As an alcoholic gay man who got sober 12 years ago at 47 years of age in Southern California, I wish to encourage Johan to put the drink down and honestly try to get sober. My life now is so good that it’s way beyond what I could have ever imagined. I don’t regret having been an active alcoholic, but am incredibly grateful that I’m now a sober alcoholic. Life is so much better now. Sobriety is truly the easier, softer and more fulfilling way.
I agree this chanel proves you can't judge a book by its cover. Maybe a certain situation can be predicted with stereotypes. But not marks still photos. Amazing
Was addicted to heroin and drinking of alcohol for over 7 years. Also suffered severe depression. Not until my wife recommended me to psilocybin mushrooms treatment. After trying out a psilocybin treatment, I will be 2 years clean. Never thought I would be saying this about mushrooms.
I've done microdosing for help and it works does cut depression out it's been the best remedy I've ever had. Psilocybin being illegal is actually a crime against humanity!
was addicted to what i called a trifecta Meth, Opium, Alcohol. I also suffered severe depression i went to a party and consumed about 2 eights of shrooms i was lost in my head for 2 days but when i came back my depression and addiction to my trifecta was gone. I didn't realize it at the time. The psychedelic experience is temporary but many people have good permanent results
@davidhocevar8510 I know I just get pissed at these dirt merchants on y tube selling their shit shrooms on a channel where people are bearing their souls and struggles so maybe some people will look and say I don't want that to be me. Fucking tripping aint the answer. Not from some hack. Sobriety is. California sober??? Yeah right ...California shit!!
I'm an alcoholic who has been struggling for years recently. I stopped drinking for about 5 years. 25 to 30. I'm 40 now. It ruined many things in my life. Selfish behavior that I am ashamed of. One quote that always hit me is, 'alcohol gives you the wings to fly, then takes away the sky.'
I'm not at the point I experience DT but I drink a six pack of 10 percent beers 2-3 times a week and that's what gets me. Alcohol turns the normal reserved, man-of-few-words me into a lively, talkative person and I love it. I dance when I drink, you wouldn't catch me dancing sober, EVER. It gives me wings... but it can take everything else. It's hard to reconcile with that fact sometimes and VERY easy to embrace the illusion.
Fought a losing battle for over a decade to keep my father from killing himself with alcohol. The absolute smartest, most accomplished, and most empathetic man I've ever known. But he couldn't escape the demons of his past. Took me a long time to accept that I had been dealing with two very different people, and that I never really had a chance of affecting the eventual outcome.
@@baublesanddolls I was like the little boy putting his finger into the damn to try and stop the flood. I felt like I had to try, no matter how hopeless the attempt, or I wouldn't be able to repect myself. That kind of thinking came very close to pulling me down too.
I’m sorry that you had to endure that. This life is full of trauma. You did the right thing by trying, and you should be commended for that. A caring person is hard to find these days. I wish you the best!
I see a lot of people saying he has a responsibility problem. I do agree but I can't begin to imagine what the trama from being assaulted like that from the age of 5 would do to a man. I'd say, given that he's more well adjusted than most. I think he could benefit from medical assistance with the alcohol issue as well as CBT.
@Broskisnowski most alcoholics I know are totally off the rails, I do know some functioning herion and pill users tho, guess it just depends on where you're from and who you know
He's so well-spoken and genuine. Johan is one of the most honest persons I've seen on SWU. He doesn't hide or minimalize his addiction and that's good, because with good introspection, people can see their mistakes and change for the better. I wish him well and I would like to see a second part with him and see his progress. Thank you for sharing his story with us Mark.
Johan you made me cry when you started to cry 😢I hope it all works out for you and I really hope you return to Germany one day You still laugh at your life despite your struggles Good luck dear 🇬🇧❤
It's a terrible illness. What a nice man. So sorry for him. I lost two beloved family members to alcohol, both of them good men, brilliant successful but heart breaking things happened, my step father's youngest son died in a car accident. My uncle was an engineer for Nasa and was laid off after Apolo was cut. Depression and alcohol are fatal.
I’ve legitimately blacked out on several occasions. Zero memory. Insanely bad hangovers that lasted days. (Sober now for 23 years). Maybe try treatment. You are put together and should be able to get a job. You are likable and hire-able! You can spend your days finding a job. Keep up with the meds and hang in there!
Lieber Johan, ich wünsche Ihnen alles erdenklich Gute! Sie sehen meinem ehemaligen Tierarzt sehr ähnlich, ich kann sofort vorstellen, wie großartig Sie sich um Ihren Hund kümmern. Ich hoffe Sie kommen eines Tages zurück nach Deutschland, wir können hier mehr empathische und ehrliche Menschen gebrauchen. Lots of love from Germany
You can always tell when Mark shows more interest in some interviews than others. This man could be anyone's friend and fit in. A humble wise soul. I hope he breaks free from his alcoholism one day. ❤
This man reminds me of my X boyfriend. I had warm n fuzzy feelings towards my X. when it ended, it was heart breaking. They are who are . I hope he gets , sober .
He's accountable. Here's the evidence: 1) I was making really bad decisions when I was drinking. 2) Some of my drinking was self-medicating. 3) Am I proud of this? No. But it's part of my life. 4) I was so busy drinking, I didn't know that the time was passing. 5) Between my bills and the dog, everything else is alcohol.
I really feel for him. He is so genuine and gentle. Coming from a family of alcoholics and breaking the cycle, I can confidently say alcoholism and drug abuse is an illness. They aren't necessarily bad people, they need help.
This channel really shows how many people have had such messed up lives. As someone who has had their struggles it really opens your mind up to how many people had messed up childhoods that ultimately lead to on going problems that last a lifetime.
Crazy to think that this guy, by most people's standards, is hammered on booze in this interview, but because of dependence and tolerance it makes him appear really lucid and switched on.
He mentioned that he drank some days more and somedays less, and before this interview he was on liquor. Being an alcoholic myself most of my adult life, some phases sober, it reminded me of the beginning of a binge after a crash and when you get some pep your step so the say. Like a few days after a hard crash. What you said is a real thing, As much as the cycle part. At least the kind of use he described.
Im an alcoholic. Have been since i was about 6 years old. Im 46. Im not leaving las vegas alchoholic but i drink every day. Every day for the past 30+ years. Its a burden. Induces depression. Lost a marriage. Tons of guilt. Its overwhelming. I want to stop but due to the stress of everyday life i continue to numb myself. And on goes this madness of life.
Sorry to hear this , my friend was able to quit at age 52 that was 12 years ago. He started at age 11 , he is most likely ADHA and a few other things ,but never diagnosed and only self medicated . He drank because he never felt right sober. It was hard for him to quit it took a few times.
I really can relate to this guy quite a bit, because I was born in the 60s I learned to survive and I thank God I had my older brothers to hang on to. I was thrown out of my house and I was only 15, I learned to drink, and self medicate for decades but back then I didn't know what else to do? I was a kid, I was molested when I was 6-7yr kid and my life has been a rollercoaster from hell!! I'm alive still but I still struggle with addiction and I'm used the way it is nowadays doctors don't really help,they get you on pain killers and cut you off!! I'm so screwed up and all I wanted was to be helped... but everyone I know is dead my dad died when I was 11, and mom died when I was 23 and all my brothers passed at young ages, all friends are dead from suicide and od and I only have one sister left and she's 67, last year our oldest sister died last July..me and my sister just wonder 🤔 "Who's next?!. No one is left anymore.. God bless everyone watching and struggling, thank you Mark for sharing with us. I'm watching you from Tucson Arizona
Johan you are such a humble, honest, kind gentleman. I completely understand what you are going through. This alcohol addiction, my father died of alcohol poisoning. We lived through this very difficult time. Talking to Two different people when under the influence. Pretty scary for his kids. I truly hope that you receive the help you need with your health issues. So relieved to see you are here. Thank you for sharing your story. Stay strong ❤💪🏼 Thank you Mark
What an intelligent, kind, and introspective man. Like many of the others, he was broken as a little boy. Poor soul. I hope Mark keeps in touch with Johan and revisits him in another interview after some time. He said he no longer has anything productive to offer, but it certainly sounds like he has a very marketable freelance skill. I hope he realizes that if he can accept the help he'll need to quit drinking (and the desire to do so), he has many more fruitful years ahead of him. And if he outlives his older husband, hopefully one day he goes back home to Germany and spends his final years with his elementary school soulmate, home where his heart is. Great interview, Mark.
Thanks for sharing, it's nice to think my father knew deep down what he did when he was drunk. The worst raging alcoholic I have ever seen, he is now 61 over 300 lbs and I believe he has alcohol related dementia. Hope you kick that can man. ✌
Like people always said, alcoholics have to own up to their problems, when confronted, they consider themselves to be happy drunks even while they are destroying every one or thing around them.
I’m an addict in recovery. Clean and sober for 6 years now. I’m 42. Got diagnosed with cirrhosis, end stage liver disease at 36. Had a liver transplant at 38. Everyone said “you’re too young for this” And so on but ADDICTION DOESN’T CARE! Addiction doesn’t discriminate. Alcohol is not looked down upon whereas herion/crack/fentanyl etc is. Alcohol Is everywhere. EVERYONE deserves to live a healthy, sober, happy life and it’s in your hands! YOU have the power to stop even if it doesn’t feel like you do. YOU ARE NOT ALONE, WE DO RECOVER! One day at a time. ❤
Wow, I’m having some liver issues as well I’m 34, I have been drinking 3 glasses of wine or beer every night for 5 years, I got sick 3 weeks ago I ended up in the emergency room, I was told I was having alcohol withdrawal symptoms. I said no I’m a working mom I go to work every day I take care of home and myself and my kids, I never thought it was a problem. I started therapy and I’m taking Naltrexone for the past two weeks I have not drink. But I’m happy for you keep it up!
Young quite often just means you still have the energy to destroy yourself quickly. I'm glad you're still here! Alice Cooper always said that the problem with drinking was that alcohol is so accessible. I heard that years ago and it always stuck.
Wow. Two years older than me, and he's on social security and has a business run by his son. Meanwhile, I'm wondering if I'll be ready to settle down and have kids at some point in the next five years. Life sure is different for different people.
When he said his dad was sixties and died. That’s old to me. I just had my liver removed at 52. I’d be dead. Total liver failure, cirrhosis and varicies. I went through a lot. It’s too bad I know wat is about to put him through. It’s aweful and lonely death.
I was a heroin addict for 3 years at a time and an alcoholic for 3 years at a time for almost 20 years. Never at the same time but both completely comsumed me when using them. I'd much rather be on opiates than alcohol if i didn't have a choice to be completely abstinent. Alcoholism is a slow burn to hell.
Sound like me. I never mixed the 2 things together, but for many years Id swing off and on between the 2. booze, then H for a few months binge, then back to booze and so on. quit H 7-8 years ago, cant remember, quit booze 2.5 years ago. and agreed, would rather be on opiates than booze. However, I cannot stand opiate withdrawls. i have had to take pills here and there after surgeries. I get withdrawls after 3-5 days of use not abuse. Never triggered or even gave me the slightest inclination to get back on H. H is over with, especially ow that Fent is only thing out there. I smoked black tar, never shot. I hated the constipation more than anything. opiates are like an airtight cork in my guts. I can handle the withdrawls, something cathartic about a intense H withdrawl. Pure misery and pain, you feel reborn when you come out the other side. Being sober is the best though, good sleep, healthy guts, regular bowel movements, higher focus and general happiness.
Seems like a very kind and intelligent man. Drinking has been a huge part of his life for so long and he seems to not have suffered a lot from it that the only that I think that might get him to stop is if his husband forces him to. Johan you can accomplish so much more. I encourage you to get into a program and get sober and live your life to the fullest!
Johan - for your sake, your husband’s sake, and most of all the sake of your children - please get sober. You are worth it and you can do it. There is help if you look for it. AA has helped some people but it’s not for everyone. There are other alternatives. Best of luck
Good morning everyone. It is just after 3:00 a.m. here in Northern California USA, where it is currently 61 °. Wherever this finds you, I hope that you are safe, comfortable & well. 💜
HEYYYYY ITS BOUT 5:35 A.M ROUND HERE IN MEMPHIS TN AND 80°. ALL LOVE IS RETURNED GREATLY AND WE ALL HOPE THAT YOU ARE SUPER DUPER SAFE N COMFORTABLE! (Even tho we barely survivin'! But still Havin fun!) LOVE YAAAA. 💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕
Johan, I hope this comment finds you in a better place. I'm struck by your kindness, thoughtfulness, and reasonableness. These qualities are a testament to your strong character and provide a foundation for hope in the face of your current challenge. I understand that alcoholism is a difficult battle that requires both resilience and determination to overcome. You have already displayed these qualities by acknowledging your alcoholism and seeking a way forward. It takes immense courage to admit our vulnerabilities and take decisive steps towards healing. Although you have been away from your home country for the most part, I believe that the good man I see in this video has the resilience to rise above this challenge.
So, the million-euro question . . . why doesn't he go back to Germany? He was happier there. He has friends and support there. He and his husband can have a more pleasant life together there. He'd be busier there, with less incentive to drink. He could make it happen. It would be tragic for a smart and funny man to just . . . fade away.
Johan You got this, dude! You want to be sober. I can hear it in your voice. Get some help!!!! You have a huge community praying for you, rooting for you!!!
I hate to hear how this guy fears being alone. It breaks my heart to know that SO many people are all alone. No one should be lonely with so many people around. We live in a selfish and wicked world.
He is so honest and well spoken. I can relate to his alcohol dependency. I just recently went into treatment after 3 decades of drinking. I still struggle with sobriety and getting to meetings. Its a struggle for me. I just recently was prescribed naltrexone tablets and it is helping me a lot and cuts the cravings. I hope and johan can get some positive support
When I was an alcoholic I would wake up to a four Loko or joose to get out of the withdrawal stage feel good enough to go to work. I would have to have another one around noon after work and then whatever else I wanted to drink at home. When you're drinking that much it is very likely that you actually blackout I've done that multiple times. I think you're actually blacked out when you're waking up in jail and not knowing why you're there but being told what you did. Or the temporary blackout swear you blocked out and wake up on the floor after having your ass beat because for some reason you thought it was a good idea to stand up and try to fight someone randomly. I'm glad I'm no longer an alcoholic it was definitely the hardest part of my life, I drink to get drunk as quick as possible cuz I enjoyed the feeling. I am very lucky to still have my family to this day. Had my wife had the ability to leave I know she would have. I don't smoke it but what stuns me is marijuana ever being illegal and still being illegal in some places. Alcohol can downright destroy your life or end it if you let it I'm about five years sober from alcohol now. I've been lucky to never have a DUI so now I have my CDL. I never made it a habit of driving drunk but when you're an alcoholic and your body relies on alcohol to function, you're going to be over the legal limit at all times but that's your normal.
I agree with his comment about being in Germany vs. America as someone who's lived in both places. When people run into problems here, there are fewer reliable services to help them overall.
There are no resources here in America. Pretty much none. The social services that exist *really* exist just to provide jobs for the people that run them. If you don't have money in America, you could literally die on the street and nobody would care one single bit.
I have been drinking to get drunk almost every day since 1997. I have probably gone 24 hours without drinking less than 30 times in almost 30 years. But I usually am sober for work. I don't know how people can be drunk 24/7. I would die.
What a voice, he could be doing voice over work. Quite easy to listen to, entertaining and insightful. I would recommend Johan to put himself out there, perhaps create his own YT channel as I for one would like to hear much more from him, as I've rewatched this interview a few times and each time I find it more fascinating. If you see this Johan, know that you have value and potential and to keep pushing forward. This is just one phase of your life's journey and doesn't have to define you.
I disagree. Its rather dumb for you to make such a useless reply to my comment, Caitlyn (or Caitlyn's mom). If you're the kid, I can understand your primitive and pointless comment. If you're the mom I can also understand it as most Americans are idiots- but try not to be so GD stupid for the kid's sake. @@squiggletree5080
It's good to know that you're aware as an alcoholic that it has an effect on the non existent relationship that you have with your children. It helps me to understand a perspective I never thought to consider in my own life. Thank you for sharing Johan.
Was I the only one whose jaw hit the floor when he said he was gay? Had to come back- this is one of the most transparent people Mark has interviewed in my opinion. I genuinely like this dude.
AA isn't going to help anyone who doesn't have a sincere desire to stop drinking. I understand this guy and where he's coming from but AA will be there when he loses it and the people to support him will be there. Meetings will always be boring to the person who still has a bellly full of booze.
2Thirds thru, when he teared up, that caught me ... ... He's extremely! fortunate he has a very understanding partner who knows/accepts his Alcoholic Mood Swings ... ... He's a good man. He just has a Habit/Addiction, thats greater than others. He NEEDS! to find a Purpose!!! I wish him the absolute best 😔🙏🙏🙏☕️
Finding things you like to do is depressing- everyone needs a purpose. Probably the reason I can’t retire - being bored I think I would need drugs or alcohol - horrible truth when you are not so fond of people…
I’m curious, he says he’s drinking out of boredom because he’s just sitting in the tiny house all day…what’s going to change when he gets the apartment? He’s just going to be sitting in an apartment, so I’m wondering what the difference is.
I like this guy. And what I'm really glad to hear is that he takes good care of his dog. I have an issue with homeless people having animal companions, although I get it. And he's got a good sense of humor. I wish him well.
I can relate to his experience at an aa meeting. This channel is similar to one. Very depressing and alot of sobbing. I love this channel and i love you mark. But the rawness and insanity of some people's experiences are not things that will encourage soberiety. But I don't think it's even about sobriety. I think it's about love and peace and being a decent human being.
He just stated what I was going to say he's a functioning alcoholic my mother's partner (we called her aunt) was one, my dad was but he was sober for 20+ years, my sister and so is my husband. Thank goodness me and my brother are more like our mom and we aren't drinkers.
As a single mom from a dysfunctional family, I would do anything (except sex work) to earn money. Sweep sidewalks, clean toilets, babysit, pick up trash, work retail… There’s always something you can do or help with. My daughter saw my work ethic and is now a Private Wealth Manager for a big bank. Sitting around drinking because there’s nothing to “do” is just another excuse.
As an alcoholic gay man who got sober 12 years ago at 47 years of age in Southern California, I wish to encourage Johan to put the drink down and honestly try to get sober. My life now is so good that it’s way beyond what I could have ever imagined. I don’t regret having been an active alcoholic, but am incredibly grateful that I’m now a sober alcoholic. Life is so much better now. Sobriety is truly the easier, softer and more fulfilling way.
From one sober alcoholic to another, I applause you’re sobriety. 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
Well said. AA saved my life.
always an easier, softer way. congrats ❤
I’m also a friend of Bill and Bob
i don’t know how to enjoy life without alcohol even though i have so much to live for. i hate it. it consumes me. i still have hope. ❤
Completely misjudged him from his still. This is why I love this channel, it constantly challenges me to face my own biases.
I agree this chanel proves you can't judge a book by its cover. Maybe a certain situation can be predicted with stereotypes. But not marks still photos. Amazing
I've been following Mark for years now. I find him very gentle with his interviews. He's done a remarkable job! ❤
oh you thought he was better than drinking himself into social security at 45. Yep he defied your big standards. wtf fuck you
oh and he's gay now real winner
That's cool. Great comment😊
Was addicted to heroin and drinking of alcohol for over 7 years. Also suffered severe depression. Not until my wife recommended me to psilocybin mushrooms treatment. After trying out a psilocybin treatment, I will be 2 years clean. Never thought I would be saying this about mushrooms.
I've been looking to try shrooms, just very difficult to get a reliable source here in Australia. Really need!
Hey! Yes very sure of Dr.benshrooms. my first shrooms trip was really awesome. It felt like I was deep into the sea
I've done microdosing for help and it works does cut depression out it's been the best remedy I've ever had. Psilocybin being illegal is actually a crime against humanity!
Yes he's dr.benshrooms. Isd and psilocybin are amazing teachers along its dmt mah dudes.have safe trips all. Shrooms are blessings from nature.
was addicted to what i called a trifecta Meth, Opium, Alcohol. I also suffered severe depression i went to a party and consumed about 2 eights of shrooms i was lost in my head for 2 days but when i came back my depression and addiction to my trifecta was gone. I didn't realize it at the time. The psychedelic experience is temporary but many people have good permanent results
I love how well-spoken and honest he is. Not a mean or bitter guy, either.
until he is drunk, many of people like him, they cast this hell upon themself...
@davidhocevar8510 still I'd trust him before these con men on here selling shrooms!!!
@@timothyslaughter476 ofc, i didnt say he is bad or anything, it is just sad that addiction will destroy him...
@davidhocevar8510 I know I just get pissed at these dirt merchants on y tube selling their shit shrooms on a channel where people are bearing their souls and struggles so maybe some people will look and say I don't want that to be me. Fucking tripping aint the answer. Not from some hack. Sobriety is. California sober??? Yeah right ...California shit!!
I'm an alcoholic who has been struggling for years recently. I stopped drinking for about 5 years. 25 to 30. I'm 40 now. It ruined many things in my life. Selfish behavior that I am ashamed of. One quote that always hit me is, 'alcohol gives you the wings to fly, then takes away the sky.'
All the love and strength to you.♥
I'm not at the point I experience DT but I drink a six pack of 10 percent beers 2-3 times a week and that's what gets me. Alcohol turns the normal reserved, man-of-few-words me into a lively, talkative person and I love it. I dance when I drink, you wouldn't catch me dancing sober, EVER. It gives me wings... but it can take everything else.
It's hard to reconcile with that fact sometimes and VERY easy to embrace the illusion.
@@mastershake8018 smoke some loud cuh
@@Samsontickletip Weed is for kids.
What a sweet man. I’m sorry that his background led him to this. I wish him well.
Yes, he is so kind and he's so relaxed
Fought a losing battle for over a decade to keep my father from killing himself with alcohol. The absolute smartest, most accomplished, and most empathetic man I've ever known. But he couldn't escape the demons of his past. Took me a long time to accept that I had been dealing with two very different people, and that I never really had a chance of affecting the eventual outcome.
@@baublesanddolls I was like the little boy putting his finger into the damn to try and stop the flood. I felt like I had to try, no matter how hopeless the attempt, or I wouldn't be able to repect myself. That kind of thinking came very close to pulling me down too.
That's wise. All that can be done is giving unconditional love.
I’m sorry that you had to endure that. This life is full of trauma. You did the right thing by trying, and you should be commended for that. A caring person is hard to find these days. I wish you the best!
We can't do anything to make them stop drinking- they have the absolute power of that. There is only one of them, it's not a split.
@@user-jf4nt1vb3e His demons were just that, his demons. No offense but that's not my story to tell and anything I said would just be my speculation.
Johan seems very put together compared to other SWU interviewees. Hoping him getting his own place again will give him some structure.
I see a lot of people saying he has a responsibility problem. I do agree but I can't begin to imagine what the trama from being assaulted like that from the age of 5 would do to a man. I'd say, given that he's more well adjusted than most. I think he could benefit from medical assistance with the alcohol issue as well as CBT.
@Broskisnowski most alcoholics I know are totally off the rails, I do know some functioning herion and pill users tho, guess it just depends on where you're from and who you know
He's so well-spoken and genuine. Johan is one of the most honest persons I've seen on SWU. He doesn't hide or minimalize his addiction and that's good, because with good introspection, people can see their mistakes and change for the better. I wish him well and I would like to see a second part with him and see his progress. Thank you for sharing his story with us Mark.
Animals will show you the way, Johan.
Find your peace in helping animals. ♥️
Johan you made me cry when you started to cry 😢I hope it all works out for you and I really hope you return to Germany one day
You still laugh at your life despite your struggles
Good luck dear 🇬🇧❤
It's a terrible illness. What a nice man. So sorry for him. I lost two beloved family members to alcohol, both of them good men, brilliant successful but heart breaking things happened, my step father's youngest son died in a car accident. My uncle was an engineer for Nasa and was laid off after Apolo was cut. Depression and alcohol are fatal.
I’ve legitimately blacked out on several occasions. Zero memory. Insanely bad hangovers that lasted days. (Sober now for 23 years). Maybe try treatment. You are put together and should be able to get a job. You are likable and hire-able! You can spend your days finding a job. Keep up with the meds and hang in there!
Im clean 6 years it's difficult. Be Strong. Life is an adventure its up to you how you want to explore.
He seems like a great guy. I didn't want this one to end.
I wish Johan peace and blessings in his future. He’s a sweet soul.
Lieber Johan, ich wünsche Ihnen alles erdenklich Gute! Sie sehen meinem ehemaligen Tierarzt sehr ähnlich, ich kann sofort vorstellen, wie großartig Sie sich um Ihren Hund kümmern.
Ich hoffe Sie kommen eines Tages zurück nach Deutschland, wir können hier mehr empathische und ehrliche Menschen gebrauchen.
Lots of love from Germany
Süß
You can always tell when Mark shows more interest in some interviews than others. This man could be anyone's friend and fit in. A humble wise soul. I hope he breaks free from his alcoholism one day. ❤
He looks so different in the interview compared to the thumbnail picture. Really very striking.
This man reminds me of my X boyfriend. I had warm n fuzzy feelings towards my X. when it ended, it was heart breaking. They are who are . I hope he gets , sober .
He's accountable. Here's the evidence: 1) I was making really bad decisions when I was drinking. 2) Some of my drinking was self-medicating. 3) Am I proud of this? No. But it's part of my life. 4) I was so busy drinking, I didn't know that the time was passing. 5) Between my bills and the dog, everything else is alcohol.
Well he blamed the USA for his drinking habit.
@@jq2147Saying that doesn't out weight his whole story overall imo
Johan - Was hast du getan!
@@jq2147Yeah, me too, and I’m American.
@@Toonces666 Sad excuse.
I really feel for him. He is so genuine and gentle. Coming from a family of alcoholics and breaking the cycle, I can confidently say alcoholism and drug abuse is an illness. They aren't necessarily bad people, they need help.
This channel really shows how many people have had such messed up lives. As someone who has had their struggles it really opens your mind up to how many people had messed up childhoods that ultimately lead to on going problems that last a lifetime.
Thanks Mark for bringing so many important issues to us. It means the world to me.
Johan seems like a very intelligent man. I wish the best to him and his family on his path in life.
Crazy to think that this guy, by most people's standards, is hammered on booze in this interview, but because of dependence and tolerance it makes him appear really lucid and switched on.
Yes, It's really weird that this is his normal state. Some alcoholics I have met seem more drunk when sober than when they are drunk..
He mentioned that he drank some days more and somedays less, and before this interview he was on liquor.
Being an alcoholic myself most of my adult life, some phases sober, it reminded me of the beginning of a binge after a crash and when you get some pep your step so the say. Like a few days after a hard crash.
What you said is a real thing, As much as the cycle part. At least the kind of use he described.
I was drinking a half gallon a day of vodka unless they smelled it they couldn't tell.
Completely functional held a job until my liver quit.
Yeah my brother was drinking 10 super strength lager a day 8.5 per cent alcohol and he wasn't even drunk at all. His tolerance was so high.
Im an alcoholic. Have been since i was about 6 years old. Im 46. Im not leaving las vegas alchoholic but i drink every day. Every day for the past 30+ years. Its a burden. Induces depression. Lost a marriage. Tons of guilt. Its overwhelming. I want to stop but due to the stress of everyday life i continue to numb myself. And on goes this madness of life.
I'm right there with ya
The Naked Mind is a good book. Helped me quit
Sorry to hear this , my friend was able to quit at age 52 that was 12 years ago. He started at age 11 , he is most likely ADHA and a few other things ,but never diagnosed and only self medicated . He drank because he never felt right sober. It was hard for him to quit it took a few times.
@@Alpha-Mike-Foxtrothow r u now?
I get why you wouldn’t want to come to America-this country has deteriorated and will continue to do so.
Anyone that loves animals is a good person in my book. Johan I hope your future gets better. Best wishes to you, your dog and your husband. 💜🙏🙏💜
I really can relate to this guy quite a bit, because I was born in the 60s I learned to survive and I thank God I had my older brothers to hang on to. I was thrown out of my house and I was only 15, I learned to drink, and self medicate for decades but back then I didn't know what else to do? I was a kid, I was molested when I was 6-7yr kid and my life has been a rollercoaster from hell!! I'm alive still but I still struggle with addiction and I'm used the way it is nowadays doctors don't really help,they get you on pain killers and cut you off!! I'm so screwed up and all I wanted was to be helped... but everyone I know is dead my dad died when I was 11, and mom died when I was 23 and all my brothers passed at young ages, all friends are dead from suicide and od and I only have one sister left and she's 67, last year our oldest sister died last July..me and my sister just wonder 🤔
"Who's next?!. No one is left anymore.. God bless everyone watching and struggling, thank you Mark for sharing with us. I'm watching you from Tucson Arizona
stay strong hun💪💪💪🦾🦾🦾
Good luck to you, Johan. You seem like a very nice man and I think you deserve a better life. You can do it.
What a great interview. I hope the best for Johan.
Johan you are such a humble, honest, kind gentleman. I completely understand what you are going through. This alcohol addiction, my father died of alcohol poisoning. We lived through this very difficult time. Talking to Two different people when under the influence. Pretty scary for his kids.
I truly hope that you receive the help you need with your health issues. So relieved to see you are here.
Thank you for sharing your story. Stay strong ❤💪🏼
Thank you Mark
He is quite smart. Im sure at this point the alcohol is keeping him alive both chemically, and emotionally. This world is so full of fcking pain.
Nice guy, interesting, good interview. I know what he means about how having nothing to do leads to drinking. Boredom is a big factor in alcoholism.
In all drugs and bad habits. Boredom will cause trouble if you don't know how to channel the frustration of it.
His candour is priceless. All the best.
What an intelligent, kind, and introspective man. Like many of the others, he was broken as a little boy. Poor soul.
I hope Mark keeps in touch with Johan and revisits him in another interview after some time. He said he no longer has anything productive to offer, but it certainly sounds like he has a very marketable freelance skill. I hope he realizes that if he can accept the help he'll need to quit drinking (and the desire to do so), he has many more fruitful years ahead of him. And if he outlives his older husband, hopefully one day he goes back home to Germany and spends his final years with his elementary school soulmate, home where his heart is.
Great interview, Mark.
It's not too late. You're so young and so intelligent. ❤🙏 I'll pray for you.
As an alcholic in recovery I get this man
I am a recovering alcoholic. AA saved my life.
Good on ya, man
I’ll drink to that 🍻
AA is for quiters
Thanks for sharing, it's nice to think my father knew deep down what he did when he was drunk. The worst raging alcoholic I have ever seen, he is now 61 over 300 lbs and I believe he has alcohol related dementia. Hope you kick that can man. ✌
Like people always said, alcoholics have to own up to their problems, when confronted, they consider themselves to be happy drunks even while they are destroying every one or thing around them.
I’m an addict in recovery. Clean and sober for 6 years now. I’m 42. Got diagnosed with cirrhosis, end stage liver disease at 36. Had a liver transplant at 38. Everyone said “you’re too young for this” And so on but ADDICTION DOESN’T CARE! Addiction doesn’t discriminate. Alcohol is not looked down upon whereas herion/crack/fentanyl etc is. Alcohol Is everywhere. EVERYONE deserves to live a healthy, sober, happy life and it’s in your hands! YOU have the power to stop even if it doesn’t feel like you do. YOU ARE NOT ALONE, WE DO RECOVER! One day at a time. ❤
Congratulations so proud of you I just hit my one year SOBER July 17th you are an inspiration for the rest of us 💖
@@lizstorck8851 congratulations! 👏❤️
Wow, I’m having some liver issues as well I’m 34, I have been drinking 3 glasses of wine or beer every night for 5 years, I got sick 3 weeks ago I ended up in the emergency room, I was told I was having alcohol withdrawal symptoms. I said no I’m a working mom I go to work every day I take care of home and myself and my kids, I never thought it was a problem. I started therapy and I’m taking Naltrexone for the past two weeks I have not drink. But I’m happy for you keep it up!
Young quite often just means you still have the energy to destroy yourself quickly. I'm glad you're still here! Alice Cooper always said that the problem with drinking was that alcohol is so accessible. I heard that years ago and it always stuck.
@@robheon144 so true! Thank you for the kind words.
Wow. Two years older than me, and he's on social security and has a business run by his son. Meanwhile, I'm wondering if I'll be ready to settle down and have kids at some point in the next five years. Life sure is different for different people.
Lieber Johan, ich wünsche Ihnen alles erdenklich Gute und viel Glück für Ihren weiteren Lebensweg. Möge Gott Sie beschützen.
Think he should go back to Germany. It’s his home. Worth a go. Love this man.
Alcoholism is no joke. It ruins people's lives. A lot of people can suffer from one person's alcoholism.
Johan, that was insightful. Thank you for being truthful.
Drinkers always have a reason to drink. It’s sunny out let’s drink, it’s raining let’s drink etc etc etc. learned that when dating an alcoholic
When he said his dad was sixties and died. That’s old to me. I just had my liver removed at 52. I’d be dead. Total liver failure, cirrhosis and varicies. I went through a lot. It’s too bad I know wat is about to put him through. It’s aweful and lonely death.
I was a heroin addict for 3 years at a time and an alcoholic for 3 years at a time for almost 20 years. Never at the same time but both completely comsumed me when using them. I'd much rather be on opiates than alcohol if i didn't have a choice to be completely abstinent. Alcoholism is a slow burn to hell.
I love that last sentence.
Sound like me. I never mixed the 2 things together, but for many years Id swing off and on between the 2. booze, then H for a few months binge, then back to booze and so on. quit H 7-8 years ago, cant remember, quit booze 2.5 years ago. and agreed, would rather be on opiates than booze. However, I cannot stand opiate withdrawls. i have had to take pills here and there after surgeries. I get withdrawls after 3-5 days of use not abuse. Never triggered or even gave me the slightest inclination to get back on H. H is over with, especially ow that Fent is only thing out there. I smoked black tar, never shot. I hated the constipation more than anything. opiates are like an airtight cork in my guts. I can handle the withdrawls, something cathartic about a intense H withdrawl. Pure misery and pain, you feel reborn when you come out the other side. Being sober is the best though, good sleep, healthy guts, regular bowel movements, higher focus and general happiness.
Alcohol is the worst drug on the planet, I was a alcoholic with times if sobriety for 20 years... Sober and 37 now and working on staying that way
"If one day you end up old and alone and im old and alone just come home"
Seems like a very kind and intelligent man. Drinking has been a huge part of his life for so long and he seems to not have suffered a lot from it that the only that I think that might get him to stop is if his husband forces him to. Johan you can accomplish so much more. I encourage you to get into a program and get sober and live your life to the fullest!
Johan - for your sake, your husband’s sake, and most of all the sake of your children - please get sober. You are worth it and you can do it. There is help if you look for it. AA has helped some people but it’s not for everyone. There are other alternatives. Best of luck
We know you can do it, Johan! We love you and are pulling for you❤
Glad you could open up Mr Johan. I bet it feels good to tell your story. Praying for you
Good morning everyone. It is just after 3:00 a.m. here in Northern California USA, where it is currently 61 °.
Wherever this finds you, I hope that you are safe, comfortable & well. 💜
indeed it is, it’s quite quiet here in los angeles, hope everyone have a blessed night
Hi Roc, great to see you, have a great day my friend!!!!!!!
@@Gram72534 Hello Gram! Good to see you too, thanks friend! Sending some mad California love your way ✌🏽🙃💜
HEYYYYY ITS BOUT 5:35 A.M ROUND HERE IN
MEMPHIS TN AND 80°.
ALL LOVE IS RETURNED GREATLY AND WE ALL HOPE THAT YOU ARE SUPER DUPER SAFE N COMFORTABLE!
(Even tho we barely survivin'! But still Havin fun!)
LOVE YAAAA. 💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕
Ya All is well... ❤️🩹
Johan, I hope this comment finds you in a better place. I'm struck by your kindness, thoughtfulness, and reasonableness. These qualities are a testament to your strong character and provide a foundation for hope in the face of your current challenge. I understand that alcoholism is a difficult battle that requires both resilience and determination to overcome. You have already displayed these qualities by acknowledging your alcoholism and seeking a way forward. It takes immense courage to admit our vulnerabilities and take decisive steps towards healing. Although you have been away from your home country for the most part, I believe that the good man I see in this video has the resilience to rise above this challenge.
So, the million-euro question . . . why doesn't he go back to Germany? He was happier there. He has friends and support there. He and his husband can have a more pleasant life together there. He'd be busier there, with less incentive to drink. He could make it happen. It would be tragic for a smart and funny man to just . . . fade away.
This is so well spoken and honest, both Mark and Johan.
Johan
You got this, dude!
You want to be sober. I can hear it in your voice. Get some help!!!!
You have a huge community praying for you, rooting for you!!!
The denial here is very real. He says he’s a functioning alcoholic. Losing your job, family and home to alcohol is not “functioning”.
Well said
I'm alcoholic and a immigrant. No family here in USA. I know. Thank you for sharing.
He has a husband and he takes care of their friend. He is not alone!!!! 6:50
@@phyllysanantonio I have three adult children and grandchildren but I know what he said, no culture, and the family we are coming from is not here.
Can you not leave and go back where you have family? What is stopping you from doing that?
@@minigirl6839 free money!!!
@@minigirl6839 it stopped him and I because of shame, being broke, being failures, defeated. Sicks and addicts.
Laut einer aktuellen Studie, hat hier in Deutschland jeder Vierte eine Alkoholabhängigkeit. Eine schlimme Krankheit.
Für Johann alles Gute 🌻
I hate to hear how this guy fears being alone. It breaks my heart to know that SO many people are all alone. No one should be lonely with so many people around. We live in a selfish and wicked world.
He is so honest and well spoken. I can relate to his alcohol dependency. I just recently went into treatment after 3 decades of drinking. I still struggle with sobriety and getting to meetings. Its a struggle for me. I just recently was prescribed naltrexone tablets and it is helping me a lot and cuts the cravings. I hope and johan can get some positive support
When I was an alcoholic I would wake up to a four Loko or joose to get out of the withdrawal stage feel good enough to go to work. I would have to have another one around noon after work and then whatever else I wanted to drink at home. When you're drinking that much it is very likely that you actually blackout I've done that multiple times. I think you're actually blacked out when you're waking up in jail and not knowing why you're there but being told what you did. Or the temporary blackout swear you blocked out and wake up on the floor after having your ass beat because for some reason you thought it was a good idea to stand up and try to fight someone randomly. I'm glad I'm no longer an alcoholic it was definitely the hardest part of my life, I drink to get drunk as quick as possible cuz I enjoyed the feeling. I am very lucky to still have my family to this day. Had my wife had the ability to leave I know she would have. I don't smoke it but what stuns me is marijuana ever being illegal and still being illegal in some places. Alcohol can downright destroy your life or end it if you let it I'm about five years sober from alcohol now. I've been lucky to never have a DUI so now I have my CDL. I never made it a habit of driving drunk but when you're an alcoholic and your body relies on alcohol to function, you're going to be over the legal limit at all times but that's your normal.
💚 I thoroughly enjoyed listening to him, wishing him health peace and happiness and he’s right he’ll leave the apartment WAY better than it was 🤣
I agree with his comment about being in Germany vs. America as someone who's lived in both places. When people run into problems here, there are fewer reliable services to help them overall.
There are no resources here in America. Pretty much none. The social services that exist *really* exist just to provide jobs for the people that run them. If you don't have money in America, you could literally die on the street and nobody would care one single bit.
I have been drinking to get drunk almost every day since 1997. I have probably gone 24 hours without drinking less than 30 times in almost 30 years. But I usually am sober for work. I don't know how people can be drunk 24/7. I would die.
What a voice, he could be doing voice over work. Quite easy to listen to, entertaining and insightful. I would recommend Johan to put himself out there, perhaps create his own YT channel as I for one would like to hear much more from him, as I've rewatched this interview a few times and each time I find it more fascinating. If you see this Johan, know that you have value and potential and to keep pushing forward. This is just one phase of your life's journey and doesn't have to define you.
I disagree. Its rather dumb for you to make such a useless reply to my comment, Caitlyn (or Caitlyn's mom). If you're the kid, I can understand your primitive and pointless comment.
If you're the mom I can also understand it as most Americans are idiots- but try not to be so GD stupid for the kid's sake. @@squiggletree5080
It's good to know that you're aware as an alcoholic that it has an effect on the non existent relationship that you have with your children. It helps me to understand a perspective I never thought to consider in my own life. Thank you for sharing Johan.
This video was worth watching imo!! It is very informative!!
A 9 year old does not "choose" to have sex.
Hi Johan. You’re a smart man. You can quit drinking alcohol.
You’ll figure it out if you really want to.
Was I the only one whose jaw hit the floor when he said he was gay?
Had to come back- this is one of the most transparent people Mark has interviewed in my opinion. I genuinely like this dude.
AA isn't going to help anyone who doesn't have a sincere desire to stop drinking. I understand this guy and where he's coming from but AA will be there when he loses it and the people to support him will be there. Meetings will always be boring to the person who still has a bellly full of booze.
I wish him well. Hope he can overcome the addiction.
2Thirds thru, when he teared up, that caught me ...
... He's extremely! fortunate he has a very understanding partner who knows/accepts his Alcoholic Mood Swings ...
... He's a good man.
He just has a Habit/Addiction, thats greater than others.
He NEEDS! to find a Purpose!!!
I wish him the absolute best
😔🙏🙏🙏☕️
Finding things you like to do is depressing- everyone needs a purpose. Probably the reason I can’t retire - being bored I think I would need drugs or alcohol - horrible truth when you are not so fond of people…
He looks 60 years old not 46. Wow.
he has a good heart
I’m curious, he says he’s drinking out of boredom because he’s just sitting in the tiny house all day…what’s going to change when he gets the apartment? He’s just going to be sitting in an apartment, so I’m wondering what the difference is.
Totally fair question. He will just be in a bigger space, bored still. It’s what you make it.
Because when he gets the apartment, his husband can move back in with him and he won’t be lonely.
I like this guy. And what I'm really glad to hear is that he takes good care of his dog. I have an issue with homeless people having animal companions, although I get it. And he's got a good sense of humor. I wish him well.
"Don't talk to me while I'm watching Jeopardy"...that'll piss anybody off!😂
Johan we see your worth. Please get help. You have so much life still to live and live well. Pulling for you!
I really enjoyed this interview. For once not wallowing in their muck but some pride in who they are, warts and all. Inspiring.
I think this guy is a sweetheart
Best wishes sir!
Black out drunk is very very real. Speaking from experience
I can relate to his experience at an aa meeting. This channel is similar to one. Very depressing and alot of sobbing. I love this channel and i love you mark. But the rawness and insanity of some people's experiences are not things that will encourage soberiety. But I don't think it's even about sobriety. I think it's about love and peace and being a decent human being.
46? I’m 45 and he looks old enough to be my dad.
Such a nice guy, just has a drinking problem
Bless your heart, Johan. I hope you're doing better.
I do not think he has accountability issues. I think he’s pretty smart bright has a future.🦋
I havent smoked or drank in a few years. I can tell you I think about smoking way more than drinking
He just stated what I was going to say he's a functioning alcoholic my mother's partner (we called her aunt) was one, my dad was but he was sober for 20+ years, my sister and so is my husband. Thank goodness me and my brother are more like our mom and we aren't drinkers.
If he tries to put that bottle down, he will probably die. He needs to be medically detox
Most definitely. He would experience seizures, almost certainly 😢
As a single mom from a dysfunctional family, I would do anything (except sex work) to earn money. Sweep sidewalks, clean toilets, babysit, pick up trash, work retail… There’s always something you can do or help with. My daughter saw my work ethic and is now a Private Wealth Manager for a big bank. Sitting around drinking because there’s nothing to “do” is just another excuse.
Wow. All the potential in the world and I think he truly knows this but ignores it.
I want a update on Johan❤