still doing well!! You can keep going and change your life! 🤲🏻 May Allah (God) bless you.
@@LizzieStuff I Am. Shalom
24 years sobriety so far. I also have bipolar syndrome.
Congrats 💫
me too. Heroin addict primarily now. God Bipolar is bad for addiction.
God bless!!!
@@emilythornton8403 Please get some help Emily. I lost my brother to heroin.
👊🏽
14 years clean and sober...still working everyday to stay that way...only someone who has been through the nightmare of drug addiction can understand And clearly you've been there brother..it's this honesty in discussing the pain and fear of addiction that is so liberating as an addict...no more excuses...no more denial...no more blame...you gotta want it..you gotta fight for it..and y gotta OWN IT... otherwise you're doomed..you'll never make it out
So much love to those who are struggling in their addiction and those who have come thru to the other side. We just all have to keep going and learning and digging deeper and doing the best we can. Spread love ❤
This version of Russell brand is so much easier to like. He’s a natural leader and he’s finally contributing positively. Good on you mate.
Both versions are valid ♥️
I love every version of him. Because it's always been real, raw and true.
He is a father now. That will change a good man, into a great man.
Yes using his charismatic superpowers for good!! He's so uplifting and honest
He would not have been who he is today without transmuting his own pain.
Shout out to all the people battling through every day. 🙏
Day 16. Merci beaucoup 🌹
@@F417H you got this😘😘
Thank you Nicola. Let's be strong!
@@F417H Congratulations!!🙏💞 keep on keeping on!
Hi 👋 You're probably subscribed to all the same channels or everyone has this name. Hang in there.
Day 1 🥊
I've definitely hit a low....I think possibly rock bottom. It's scary, sad, humbling. And I never thoughti could cut out alcohol forever. But watching Russel Brands videos about sobriety makes it sound attainable. More than that, he makes me actually desire it.
I just got out of the hospital after a suicide attempt and this is the closest Ive ever gotten. Now I'm binging your videos because you articulate yourself so well, and I feel like you've stirred up a change in me. God bless you and thank you for all your work 🙏
I have given up drinking and smoking after 25 years .
I have it up 2 month's ago , l did it for myself and feel great .
I feel more confident.
STAY STRONG
As an ex addict I remember being kind of jealous of other addicts who had people forcing them into treatment and rehab. I think if you have people who care about you enough to do that, you are very blessed.
And when ya have people trying to force you ya wish that you could be left alone like other addicts.. the grass is always greener on the other side sort of thing ya know lol.
@@BlekJamal True. No one wants to stop getting loaded while they are in the thick of it. But from an outside perspective, it’s pretty undeniable that having people care enough about you to try and help is much better than no one giving a shit.
couldn't agree more. totally correct
I remember when my girl friend atm got mad because her family kept have interventions for he about thing like weed. I was like damn at least they care
@@enlightenedchipmunk2001 Just wanted to point out, in hindsight I totally agree! Wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for the people that love me.
"It's a kind of crystallisation... a lot of you dies and fades and withers, and you're exposed to the pain that you've been trying to avoid." This was immensely helpful, thank you Russell.
for sure. utterly spot on.
Wow, this statement really hit me hard.
8 months sober from alcohol and extremely heavy cannabis concentrate use, as well as compulsive sexuality. This is way harder than I had ever imagined having to face the pain and emotions I have stuffed down for 22 years of my life. The most random painful things and memories pop up and it hurts so fucking bad it seems unbearable at times.
Yet, I am proud of myself for being on the path of recovery and have an exceptional amount of respect and sympathy for those who choose to get and stay sober. It is not for the faint of heart, but shows you are using your heart to guide the way and to heal.
These types of videos keep me sane. I wish you ALL the best whether you are gay, straight, old, young, democrat, republican, anti vaccine, pro vaccine, black, white, Jewish, satanists, christian, introvert, extrovert, rich, poor, dog lovers, cat lovers, alpha, beta, vegan, carnivore...none of that matters, we are all truly one fulfilling our role on this planet. I love you and you deserve to be the best version of you!
How is it a try later, over 1.3 mill views and only 57k likes? You're touching more than just those 57k people's lives Russell. Thank you for your strength and vulnerability. May peace be with you always and God bless you for what you've created here for us to share in and be apart of! Sending love from Idaho boyo!
6.5 years without alcohol and now at a point where I'm able to say I'm 'sober' with pride. Not just "I don't drink". I'm proud of all of us, whatever day we're on. ♥️
6.5 years is where I’m at also….it’s incredible! God is good!
you only be truly free when you can actually have alittle drink without getting addicted.. its the personality trait of the individual, by abstaining from the addiction by it not being present. its letting it be in your presence in your face amd you just smile and say sorry to disapoint you i dont want any. or even have a small drink but not letting it creep into your consciousness and take over
god bless!
You'll always be an addict. That never goes away. Even if your 30 years clean, you're still An attict
Me too 6 years 6 months today Life is good and I enjoy life and all the things I didn't know I even liked painting and pottering around in the garden.
Sobriety gave me peace of mind that I was looking for in Alcohol I didn't realise I was looking in all the wrong places.
And a brilliant home group with no egotistical members always very enjoyable.
God bless and if anyone is suffering seek help it's available and free
I just quit all substances myself and when Russel said “my youth and my whole life had been defined by addiction” I’ve been smoking weed or trying to get high since I was 13-14 years old, I’m 24 now and I’ve forgotten what it’s like to live life without substances and watching these videos really makes me feel better about my decision
It will be rough for a while but it does get better and better. Life will become more alive for you.
🙏❤️❤️
lol ur still a kid u still got time to do lots of drugs
Facts bruh it never ends
30 min and going strong
Thank you for opening up to everyone and giving your story. You can tell by reading the comments under your videos how much your helping others so thank you for bearing your soul to us. Thank you for showing us how human you are and showing us how low it got. Because seeing how far you have come aswell I'm sure is helping so many. We need more people like you!
I know from my experience that I came to the conclusion that Rock bottom has a basement and from there on out I've been clean 5 years, keep up the good work Russell Brand much appreciated
empathy is the most powerfull weapon. and you're wielding it heroically
Can too much empathy be a bad thing?
@@sevans606 maybe, but the point is to have it in control, as the gentleman above showed it.
@@sevans606 Empathy is just the ability to walk in another's shoes.
❤️
Agree, nicely put
August 8th , 2018 is the last time I stuck a needle in my arm.. much respect and love to everyone on here, clean or not, keep fighting. It gets better I promise. I went from no car , no girl, renting a room at a sober house, bullshit job, no money, paycheck to paycheck... to a 2020 car , an amazing gf who also happens to be baby mom to a beautiful 4 month old boy, still a bullshit job but better than the last , we rent a 3 bedroom house looking to buy next year , and I have a lil more than a months worth of money saved aside. The thing most people won't tell you , is you have to work on yourself, spiritual and emotionally and the rest will just come with it. You have to get extremely uncomfortable with yourself to get comfortable. Most of yall (in active addiction) didn't get to where you at now overnight did ya?
Living the dream - every addict or alcoholic who is sober or clean as won the lottery of life good luck to you and your young family
Captivating. When asked the question "If you could have dinner/conversation with anyone in the world, who would it be?" I could never think of anyone until now... it would be this guy. Smart, funny, authentic, intense, deep, thoughtful, alive. Incredible.
This is all relatable and it's sad how much time I wasted early on. The self destruction. The insanity. The running around in circles. The yearning. Being untethered. I didn't know how to love myself. But somehow the universe was looking out for me. So I try to pay it forward. Being of service to others feels really good. Having empathy. Helping others to grow spiritually.
"Starts with pain, ends with pain" 💯 true
Even in the wild and wrecked days, this erudite, clever, funny man struck me as a diamond in the rough. So often, people tried to squash this soul. I’m glad he was all the while expanding to bring us the genuine and open goodness of his brilliant and beautiful work
i didnt know anything about you at all when i found your youtube channel my first thought was this man is a true freedom fighter and is standing up for whats right and tries to see both sides it may not mean much but i dont think anything less of you at all i think you are a great person and nothing is going to change my thoughts of how good of a person i think you are i am happy you have recovered and thriving had no idea you did comedy either
He was a movie star ⭐ at one point I think
12 years clean from prescription pain pills, especially Oxy 80’s. I had never taken any drugs until I was involved in a car wreck that almost killed me. Became physically addicted from long term use and finally got sick and tired of being sick and tired. Checked myself into a 30-day rehab program and never looked back. Also made a full recovery from my injuries which consisted of over 60 broken bones. I am truly blessed.
Fair play didn't know what an opiate was until failed spinal surgery.Oxy 60 a god send in the beginning for pain it don't take long for your body to become dependent.Doct says I'm justified taking it my head says need to get off it.
@@JasonBrown-zg3tr Your life will be so much better without them although i know it’s hard for you to picture that right now. The pills start making the pain worse after long term use. I’ve been where you are. Trust me, those pills are not your friend anymore. Find a good rehab center and try it. You may be pleasantly surprised like I was. I felt so much better after getting past the first couple of weeks. They should medically detox you so you won’t experience all those nasty withdrawals.
@@devinw5150 I instigated a taper with my GP I live in the UK.If I had known I'd have preferred to suffer the pain.Similar is happening in the UK that happened in America I wish I had done my research before I started taking them . Reading your post give me hope in the beginning they made me feel like a 21 year old I'm almost 50 almost all my pain went away.Personally I think these pills should be for cancer and end of life pain.Doctor says I'm not addicted but dependent on them its a thin line in my opinion.
@@JasonBrown-zg3tr I feel the same way. I had no idea what withdrawals were or that they even existed when I began taking them. We both had no choice about taking them because of our circumstances but after a while, they just stopped working as well and so I started taking more and more and before i knew it, i was up to a 600 pill a month habit between my regular doctor, doctor shopping and drug dealers. That’s when I realized it was time to get help and it was the best decision I ever made.
@@devinw5150 fair play to you,they effected my testosterone me and my Mrs hardly ever intimate.Mood swings, insomnia I started taking an extra one here and there.Tried stopping cold turkey from 200mg a day.Absolute horrific I had diahorea, vomiting,every bone ached,nose run my eyes watered no sleep and the anxiety made me feel suicidal.Taking oxynorm for breakthrough pain as well I had no idea what I was getting myself into. We have a national health service we don't pay for nowt I lasted nine days and caved in.
I see this guy who has educated himself on why he abused...much like as an abuse survivor I've become educated on my abuser. The best teacher is a survivor.
I used to hate seeing the old Russel on screen HATE THAT GUY. AMAZED by this man. INSPIRED
I didn't like that man for a lot of reasons. However, I do believe in redemption and forgiveness of others. This Russel is a much kinder, wiser, open-minded, loving person who I enjoy listening to whether we agree or disagree on a topic. I truly wish him the best.
Same. He was so annoying.
That's exactly how I feel he really has grown matured and deepend
@@sarahtaylor4264 I feel the same way about him. It's like he grew a few brain cells. He used to be really annoying, and that's what drugs do. They make you into a person that you're not. I didn't know he was that hooked on drugs, he hid it well. God bless you Russell.
Going off the deep end made him deepened
I made the mistake of thinking my son had a choice to get high. I didn't realize he was sick and didn't have a choice. He died in the driveway in his van where I made him sleep. I was dead wrong and will pay the price until my end. Take your loved ones the way they are and be thankful you have them alive. Thanks Russell
Beautiful. As an addict in recovery for 6 years it helps to remember we are in this together. Truly love you for sharing your pain and triumph.
When your using just to feel normal was when I got close to rock bottom then my 97 yr old grandmother said she prays for me every night. She was the only family member that could tell I was killing myself, I was excellent at hiding my addiction, and she asked me "Why are you paying someone to poison yourself???" I had no answer. I got so pissed off at myself, so I got help and on her deathbed I told her her prayers worked and she need not worry, she smiled and said she already knew. Been 4 yrs as of 2days ago and life has gotten better and better!
I quit WEED this month at age 74.
On my birthday, I got a message that my lungs could not take any more.
I'm really proud of you, how are you doing now ? :)
Eat it!!!!!
😮😢🙏😊
You're a quitter!
Good for you, what happened?
Sober 2 years. I didn't pick up until I was 40 years old. Crazy right. I am 58 and finally, ... finally...., finding value in life. Figuring out, what I was running from, and figuring out what brings me joy, true joy. Than God for second, third, forth, chances.
18 YEARS! Thats so inspiring Russel thank you! 8+years personally and not judging MYSELF so harshly was the hardest thing for me to recognize as a problem. thank you for sharing Russel.
I have to say man, when you first came on the scene I wasn’t the biggest fan ( my ignorance I apologise)but you’re metamorphosis into one of the beacons of honest, fair and true media, which we need now more than ever!
Thank you and god bless ✌🏼
Ditto ♥️🐬👍🇦🇺
Amen
It means a great deal to me that you shared your past so honestly. Thank you for being vulnerable.
I recently discovered your videos and am truly loving each and every one. Thank you for bringing such truth and light to a world that desperately needs it.
“Ego not being the dominant driving force” is huge for recovery.
His use of language is addictive. Well done. Stay blessed and sober.
Yeah i thought that he had just read memorized the dictionary
You should watch his first episode of Hot Ones. He is a lyrical magician.
yup. 1000% perfect
He serves up word salads …quickly………. to make you think he’s some kind of intellectual. Read a transcript of what he says……..and weep at how easily you were fooled.
@@jmcc2275 and look at you- trying to be the wordsmith and failing. Ease up on the ellipsis usage. It’s foolish.
I love that u r so open to share this. There is a bit of addiction and rehab in our family and I feel like this is exactly what some of them are going through as they come to the other side of it. Its a beautiful transformation.
Stumbled onto this video and love the honesty and reality of it. Thank you.
So glad you found your path Russell. My youngest daughter never did and left this world in 2016. Thank you for being so brave and giving us so much to admire and appreciate…
Truly sorry for you loss Larry🙏
May you both be at peace.
Sorry for your loss mate 🙏
my brother also couldnt find the path and left us 2017, i know the pain as sibling but cant imagine the pain as a parent that you and my parents went thru, stay strong brother
At least they died doing what they liked
I've been sober more than 20 years. Much respect to you Russell for your courage in talking about difficult experiences. I wish you well. And, thank you for continuing to speak plain truths to power.
RB I really needed to hear this message today. You brought me to tears with your eloquent words and delivery of a much misunderstood subject - Addiction.
Thank You for sharing all your personal growth and making it a communal journey. ✌️❤️
Thanks for sharing your recovery story. I'm in recovery, if I can do it anyone can, they have to want it. There is hope, don't give up!!
I was a really a hard core alcoholic, starting at age 14 up until about 25. I know it might sound funny or unrealistic to some, but at age 15 I'd already get so drunk I'd have about 0.3 blood alcohol content at least once a week. Black outs lasting up to 8 hours. During summer break naturally I had a lot more time to drink, so at age 17 I got drunk for about 60 days straight during the summer.
Started smoking weed and hash when I was 16, then took my first LSD trip a week after I turned 17.
Couple all this with the fact that I was also a gaming addict and got absolutely no physical exercise, didn't give a fuck whether I ate or not and regularly stayed up until like 10 a.m. , whether gaming or drunk and was also addicted to porn, at age 18 my body was so broken it's hard to even comprehend for a normal person. I began having overwhelming insomnia, was insanely tired all the time, could barely stay awake during any daily activites, was suffering intense anxiety during the most trivial of daily interactions with people who've been around me for years (class mates etc.) which eventually became full blown panic attacks. Then after high school I kinda started taking it easier with the alcohol, still drinking all the time but not getting drunk that severely. Started doing LSD & ecstasy about once a month at the age of 20. Naturally, I dropped out of college after 2 attempts at the 1st year.
Eventually when I was 22 or so, I hit some kind of a peak on one of the trips and realized I needed to purify myself from all this shit, including all the underlying negative emotional/behavioral patterns that caused it all in the first place.
Then when I was 23 one of my best friends, who was very similar to me regarding addiction, got murdered by a guy we used to hang out with over literally like 15 dollars worth of weed money. As I already wanted to get clean anyway for a while, this was the catalyst that sprung me into action.
I was also on the verge of committing suicide due to unrequited love and just the general sense of having no idea what to do with my life.
Even though I kept using for about a year after my friend's death, at this point using made even less sense than it ever did so I eventually got a job as a cook and started working. It was a pretty intense job, so after a while I realized that I would simply feel better and be in less pain while working if I stopped using and drinking completely. About 6 months later I stopped working there but I was left with the realization that I will actually feel better if I quit using completely.
So I stopped abusing substances, stopped watching porn, started having regular exercise and eventually started learning programming when I was about 25. It took me like 4-5 years , but I eventually fixed my body and now I can say that I'm in better shape than most people. I also got my first IT job last year, then got fired due to COVID, then found a new one which I started working at this month.
I'm still trying to make sense of what the fuck the point of all this shit is supposed to be, but at least now I can sleep properly, feel and look physically decent and have a comfortable job, not being dependent on anyone economically. But in conclusion I don't think it was ever the drugs that hurt me that much, if anything they sort of made me understand how insane I was. It was the more mundane and socially accepted things that ruined my health completely - alcohol, porn and being a couch potato (or more like a potato chip, since I was actually very skinny due to all this shit).
Curious as to your parents and what part they played in all this during all those years ?
@@levans3447 they're both generally decent people but they got divorced when I was literally 6 months old, my dad was only 25 at the time while my mom was 32, so while I didn't have a bad relationship with my dad, it was certainly very lacking because he was still young and irresponsible as far as raising a child goes. so my mom took care of me the vast majority of the time and considering she was a single mother it was a struggle for her economically, plus she was always highly neurotic due to some family issues with her parents and sister. I'm currently living with her because of the COVID situation and even to this day, even though our relationship is actually pretty good now, she still goes on these brief rampages over the tiniest things every other day. It was extremely stressful for me when I was a child but I hardly get phased by it anymore. So, regarding the period in my life while all this chaos was going on, I guess my dad didn't really pay much attention to any of it, while my mom was generally being overwhelmed by life and considering I could just go and stay and my dad's place whenever I wanted, I guess she just gradually lost control over me. So I guess you could say they just didn't know how to raise a kid any better.
Thank you for touching on these issues and sharing your struggles, I'm struggling with the same but I'm winning. Slowly. Much love brother
@@knexilva thx , but if I wasn't a dumbass in the first place none of it would have happened that way anyway lol : ) but I guess I did successfully learn quite a few lessons. and I'm happy if the story encourages anyone struggling with similar issues, because if you just keep trying you'll eventually feel good, no matter how bad you may feel at the moment
Fair play to put all that out there. Best wishes my man ❤️
I hit rock bottom 3 years ago, not from drugs but from a mental illness coming out from my traumatic childhood. PTSD, I was suicidal I couldn't work I had no family to turn too because they were the abusive party and I didn't want to go back to that enviroment. Then I went to the Mind charity and got help, and my friends who are my extended family kept me going. I am back at work now and still receiving treatment. Your video gives me hope of leaving my childhood behind and finding happiness and health. Thank you for the upload Russell. You have done so well in your recovery from your addiction. Xxx
That's amazing! I hope you're doing great! Thank you for sharing your story!
❤️❤️
me too. it lands the same though right? ❤
@@shaundaross123 Exactly 😊😊😊
🌸🐦🌷
I’m proud you were able to overcome your addiction. It’s so sad when one succumbs to their addictions. Best wishes to all those who have beat theirs. And prayers for those still in their addictions.
I’m in the process of reading your book. Thank you! I understand the things that you are talking about and know that it’s not easy. So thank you for being brave and writing and talking about your addiction issues. I don’t feel so alone anymore.
There is no such thing as rock bottom. Hell is a bottomless pit. It only gets worse everyday until you quit.
YES, nice catchphrase.
Rock bottom is the first fix.
I look up and see rock bottom 🤣🤣
@@hereshoping6992 🤣🤣🤣🤣you winning winning 😜
@@hereshoping6992 Rock bottom has a basement ☹️
What if you when u quit things just get even worse ?
Two weeks sober here and loved to hear this, thank you
🥳
So proud of you!
Wow, well done! Be kind to yourself you are doing an amazing thing that is very tough!
Great job! Keep it up.
Hi tali.keep up the goid work.u get a big👍👍👍👍👍👍👍 from me.u can do it
How articulate you were with that topic, the clarity and focus, thank you Russell for the inspiration and hope which have been given to many and myself. Blessed.
I had to watch this, because you've mentioned your recovery so many times, yet seem to be very well adjusted. I applaud your success and hope you continue to hold this valuable thing to the end. I ran across your video accidentally, found your "news and information" an incredible value, interesting, amusing, and you make is so easy to listen to, while keeping it straight. You are doing a great job, for a whole lot of folks who take it all in. Thanks for all of it.
A man that is self aware,has dove deep into his soul and speaks with the clarity that you do, is lovely to see!✨
Beautifully and accurately spoken. I've been clean since '78. Hardest part was leaving the druggy social life behind. I walked away from everyone, got on a jet airliner to Israel and devoted my life to my family, spirituality and service. Love is all.
Was it worth it
I was on Heroin on off for about 14 years, from 14- 28.
I left the States to leave it all behind and went to Italy where i also found it until I was ready to give up (dying).
The Methadone center let me talk to a Psychologist and he ask me if I was ready to really change my life... the day after a priest gave me the opportunity to get into a drug community center where you have to live and do your HARDCORE Programm for 3 years. It changed my life and also brainwashed me.
I couldn't bear to see an addict, stand up for it nor see a slightly bended spoon or smell lemons for years.
After a few years i began to reflect about how lucky I was to have survived, having had kids and not having caught Aids...
I began with Buddhist practice and ended up with 40 to study psychology and became a drug counselor with gratitude towards life and thankful to being able to help others to find their path... my path brought me to be a spiritual person with a lot of experience and love in my heart.
Now i am "saving myself" in becoming more and more intuned with nature, animals and the Universe.
But I do smoke grass in the evening, i re-began after 30 years not even taking any pills.
Now it helps me to expand consciousness, i know my limits and i wouldn't even do any other stuff because it's history ... that shaped me and without it i would haven't become the person I have become today - Awakened in deep gratitude.
A special thanks to this channel and the people who follow it, we are all connected 💫, Namaste 🙏
I am so glad you made it through this dark part of your journey. You are a treasure.
Having watched and enjoyed some of your more free-wheeling videos, I am moved to tears by this understated, honest, open sharing of your own journey of recovery. It's clear from the comments how many you've already touched and helped. Blessings to you, and best wishes for the continued enlightenment of all of us.
Having to turn around and walk back thru the smoldering ashes of your life and relationships is a beyond sobering experience.
Wow , so candid. Thanks for sharing your story.
Thanks Russell. 12 years for me. You’re book was an amazing and inspiring read. I like all your commentary but these are truly my favorite. Thanks for sharing your story.
“ A constant theme in all addiction is an ongoing sense of incompleteness.”
Would love to just sit and talk to this man for hours
Me too
What would you ask if you could ask anything?
kosmo spacejams I would as him his opinion on the notion of an observer based reality as proved consistently by the double slit experiment
kosmo spacejams what would you ask ?
@@Magicalfluidprocess if he wanted a cup of tea