This video is such a testament to how adept at lying depression is. From my perspective, it is SO obvious that John’s work is a net positive for the world, but if depression can make him doubt that, no wonder it convinces the rest of us sometimes too. John, I pray this time of quiet allows you to hear the tune without the words soon. We’re so grateful for you and all you do.
No one questioned Hank's duties changing when he was sick and needed his job to be his health. RIght now, let your health be your job. We love you. We will love you quietly through this, and we will love you loudly when you come back.
john and hank have been making videos for most of my life. i've been watching them for more than half. helped? yea they've helped. they are both hugely influential in my life
I routinely read the comments. I *know* this is helping people. Every video helps someone. Probably a bunch of someones who don't make their own comments but feel the same as the ones who do.
I'm lucky to not deal with depression but my wife does and I often feel like my duty is to remind her of the good things and remind her that before long those things will feel real again and that the despair will pass
Take all the time you need, John. In the river I used to go to as a kid, people would make a ring of stones around an area of shallow water to help that area be warmer. You are not dumping clean water into bad water, you and Hank built an area where the water was better, our own ring of stones in the river. The river keeps flowing, but it doesn't move the stones. Nerdfighteria will be here when you're ready, because we're here.
John just delivered a concise and damning indictment of depression and meaninglessness before the world, **while suffering through part of his brain feeding him the very same lies from depression.** That’s so fucking metal.
Yes! I’ve had depression since being a pre-teen, but didn’t recognize it until I was NINETEEN. 🎓 Found out it was intertwined with anxiety over the next 5 yrs. Started college again and studied from then, on thru the pandemic and then 2 yrs. more. 📖 Now I’m taking a break due to a CVST (stroke) 🧠💥at age 27. ❤🩹Today is one yr. later and I’ll be turning 29 next month. 💖Even though I am much improved, there’s still more 💚growing to do. 💛To John (& Hank), I’ve had your videos and books as part of my support system over the last dozen years, and I encourage you 🙏 to take all the time you need, and give yourself the same comfort 🛌that I found from you in my past struggles and continuing growth.🪴🫶🌅
Fill your bucket with clean water and drink long and deep, John. 17 years is a long time in a career, and an ETERNITY for the internet. Your work has brought public awareness to how pervasive, yet treatable TB is in underdeveloped/underserved parts of the world, and so many of us connect deeply with your books. Your candor is refreshing and POSITIVE. I have no doubt that Nerdfighteria will be holding you up and ready to support you no matter what you end up doing.
This was so encouraging and inspiring! Thank you for sharing and being brave enough to do this! I think you will never know all the people you’ve helped. I look forward to visiting with you soon!
I can't tell you how many times I've told people the good news from Vlogbrothers - Infant mortality has declined over time. - Many people are banding together to cure the world's most deadly disease even though it mostly impacts poor people. - Companies cab be wildly successful even if they are non profit. - Treating people with compassion can be a road to success - It's OK to be silly while doing important work. And some of these things sometimes absolutely change a person's world-view. News and social media absolutely want us to believe that the world only gets worse, and the only thing we can do about it is come back later and get shocked about it again. It's so important to have the reality of good news and community have real voices.
As an occupant of a world that almost lost Hank Green, I can verify that the world also desperately needs John Green. So I implore you to take whatever steps you deem necessary to preserve John Green. We'll be here when you get back.
John, you aren't dumping a bucket of clean water into the toxic lake, you are saving star fish. The number of sea stars that wash ashore may look insurmountable but tossing even one back into the ocean is still saving a life, it matters to that one i hope your break lets you refresh and come back twice as strong, we will all be waiting for you sincerely, one little sea star
Here is what I'll say: I didn't get out my depression only because of Vlogbrothers, but your work in particular, John, kept me afloat while I did the extremely difficult work you're doing now and that you've done before. You will make it through this, and I hope come back to us, but if you aren't able to, we will support and love you from afar in whatever ways feel good for you. I'm so so so thankful for the Green brothers, and glad that you're setting a good example for me and all the other mentally ill mofos out there. Take care of yourself above the world.
I am so grateful anytime someone I admire speaks openly about their mental health struggles. Like so much of John's work, it makes me feel less alone. You are helping others, lighting a path, even by taking a break and prioritizing your mental health. I am equally moved by the compassion and wisdom in the comments. Vlogbrothers raised nerdfighteria right.
You probably won't see this since it's been a while, but I just want to say that your portrayal of Lizzie Bennet has helped me through a lot of difficult times and I'm really grateful for it.
@@dustinandrews89019 A win is a win. If anything I see it as proof of strength, days so bad you're truly on the brink, but you _still_ made it through them. Means, whatever the reason was, they couldn't beat you.
John, the Anthropocene Reviewed saved my life last year. My two children would thank you if they were old enough to know what was really going on with Mommy. Hearing your voice speak the truths of Sycamore trees, truths that live inside my skull, will continue to be a lifeline for me while I forever feel trapped in the game my mind plays. It tethers me to those small hands in mine and reminds me what the point is. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Those two words will never be enough.
Absolutely, I think there are a lot of people on the Internet (myself included) that are just looking for that nice, cold glass of water amidst this toxic lake. John and Hank have given me enough of those glasses of water over the year to fill a swimming pool.
Classic John, making me cry at 10am on a Tuesday through sheer earnestness and belief in hope even in the face of hopelessness and despair. Hope isn't a lie; it is a practical tool that we need to get through life. John, your work has helped me be less despairing, and I hope you benefit from a well-deserved break from the Internet. We'll be here when you get back.
John, I’m not the one to usually comment in videos, but I just wanted you to know that the world is definitely better with you (and all the thing you do) in it! Take as much time as you need! Sending you lots of love from Brazil! 💚💛
All these decades since I've graduated high school and I finally have words to explain why even then I knew that the nihilists who thought they were deep were really just intellectually lazy
I love you, John. In a non-parasocial way, in the way I love the books that changed my life. You have changed my way of thinking, my outlook on people, and helped me balance my own personal emotional ecosystem. I've been watching vlogbrothers since middle school, and your voices have been a constant reminder of what is important. The water is not poisonous, it never has been. I hope your rest helps you, I hope it is truly rest. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
This is a great reminder that being successful does not magically make your mental health issues go away. Sometimes I tell myself, "Once I reach this one goal, I'll finally be okay." The goalposts just keep moving, though. I'm sure if you told an 18-year-old John Green that he would one day have a successful writing career with one of the best selling books of all time, movies made from his books, a beautiful family, and a long history of incredible charity work, he'd be like, "Wait? What?? That's amazing! Surely that means I'm happy and everything is great." But... the goalposts just keep moving, and they always will. I gotta remind myself that no achievement is suddenly going to turn me into a happy person because life doesn't work that way.
This is very true. Often times the more you want something and the more you fantasize about it the less meaningful it is when you finally get it. Humans are unfortunately hardwired to never really have "enough" and to overemphasize "this is what I wish I had" rather than being content with what they do have or seeing the positives. We're all like this to some extent (negativity bias is very real) but this is amplified by an order of magnitude with depression.
John, I know your brain won't let you hear it, but I still have to emphasize that in the last 2 years, you and Hank did more good for this world than ever before. - You brought TB to the forefront of so many of us that had no idea it even still existed - You helped raise millions of dollars to improve the lives of people in Sierra Leone, and don't even think that the lives already saved aren't at least partially your doing, because they are! People who were doomed to die are alive because of you! And no, stop thinking "that was all Hank", because it wasn't! You are a serious force for good in this world and if we had more people like you and Hank, we would live in a better world. I hope you can recover quickly!
+ my favorite thing that DFTBA stands for is Dont Forget To Breathe Amigo, sometimes we just need to take time and space to ourselves to breathe. Sometimes we need time to ourselves, breaks to prevent burnout and all that. DFTBA means a lot of things but to me it first and foremost means don't forget to take care of yourself as you have to take care of yourself to be awesome and care for others
I’ve been watching from the shadows all these years. You make me proud to be a human. You give me hope for the future. So many hugs, John. I’ll be watching still. All respect. ❤
John, you probably won't see this, but earlier this month I picked up *The Anthropocene Reviewed* while flying home from a work trip. The other thing I picked up on that trip was COVID, which made me quarantine for 10 days in an Airbnb away from my 5-month old baby and my partner who had, while i was out of commission, surgery to remove cancer. I didn't have energy to do much while I was sick, but in the few hours a day that I was awake, I read your book. Its relentless hopefulness helped me make it through the worst two weeks of my life so far. Take care of yourself, take the time you need, and thank you.
John, I just got diagnosed with OCD and wanted to share my deepest thanks for taking on the cost of sharing pieces of yourself to help others like me. Sending you love with a new level of empathy and also tremendous pride in you for taking this time away.
The poem about the candle burning at both ends is very pretty and we really do love the light, but we also care about the candle. Thank you for taking the time you need.
In the words of John’s therapist “Everything will end, including this.” That little line from a Vlogbrothers video has stuck with me. Sometimes I say it out loud, sometimes just in my head. But even went I say it with sarcastic intent after a moment I start to feel the reassurance. I hope this month away is good to you John ♥️
I'm a crash course kid. I was homeschooled in high-school and crash course opened up learning pathways to me that still inspire me to this day. I've just graduated from my second masters degree. I will always be indebted to the acts of good you've put into the world and I hope my story can lighten a bit of the load you carry.
John- your contributions to the unsavory waters are like messages in bottles. You are under no obligation to continue writing & sending them forth, but please know that they are so much more than the mere volume they occupy. Your messages are thoughtful and inspiring, and I would wager a guess that they drive others to think and inspire as well. (I know this has been true for me.) Please prioritize the healing of your soul; you deserve happiness and fulfillment. That is all.
Depression says what it will, and so will I: You matter to me. I am grateful to live in a world with you and your work. Your books, the pod, brotherhood 2.0, and the vlog as it stands today have all been great companions to me for the last 17 years. You have cracked me open and held me together when I needed it, and offered me comfort and joy in days of fairweather. Thank you. Thank you. Good luck in July. I hope things improve. We'll be in your corner no matter what.
A whole month? For yourself? Hell yeah, John! Way to go! Take care of yourself, ok? You deserve love, even (and especially) from yourself. I'm so glad to hear you're taking care of yourself ❤
"Despair is a lie" and "Hopelessness is a lie" are probably the four most important words I've heard recently, especially for my own life. What a simple message, yet incredibly profound
In the spirit in which vlogbrothers has been delivered over the past 17 years, where sometimes John and Hank don't know if the work was worth it, it has ALWAYS been worth it. And this video may have been the most effective one of all.
Thanks so much for sharing this. I am so grateful for all the stuff you've put into the world. To say it back: "Hope sings the tune without the words and never stops at all." I (and I'm sure many others) will be praying for you and will be happy to see you whenever you're back.
Spreading a message of hope while you're in the well is selfless on a truly unbelievable level. Take all the time you need, John, You are very, very loved.
As someone who has also struggled with depression, I know you won't internalize this yet, but you and Hank have had an immense impact on me and my world view. A commitment to giving back, to using your voice and privilege for good, to reject the "fundamental" forces of exploitative capitalism instead for community and compassion, all while being silly and nerdy. Take all the time you need and then some, we love you and will be here when you get back ❤ DFTBA
Oh, John. We love you. You have no idea how many lives you have affected in a positive, helpful, honest way, not only with your wonderful work but also with your willingness to be honest about your mental health and the way your brain lies to you. ❤️💔
John, the things you make are not buckets of clean water in a toxic lake. They are a filter which cleans the polluted air that passes through it and makes it a little bit easier to breathe. Take as long and as frequent breaks as you need to and know we are grateful for you.
Yeah, the thing about Vlogbrothers videos is, when I feel stuck on an issue that's in the news or whatever, and I don't know what to think because it's complicated, and I don't know how to resolve this apparently black-and-white figure-ground binary perspective .... usually, the next Tuesday, John has a video that gives me a better way to think about it, that incorporates both sides, and all the complexity, into a perspective that makes it possible to move forward. And then I'm able to take that perspective, and apply it to other things, and de-toxify lots of parts of my life because of that 4 minutes with John.
As a kind professor said to me when I was going through an objectively tough time… “I can’t fix things for you but i wish that I could and if I had a magic wand, I would.” Despair is like water. Some days it laps at your heels and other days, you wade through it at waist height. You go about your day but now you notice when it’s rising. Rising until you get used to keeping your chin up to stop yourself from drowning. I’ve been at the bottom of that ocean too. Take your time John and build your life raft. The tides will change again and there’s calm on the horizon.
Also there are inevitably going to be ups and downs over a lifetime and Vlogbrothers has been going strong for 17 years. If John or Hank (or both) needs to take a month, or two or three or 12 off for their own health then that's okay. All the nerdfighters that matter would rather have a mentally healthy John than force him to destroy his own happiness for us.
This reminds me of “The Seduction of Despair” from John Green. I often watch it when I am feeling depressed. Thank you for sharing and using your platform for all you do. I understand needing a break. We’ll be here when you get back. You’re not alone in what you’re feeling and I hope it gets better.
I know this won't magically make the depression any quieter, but your talking about OCD has absolutely been life-changing for those of us also struggling with OCD. I started getting help through NOCD because of a UA-cam ad I saw for them, and ERP therapy has absolutely changed my life. I hope the next month helps you find what you need 💖
John, we are all joined this community because of you and your brother. We keep coming back because you made that mean something more. Little ideas like setting up a store to help your fans monetize their art turn into great big things like helping a coffee grower in South America have more direct control over their livelihood and then using the money from that to help the sick in Africa. You have done great big things and I am happy to play my little part in them. Take your time, we will be here.
"No simple story can ever be true, and there's no simpler story than 'nothing means anything.'" Always appreciate your wisdom and thoughtfulness, sending well wishes and hope you feel better soon 💖💖💖
Thank you, as ever, for modeling healthy responses to mental unhealth by acknowledging the hard challenges and nevertheless seeking hope in pursuit of the complex story that depression refuses to tell. Your light-soaked days are coming. 💜
❤ John, please allow yourself to wholeheartedly drop EVERYTHING but your selfcare for a while. Screw Twitter. Limit your news intake. You are a trying to eradicate TB, that is enough contribution for one lifetime. You are a sensitive person and you need to honor that, not change it. Your work changes lives for the better, that's simply a fact.
John - take it from me, a random guy in his 30s in Phoenix who’s been following you and Hank for a decade now - your books and everything else you do are the farthest thing from worthless I can imagine. You’ve made an incredible impact on my life and I know a much bigger one on countless others. Wishing you the best.
Take all the time you need. You matter and your health matters. We’ll be here if you need us. You’ve given us so much, both throughout your career and recently. You’ve made my life so much better and changed my outlook on humanity.
Thank you for taking a break John. Thank you. Clean your own lake, love your family, love every part of being alive. Plant some peas in your garden. I think of the peas in your garden so often. We're here. We're going to stick around. You mean so much to use all. Enjoy July and sing that tune. We will be here in August.
YES! Thank you so much, John, for taking care of yourself and for being honest about your needs. I actually think that videos like this one are one of the most important things you do for this community and for the world. Lately at my office job, when I have needed to take a day off for mental health reasons, I've been making a point to phrase it that way, saying to my team "I need a mental health day today" as opposed saying that I'm sick. I'm doing this because it is CRUCIAL that we eliminate stigma around mental health needs, and using our example to change norms is one of the best ways we can do that. Your openness about your mental health over the years is one of the things that helped me feel comfortable doing this. To see you now say "I need a mental health month" on a public platform with such honesty and care - it's very powerful, John. I hope that taking this break helps you, but regardless of what it does for you, it has already helped me and many others more than you know.
John, from a random person in Ukraine who struggles with depression and anxiety for the last 8 years - I love you. You and Hank are two people who inspire me the most and support me in my darkest times. Please rest as long as you need to feel better! You matter, and everything you do makes a world a better place! ❤❤❤
John ~ the wisdom, joy, humor,sanity, and humanity that you have shared with so many allows us all to carry all those things for you and return them to you multiplied, when you are ready and able to wrap them around you once more. May peace clothe you and love buoy you. Thank you so much!
John, you amaze me with your ability to be inspiring even when you’ve just shared how much despair you’re feeling. I hope your month away from the internet helps you feel happier. Take care of yourself in whatever way you need to. ❤
"it feels like all of my nerves are on the outside of my body" is such a great way of putting words to something i have felt so often i am so gratefull for this phrase. I hope the break helps you John, you have helped me in your announcement of it.
I was so glad when I realized this video title was genuinely what it was. For a while because of the things you've mentioned I've thought, "man John needs to take a break" and I'm so glad you are! I'm a kind of a Christian fellow and apparently you are too, so lean heavily into the grace & peace of the Lord and DFTBA!
Best. Comments. Section. Ever. Much love, John. Theres not a thing that I want to say that hasn't already said by multiple people in this comment thread, and that's a gorgous testament to you what you do.
being able to acknowledge the irrationality of depression while still being depressed is so real. I’ve always been acutely aware of when I’m depressed and yet I still fall into the same traps. the one silver lining is knowing that I’ve survived it once and *will* survive it again. and again. and again. I’m so sorry that you’re at the bottom of the well, john. it sucks, but hopefully this time off will give you the proverbial rope ladder to get out of the well. thank you for your openness and the helpful reminders.
You and Hank are a small beacon of light in an endless pit of human awfulness. Take as long as you need but then come back because when i myself feel like im drowning i can watch vlogbrothers and feel a bit better ❤️
"Everything great feels illusory and everything terrible feels utterly true." John has a way of articulating things that always hits me right where I'm at. Love you John. Take your time. Find your peace. Come back whenever you feel, or enjoy your peace.
Thank you for your wisdom, your kindness, your generosity of spirit, and your Johnness. Thank you for teaching me we’re here because we’re here because we’re here because we’re here. I am so proud of your bravery in filming and posting this video. ❤
Everything you've done has helped so many. Especially me for the last 15 years. Your quote is on my office wall, "we got there the only way you get anywhere good: together" ❤ thank you, John, sending you all the best!
Hooray for boundaries!!! We're all proud of you. You and your brother taught me how to be the kind of person I want to be, and so much of what I am have become and accomplished is because of you. And there are thousands, hundreds of thousands of us.
My now wife shared one of your older videos that can apply to depression when is tarted struggling with it too. The video is titled It's What You Make Of It: Thoughts From Venice. I go back and watch that from time to time, just to find myself that things can be better
Follow the bubbles. When you feel like you are drowning at the bottom, the bubbles will lead to the surface. Take care of yourself and others as you are able.
Get well soon John. You and your brother are a light in the darkness for me quite often. I hope you find your way to the top of the well in time. That first breath above water will feel glorious.
"Hope sings the tune" is something I try to remind myself whenever my depression kicks up. Depression as a concept can't exist if all hope is truly gone from a person. I love who you are, John, and looking forward to your return.
I'm sure I'm not alone in being moved to tears by this video, but I want to say the idea that "depression as a concept can't exist if all hope is truly gone from a person" made me cry too (in a good way). I just started crying again typing them out. Thank you
Take all the time you need John! And your content is definitely helping people... I just wrote my final essay in social justice (grade 12) on partners in health and their contributions to bettering maternal healthcare in Sierra Leone and now my teacher knows about it and it's awesome!!!
John, you are so important to so many of us. You are part of the solution that saved my life. When the voices of depression and anxiety make it hard for me to sleep, I listen to The Anthropocene Reviewed and feel less alone. You are loved. Those of us who pray keep you and your family in our prayers, and those of us who don’t send you vibes of strength and hope. We’ll be here, so you do what you need to do.
"Despair is a lie." this is the truth. You and your contributions are so so valuable and so needed in the world. Good luck while you're offline in finding your way out of the pit!
Thanks for the brutal openness, we the audience arn't entitled to it, but we appreciate it so much. There is really nothing more to say than we understand and wish you feel better, regardless of how much or little that means we get to see of you. DTFBA
I would just like to say that this community that Hank and John have created is actually one of the few places in social media that displays what we should all be striving for daily. Read the comments. They're beautiful, heartfelt, and true. This is what can be accomplished when we push ugliness aside and focus on what matters. If you need some examples of the bright side of life and humanity this is the place to go. 💜💚💙
Truth! I never cease to be amazed at how many genuine, articulate, compassionate, yet real people there are here in the comments. So much heart. Along with everything else John and Hank have done, they've fostered this incredible community. 💜🍀
Your stuff helps me, John. It has been helping since I started watching you guys in 2009. If you ever need to take time off, then I support you and want to see you taking care of yourself and your family. But you should never doubt your positive impact on the world and the millions of people who watch your videos and receive knowledge and positivity. This channel has been a constant and felt like a home to me the last 15 years. I love you guys!
Your buckets of clean water have kept me afloat, John. You and your work mean so much to so many people. I hope your break helps you in all the ways you need. The world is much less sucky because of you and your voice every day.
This is a super important video John. Normalising depression by putting yourself in a vulnerable position is a great example of what makes vlogbrothers so impactful. Small or big you make a difference to real people. Turn your face towards the sun; your shadows will fall behind you. I hope your July is filled with non-digital excitement and renewal ❤
Take the time you need John. And i know the words of a stranger on the internet won't triumph over your brain's (wrong) counsel, but I mean it from the bottom of my heart when I say it that the work you do matters, that the stuff you make changes lives and your being here is a blessing to us all.
Thank you John for everything! Your work and everything you bring has been bringing light to my life for well over a decade now. I hope your time away is restorative and healing 💗 sending you so much love!
This video is such a testament to how adept at lying depression is. From my perspective, it is SO obvious that John’s work is a net positive for the world, but if depression can make him doubt that, no wonder it convinces the rest of us sometimes too. John, I pray this time of quiet allows you to hear the tune without the words soon. We’re so grateful for you and all you do.
Yeah mental illness doesn't care about your status or wealth, it will find a way to tear you down
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No one questioned Hank's duties changing when he was sick and needed his job to be his health. RIght now, let your health be your job.
We love you. We will love you quietly through this, and we will love you loudly when you come back.
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Take all the time you need John! Sending love
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wishing you the best john ❤
take care of ur mental health too, youtube
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YT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
303 likes in 11 days, youtube fell off
@@TheYeetTeamlet’s keep it that way
“I don’t know if this is helping anyone.” It’s been helping me a lot for the past 15 years. ❤ Take the time you need, John.
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john and hank have been making videos for most of my life. i've been watching them for more than half. helped? yea they've helped. they are both hugely influential in my life
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Amen.
I routinely read the comments. I *know* this is helping people. Every video helps someone. Probably a bunch of someones who don't make their own comments but feel the same as the ones who do.
“Everything great feels illusory and everything terrible feels utterly true.” - holy cow this resonates. It’s hard to not just accept what seems true
I'm lucky to not deal with depression but my wife does and I often feel like my duty is to remind her of the good things and remind her that before long those things will feel real again and that the despair will pass
It's uncanny, those are the thoughts that I have regularly, but John expressed them so much better than I could.
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Thanks John Green for all the buckets of clean water you've given me.
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+ Couldn't agree more. John's words have saved me from dehydration more than once
Heal well, Internet Dad
You know we'll be here when you're ready, whether that's August, or whenever
"Despair is a lie. Hopelessness is a lie." - Thank you, John.
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Take all the time you need, John. In the river I used to go to as a kid, people would make a ring of stones around an area of shallow water to help that area be warmer. You are not dumping clean water into bad water, you and Hank built an area where the water was better, our own ring of stones in the river. The river keeps flowing, but it doesn't move the stones. Nerdfighteria will be here when you're ready, because we're here.
because we're here because we're here.
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This is absolutely beautiful
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This comment said what I was coming to the comments to say but much more elegantly
John just delivered a concise and damning indictment of depression and meaninglessness before the world, **while suffering through part of his brain feeding him the very same lies from depression.**
That’s so fucking metal.
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Yes! I’ve had depression since being a pre-teen, but didn’t recognize it until I was NINETEEN. 🎓
Found out it was intertwined with anxiety over the next 5 yrs. Started college again and studied from then, on thru the pandemic and then 2 yrs. more. 📖
Now I’m taking a break due to a CVST (stroke) 🧠💥at age 27. ❤🩹Today is one yr. later and I’ll be turning 29 next month. 💖Even though I am much improved, there’s still more 💚growing to do.
💛To John (& Hank), I’ve had your videos and books as part of my support system over the last dozen years, and I encourage you 🙏 to take all the time you need, and give yourself the same comfort 🛌that I found from you in my past struggles and continuing growth.🪴🫶🌅
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Fill your bucket with clean water and drink long and deep, John. 17 years is a long time in a career, and an ETERNITY for the internet. Your work has brought public awareness to how pervasive, yet treatable TB is in underdeveloped/underserved parts of the world, and so many of us connect deeply with your books. Your candor is refreshing and POSITIVE. I have no doubt that Nerdfighteria will be holding you up and ready to support you no matter what you end up doing.
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Yes this is true
Nerdfighteria is valuable
This was so encouraging and inspiring! Thank you for sharing and being brave enough to do this! I think you will never know all the people you’ve helped. I look forward to visiting with you soon!
There is a hospital in the world because of John.
No matter what depress says; there is one more hospital in the world.
I can't tell you how many times I've told people the good news from Vlogbrothers
- Infant mortality has declined over time.
- Many people are banding together to cure the world's most deadly disease even though it mostly impacts poor people.
- Companies cab be wildly successful even if they are non profit.
- Treating people with compassion can be a road to success
- It's OK to be silly while doing important work.
And some of these things sometimes absolutely change a person's world-view. News and social media absolutely want us to believe that the world only gets worse, and the only thing we can do about it is come back later and get shocked about it again. It's so important to have the reality of good news and community have real voices.
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As an occupant of a world that almost lost Hank Green, I can verify that the world also desperately needs John Green.
So I implore you to take whatever steps you deem necessary to preserve John Green.
We'll be here when you get back.
An excellent way to put it.
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The Green brothers need to stick around for the inevitable Nobel Peace Prize they will be awarded.
Oh god I don't need to cry right now
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“No simple story can ever be true, and there is no simpler story than ‘nothing means anything.’” 🔥
John,
you aren't dumping a bucket of clean water into the toxic lake, you are saving star fish. The number of sea stars that wash ashore may look insurmountable but tossing even one back into the ocean is still saving a life, it matters to that one
i hope your break lets you refresh and come back twice as strong, we will all be waiting for you
sincerely,
one little sea star
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I second this as another fellow sea star ❤
If I could like this comment a million times I would
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That's so sweet ❤
Here is what I'll say: I didn't get out my depression only because of Vlogbrothers, but your work in particular, John, kept me afloat while I did the extremely difficult work you're doing now and that you've done before. You will make it through this, and I hope come back to us, but if you aren't able to, we will support and love you from afar in whatever ways feel good for you. I'm so so so thankful for the Green brothers, and glad that you're setting a good example for me and all the other mentally ill mofos out there. Take care of yourself above the world.
Thank you for this message! ❤
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My thoughts exactly!
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"Hope sings the tune without words, and never stops...at all"
I want to scream this at my brain too, John.
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snaps for Emily Dickinson
I feel like sometimes it stops though. And those are the times we really need to do the most self care.
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I am so grateful anytime someone I admire speaks openly about their mental health struggles. Like so much of John's work, it makes me feel less alone. You are helping others, lighting a path, even by taking a break and prioritizing your mental health. I am equally moved by the compassion and wisdom in the comments. Vlogbrothers raised nerdfighteria right.
You probably won't see this since it's been a while, but I just want to say that your portrayal of Lizzie Bennet has helped me through a lot of difficult times and I'm really grateful for it.
“Even despair eventually exhausts itself” You won’t feel this way forever and when you are ready, we will still be here, ready.
I wish I could frame this comment. Thank you for saying this.
well put!
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That's a phrase I should get embroidered on a throw pillow
One thing that helps many of my clients is the mantra “You’ve survived 100% of your bad days.”
Please take care, we are rooting for you
Some of them only just...
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@@dustinandrews89019 A win is a win. If anything I see it as proof of strength, days so bad you're truly on the brink, but you _still_ made it through them. Means, whatever the reason was, they couldn't beat you.
John, the Anthropocene Reviewed saved my life last year. My two children would thank you if they were old enough to know what was really going on with Mommy. Hearing your voice speak the truths of Sycamore trees, truths that live inside my skull, will continue to be a lifeline for me while I forever feel trapped in the game my mind plays. It tethers me to those small hands in mine and reminds me what the point is. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Those two words will never be enough.
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Anyone else feel like we were on the beach of that toxic lake and John gave the buckets of water directly to us? Also sandwiches and sunscreen?
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Definitely
True. Both Hank and John are like a deposit of clean water in the sewer that is social media
Absolutely, I think there are a lot of people on the Internet (myself included) that are just looking for that nice, cold glass of water amidst this toxic lake. John and Hank have given me enough of those glasses of water over the year to fill a swimming pool.
Classic John, making me cry at 10am on a Tuesday through sheer earnestness and belief in hope even in the face of hopelessness and despair. Hope isn't a lie; it is a practical tool that we need to get through life. John, your work has helped me be less despairing, and I hope you benefit from a well-deserved break from the Internet. We'll be here when you get back.
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John, I’m not the one to usually comment in videos, but I just wanted you to know that the world is definitely better with you (and all the thing you do) in it! Take as much time as you need! Sending you lots of love from Brazil! 💚💛
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"No simple story is true, and there is no simpler story than 'nothing means anything'", I really love that
I had to replay that part, it's so meaningful to me
All these decades since I've graduated high school and I finally have words to explain why even then I knew that the nihilists who thought they were deep were really just intellectually lazy
I love you, John. In a non-parasocial way, in the way I love the books that changed my life. You have changed my way of thinking, my outlook on people, and helped me balance my own personal emotional ecosystem. I've been watching vlogbrothers since middle school, and your voices have been a constant reminder of what is important. The water is not poisonous, it never has been. I hope your rest helps you, I hope it is truly rest. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
This is a great reminder that being successful does not magically make your mental health issues go away. Sometimes I tell myself, "Once I reach this one goal, I'll finally be okay." The goalposts just keep moving, though. I'm sure if you told an 18-year-old John Green that he would one day have a successful writing career with one of the best selling books of all time, movies made from his books, a beautiful family, and a long history of incredible charity work, he'd be like, "Wait? What?? That's amazing! Surely that means I'm happy and everything is great." But... the goalposts just keep moving, and they always will. I gotta remind myself that no achievement is suddenly going to turn me into a happy person because life doesn't work that way.
This is very true. Often times the more you want something and the more you fantasize about it the less meaningful it is when you finally get it. Humans are unfortunately hardwired to never really have "enough" and to overemphasize "this is what I wish I had" rather than being content with what they do have or seeing the positives. We're all like this to some extent (negativity bias is very real) but this is amplified by an order of magnitude with depression.
John, I know your brain won't let you hear it, but I still have to emphasize that in the last 2 years, you and Hank did more good for this world than ever before.
- You brought TB to the forefront of so many of us that had no idea it even still existed
- You helped raise millions of dollars to improve the lives of people in Sierra Leone, and don't even think that the lives already saved aren't at least partially your doing, because they are! People who were doomed to die are alive because of you!
And no, stop thinking "that was all Hank", because it wasn't!
You are a serious force for good in this world and if we had more people like you and Hank, we would live in a better world. I hope you can recover quickly!
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part of DFTBA is remembering to love yourself. take your time; we'll be here if/when you decide to return
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DFTB Love Yourself
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+ my favorite thing that DFTBA stands for is Dont Forget To Breathe Amigo, sometimes we just need to take time and space to ourselves to breathe. Sometimes we need time to ourselves, breaks to prevent burnout and all that. DFTBA means a lot of things but to me it first and foremost means don't forget to take care of yourself as you have to take care of yourself to be awesome and care for others
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I’ve been watching from the shadows all these years. You make me proud to be a human. You give me hope for the future.
So many hugs, John. I’ll be watching still. All respect. ❤
John, you probably won't see this, but earlier this month I picked up *The Anthropocene Reviewed* while flying home from a work trip. The other thing I picked up on that trip was COVID, which made me quarantine for 10 days in an Airbnb away from my 5-month old baby and my partner who had, while i was out of commission, surgery to remove cancer. I didn't have energy to do much while I was sick, but in the few hours a day that I was awake, I read your book. Its relentless hopefulness helped me make it through the worst two weeks of my life so far. Take care of yourself, take the time you need, and thank you.
Thx for your great comment & best wishes to your entire family! 💛
Wishing you and yours all the happiness you deserve, friend 💜
Best wishes to you and your family ❤
Wow
John, I just got diagnosed with OCD and wanted to share my deepest thanks for taking on the cost of sharing pieces of yourself to help others like me. Sending you love with a new level of empathy and also tremendous pride in you for taking this time away.
Sending you love and support from another person with OCD. (((((HUGS)))))
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The poem about the candle burning at both ends is very pretty and we really do love the light, but we also care about the candle. Thank you for taking the time you need.
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The honesty you share in the midst of so much pain is healing. I hope taking space brings some peace and wellness your way.
Thank you John, for sharing your struggles. Don’t feel bad for taking a break. You deserve it.
In the words of John’s therapist “Everything will end, including this.” That little line from a Vlogbrothers video has stuck with me. Sometimes I say it out loud, sometimes just in my head. But even went I say it with sarcastic intent after a moment I start to feel the reassurance. I hope this month away is good to you John ♥️
We won't always feel this way!!!
I'm a crash course kid. I was homeschooled in high-school and crash course opened up learning pathways to me that still inspire me to this day. I've just graduated from my second masters degree. I will always be indebted to the acts of good you've put into the world and I hope my story can lighten a bit of the load you carry.
Take the time you need. We love you and want a happy, healthy John 😊
John- your contributions to the unsavory waters are like messages in bottles. You are under no obligation to continue writing & sending them forth, but please know that they are so much more than the mere volume they occupy. Your messages are thoughtful and inspiring, and I would wager a guess that they drive others to think and inspire as well. (I know this has been true for me.) Please prioritize the healing of your soul; you deserve happiness and fulfillment. That is all.
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Beautifully said! +
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Wow, fantastically said. +1000
Depression says what it will, and so will I: You matter to me. I am grateful to live in a world with you and your work. Your books, the pod, brotherhood 2.0, and the vlog as it stands today have all been great companions to me for the last 17 years. You have cracked me open and held me together when I needed it, and offered me comfort and joy in days of fairweather. Thank you. Thank you.
Good luck in July. I hope things improve. We'll be in your corner no matter what.
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A whole month? For yourself? Hell yeah, John! Way to go! Take care of yourself, ok? You deserve love, even (and especially) from yourself. I'm so glad to hear you're taking care of yourself ❤
Thank you for all the clean water you’ve given me. And good for you for saying “no thanks”. That in of itself is inspiring.
"Despair is a lie" and "Hopelessness is a lie" are probably the four most important words I've heard recently, especially for my own life. What a simple message, yet incredibly profound
In the spirit in which vlogbrothers has been delivered over the past 17 years, where sometimes John and Hank don't know if the work was worth it, it has ALWAYS been worth it. And this video may have been the most effective one of all.
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Thank you for taking care of yourself, John! We love you!
Thanks so much for sharing this. I am so grateful for all the stuff you've put into the world.
To say it back:
"Hope sings the tune without the words and never stops at all."
I (and I'm sure many others) will be praying for you and will be happy to see you whenever you're back.
Spreading a message of hope while you're in the well is selfless on a truly unbelievable level. Take all the time you need, John, You are very, very loved.
Literally making me cry listening to him say what he needs to hear himself. We love you John please hang in there
As someone who has also struggled with depression, I know you won't internalize this yet, but you and Hank have had an immense impact on me and my world view. A commitment to giving back, to using your voice and privilege for good, to reject the "fundamental" forces of exploitative capitalism instead for community and compassion, all while being silly and nerdy. Take all the time you need and then some, we love you and will be here when you get back ❤ DFTBA
Oh, John. We love you. You have no idea how many lives you have affected in a positive, helpful, honest way, not only with your wonderful work but also with your willingness to be honest about your mental health and the way your brain lies to you. ❤️💔
John, the things you make are not buckets of clean water in a toxic lake. They are a filter which cleans the polluted air that passes through it and makes it a little bit easier to breathe. Take as long and as frequent breaks as you need to and know we are grateful for you.
Yeah, the thing about Vlogbrothers videos is, when I feel stuck on an issue that's in the news or whatever, and I don't know what to think because it's complicated, and I don't know how to resolve this apparently black-and-white figure-ground binary perspective .... usually, the next Tuesday, John has a video that gives me a better way to think about it, that incorporates both sides, and all the complexity, into a perspective that makes it possible to move forward. And then I'm able to take that perspective, and apply it to other things, and de-toxify lots of parts of my life because of that 4 minutes with John.
As a kind professor said to me when I was going through an objectively tough time… “I can’t fix things for you but i wish that I could and if I had a magic wand, I would.”
Despair is like water. Some days it laps at your heels and other days, you wade through it at waist height. You go about your day but now you notice when it’s rising. Rising until you get used to keeping your chin up to stop yourself from drowning. I’ve been at the bottom of that ocean too. Take your time John and build your life raft. The tides will change again and there’s calm on the horizon.
All tides change!!!!
1000%. Well said.
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I think John is setting a great example of what self care during depression can look like. It’s valuable for us younger nerdfighters to see that.
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Also there are inevitably going to be ups and downs over a lifetime and Vlogbrothers has been going strong for 17 years. If John or Hank (or both) needs to take a month, or two or three or 12 off for their own health then that's okay. All the nerdfighters that matter would rather have a mentally healthy John than force him to destroy his own happiness for us.
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Also for us older nerd fighters.
We oldsters need it too.
We often say "take care" as another way to say goodbye. But, especially now, John, please take care (with you and for you).
This reminds me of “The Seduction of Despair” from John Green. I often watch it when I am feeling depressed. Thank you for sharing and using your platform for all you do. I understand needing a break. We’ll be here when you get back. You’re not alone in what you’re feeling and I hope it gets better.
I know this won't magically make the depression any quieter, but your talking about OCD has absolutely been life-changing for those of us also struggling with OCD. I started getting help through NOCD because of a UA-cam ad I saw for them, and ERP therapy has absolutely changed my life. I hope the next month helps you find what you need 💖
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OCD Nerdfighters unite!
Dyslexic nerdfighters with OCD untie! 🍀✊💜
John, we are all joined this community because of you and your brother. We keep coming back because you made that mean something more. Little ideas like setting up a store to help your fans monetize their art turn into great big things like helping a coffee grower in South America have more direct control over their livelihood and then using the money from that to help the sick in Africa. You have done great big things and I am happy to play my little part in them.
Take your time, we will be here.
"No simple story can ever be true, and there's no simpler story than 'nothing means anything.'" Always appreciate your wisdom and thoughtfulness, sending well wishes and hope you feel better soon 💖💖💖
See you soon, John. Thanks a lot for all your buckets of clean water.
Take care.
Thank you, as ever, for modeling healthy responses to mental unhealth by acknowledging the hard challenges and nevertheless seeking hope in pursuit of the complex story that depression refuses to tell. Your light-soaked days are coming. 💜
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❤ John, please allow yourself to wholeheartedly drop EVERYTHING but your selfcare for a while. Screw Twitter. Limit your news intake. You are a trying to eradicate TB, that is enough contribution for one lifetime. You are a sensitive person and you need to honor that, not change it. Your work changes lives for the better, that's simply a fact.
John - take it from me, a random guy in his 30s in Phoenix who’s been following you and Hank for a decade now - your books and everything else you do are the farthest thing from worthless I can imagine. You’ve made an incredible impact on my life and I know a much bigger one on countless others. Wishing you the best.
Take all the time you need. You matter and your health matters. We’ll be here if you need us. You’ve given us so much, both throughout your career and recently. You’ve made my life so much better and changed my outlook on humanity.
Thank you for taking a break John. Thank you. Clean your own lake, love your family, love every part of being alive. Plant some peas in your garden. I think of the peas in your garden so often.
We're here. We're going to stick around.
You mean so much to use all. Enjoy July and sing that tune. We will be here in August.
Exactly. I'm not crying, you're crying. No, actually, I am crying, and that's okay too.
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YES! Thank you so much, John, for taking care of yourself and for being honest about your needs. I actually think that videos like this one are one of the most important things you do for this community and for the world. Lately at my office job, when I have needed to take a day off for mental health reasons, I've been making a point to phrase it that way, saying to my team "I need a mental health day today" as opposed saying that I'm sick. I'm doing this because it is CRUCIAL that we eliminate stigma around mental health needs, and using our example to change norms is one of the best ways we can do that. Your openness about your mental health over the years is one of the things that helped me feel comfortable doing this. To see you now say "I need a mental health month" on a public platform with such honesty and care - it's very powerful, John. I hope that taking this break helps you, but regardless of what it does for you, it has already helped me and many others more than you know.
John, from a random person in Ukraine who struggles with depression and anxiety for the last 8 years - I love you. You and Hank are two people who inspire me the most and support me in my darkest times. Please rest as long as you need to feel better! You matter, and everything you do makes a world a better place! ❤❤❤
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God bless you and my thoughts go to you, thank you also for your kind words here 💙
Hope things get better for you too Avelkm!
Stay safe and courage for your bad days!
John ~ the wisdom, joy, humor,sanity, and humanity that you have shared with so many allows us all to carry all those things for you and return them to you multiplied, when you are ready and able to wrap them around you once more. May peace clothe you and love buoy you. Thank you so much!
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John, you amaze me with your ability to be inspiring even when you’ve just shared how much despair you’re feeling. I hope your month away from the internet helps you feel happier. Take care of yourself in whatever way you need to. ❤
YEAH❤JOHN!
GIVE yourself Everything we would give you if we could 🙏
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Bruh. "It feels like all the nerves are on the outside of my body." This is a mood.
It really is
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"it feels like all of my nerves are on the outside of my body" is such a great way of putting words to something i have felt so often i am so gratefull for this phrase. I hope the break helps you John, you have helped me in your announcement of it.
I was so glad when I realized this video title was genuinely what it was. For a while because of the things you've mentioned I've thought, "man John needs to take a break" and I'm so glad you are! I'm a kind of a Christian fellow and apparently you are too, so lean heavily into the grace & peace of the Lord and DFTBA!
Best. Comments. Section. Ever.
Much love, John. Theres not a thing that I want to say that hasn't already said by multiple people in this comment thread, and that's a gorgous testament to you what you do.
⬆️THIS ⬆️
Truth! Like attracts like, and they've brought together such an amazing community. 💜🍀
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being able to acknowledge the irrationality of depression while still being depressed is so real. I’ve always been acutely aware of when I’m depressed and yet I still fall into the same traps. the one silver lining is knowing that I’ve survived it once and *will* survive it again. and again. and again. I’m so sorry that you’re at the bottom of the well, john. it sucks, but hopefully this time off will give you the proverbial rope ladder to get out of the well.
thank you for your openness and the helpful reminders.
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Hey, I’m proud of you for taking a break, that’s objectively the correct choice to take care of yourself.
You and Hank are a small beacon of light in an endless pit of human awfulness. Take as long as you need but then come back because when i myself feel like im drowning i can watch vlogbrothers and feel a bit better ❤️
"Everything great feels illusory and everything terrible feels utterly true."
John has a way of articulating things that always hits me right where I'm at.
Love you John. Take your time. Find your peace. Come back whenever you feel, or enjoy your peace.
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Thank you for your wisdom, your kindness, your generosity of spirit, and your Johnness. Thank you for teaching me we’re here because we’re here because we’re here because we’re here. I am so proud of your bravery in filming and posting this video. ❤
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We’re here because we’re here! We’re here because we’re here! We’re here because we’re here!
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This brought tears to my eyes. Thank you stranger
Everything you've done has helped so many. Especially me for the last 15 years. Your quote is on my office wall, "we got there the only way you get anywhere good: together" ❤ thank you, John, sending you all the best!
Hooray for boundaries!!! We're all proud of you. You and your brother taught me how to be the kind of person I want to be, and so much of what I am have become and accomplished is because of you. And there are thousands, hundreds of thousands of us.
My now wife shared one of your older videos that can apply to depression when is tarted struggling with it too. The video is titled It's What You Make Of It: Thoughts From Venice.
I go back and watch that from time to time, just to find myself that things can be better
Follow the bubbles. When you feel like you are drowning at the bottom, the bubbles will lead to the surface.
Take care of yourself and others as you are able.
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That's beautiful! I've always loved bubbles! Thank you for the imagery of hope! 🔮🧼🍀
Get well soon John. You and your brother are a light in the darkness for me quite often. I hope you find your way to the top of the well in time. That first breath above water will feel glorious.
"Hope sings the tune" is something I try to remind myself whenever my depression kicks up. Depression as a concept can't exist if all hope is truly gone from a person. I love who you are, John, and looking forward to your return.
I'm sure I'm not alone in being moved to tears by this video, but I want to say the idea that "depression as a concept can't exist if all hope is truly gone from a person" made me cry too (in a good way). I just started crying again typing them out. Thank you
Take all the time you need John! And your content is definitely helping people... I just wrote my final essay in social justice (grade 12) on partners in health and their contributions to bettering maternal healthcare in Sierra Leone and now my teacher knows about it and it's awesome!!!
John, you are so important to so many of us. You are part of the solution that saved my life. When the voices of depression and anxiety make it hard for me to sleep, I listen to The Anthropocene Reviewed and feel less alone.
You are loved. Those of us who pray keep you and your family in our prayers, and those of us who don’t send you vibes of strength and hope. We’ll be here, so you do what you need to do.
Thank you John for all the ways you improved my life! I'm glad & proud of you for taking care of yourself by taking a break!
Being public about taking time off is a favor to us all. John, I wish you well and hope you'll see your spark again soon.
"Despair is a lie." this is the truth. You and your contributions are so so valuable and so needed in the world. Good luck while you're offline in finding your way out of the pit!
It’s okay to not be okay, John. Big hugs ❤️
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You are cared for so deeply, John. Have a restful July.
Thanks for the brutal openness, we the audience arn't entitled to it, but we appreciate it so much.
There is really nothing more to say than we understand and wish you feel better, regardless of how much or little that means we get to see of you.
DTFBA
I would just like to say that this community that Hank and John have created is actually one of the few places in social media that displays what we should all be striving for daily. Read the comments. They're beautiful, heartfelt, and true. This is what can be accomplished when we push ugliness aside and focus on what matters. If you need some examples of the bright side of life and humanity this is the place to go. 💜💚💙
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Truth! I never cease to be amazed at how many genuine, articulate, compassionate, yet real people there are here in the comments. So much heart. Along with everything else John and Hank have done, they've fostered this incredible community. 💜🍀
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Your stuff helps me, John. It has been helping since I started watching you guys in 2009. If you ever need to take time off, then I support you and want to see you taking care of yourself and your family. But you should never doubt your positive impact on the world and the millions of people who watch your videos and receive knowledge and positivity. This channel has been a constant and felt like a home to me the last 15 years. I love you guys!
Love you, John. You've helped me see the world in a more complex way, which has helped me to fight the lies my own brain tells me.
Your buckets of clean water have kept me afloat, John. You and your work mean so much to so many people. I hope your break helps you in all the ways you need. The world is much less sucky because of you and your voice every day.
This is a super important video John. Normalising depression by putting yourself in a vulnerable position is a great example of what makes vlogbrothers so impactful. Small or big you make a difference to real people.
Turn your face towards the sun; your shadows will fall behind you. I hope your July is filled with non-digital excitement and renewal ❤
Take the time you need John. And i know the words of a stranger on the internet won't triumph over your brain's (wrong) counsel, but I mean it from the bottom of my heart when I say it that the work you do matters, that the stuff you make changes lives and your being here is a blessing to us all.
Thank you John for everything! Your work and everything you bring has been bringing light to my life for well over a decade now. I hope your time away is restorative and healing 💗 sending you so much love!