It's okay the like button appreciates it anyways they were going to have the house painted with new truck bed liner epoxy and they're having a Tesla solar roof put on so thanks for doing the like button to favor you're the best...
It’s not a joke. It’s a requirement as a content creator on UA-cam. For every single picture, he captions it either “REAL photo of…” or “NOT real photo of…” because he’s making it clear to the audience which photos he is claiming as actual photos of the story he’s telling and which ones he’s using for illustration purposes. You can get into trouble on UA-cam for not marking what is not a real photo of something.
Mr. Ballen I've been in recovery for 11 year's and you coming out saying that you have a problem and on here for your fan's was heart warming and made us feel special
Crazy how I’ve watched for years and would’ve never guessed, but everyone around me could say the same which is the sad part. A lot of this shit goes unmentioned and hidden addiction is insidious
MrBallen, I have been sober since 1981. It’s not always been easy but it has been well worth it and I feel much better since then. I just avoid being around people who are drinking so that I will not be tempted ever. Working your program is essential too.
I feel so horrible for Xu, she was in a horrible situation before she met a serial killer and then was blackmailed into murdering people for him which led to her own death. Failed marriage, kidnap victim, surrvivor, murderer, incarcerated, dead. Such a horrible story.
I wouldn't call that a blackmail .. she was fully aware of what she is doing and had plenty of time to go to the police but she didn't .. she is as horrible person as Jia and the others , fix ur marriage don't think life is easy mode cose some handsome man offered u a tissue .
@@sandmandzkhalil3618How do you know she could have gone to the police? I’d think the serial killer would’ve been watching her. She probably felt terrified and powerless. It’s not like she decided out of nowhere to start killing people. She did what she felt she had to do to save her own life.
@@sandmandzkhalil3618 Xi Lixia was assaulted and strangled by Jia before being thrown into the pit, he had thought she was dead. When pulled out Jia threatened to kill her son and family if she didn't do what he told her to. She even tried running away once and was caught and severely beaten. He eventually forced her to make that video of her stabbing the business man (who was dead already) so that he had even more of a hold over her. Ultimately she deserved the death penalty for what she did, "I was just following orders" didn't work at the Nuremberg Trials and it didn't work for her.
My little brother passed away recently from alcoholism. he absolutely loved your videos. He first showed them to me a few years ago and ever since we always watched them together. Been a few months now since he passed and I couldn’t bring myself to watch the videos without him. This is the first one I’ve watched since than and it’s a bit comforting hearing a familiar voice. Thanks for all your videos and doing what you do!
Oh dude, I am so sorry 😞 Welcome back.. I'm certain your brother will be lurking here in the comments with you! I've lost too many loved ones to alcohol and it's heartbreaking, I'm sorry for your pain. Take comfort in the fact he is no longer being tortured and his soul is now at ease. I hope watching Mr Ballen for the first time again bought you some happy memories ❤
Congrats on the 3 weeks of sobriety, dude. That's a huge deal! And thank you for using your platform to inspire others struggling with addiction to take the first steps in seeking help too.
I use to be a heroin addict and i finally went and asked for help and have been clean and sober for 6 years 3 months 4 days. I now have a good job and have repaired my broken relationships. I'm proud of you for being able to say you had a problem and getting help with it. God is with you and will heal you mr ballin.
Right? Mr.Ballen's podcast has become my go-to lullaby; everyday I listen to his voice to fall asleep, and it helps so much! Of course, I end up missing 90% of each story, so during the day I go back and listen to the complete podcast episode, lol.
Agreed. This man definitely has a lot of talent. Nobody comes close to him when it comes to stories in this genre. He makes you feel like you are there reliving the story.
I got too distracted by his better health promo luckily he easily got me back on track. I’m so glad I’m not in crime investigation idk if I could handle seeing that.
@@felicityb4949 2 of the chemicals released when a body decompose are aptly called putrescene and cadaverine. Yeah you can guess what they smell like. When word sound like they smell you know they're bad
But I don't have a serial killer mind, I thought they would try to blackmail the corporate married men, like have a naked girl photos...but nothing to do with money huh? Just the thrill of killing?
If you've never smelled a rotting body, the smell is unforgettable. Even objects will absorb the smell and there is no guarantee the smell will go away. It is Foul!🤢
My hypothesis on why she killed the guys instead of fleeing: He was probably watching her get the first guy and he filmed her killing him, all things she did to avoid being put back down in the pit of dead bodies. Then he had blackmail of her murdering the dude so she kept doing it. He probably convinced her no one would believe her over him.
@@moodycrab77 Do you think that her culture had a lot to do with her continuing to listen and do what this guy said? I'm wondering if the same thing would have happened in a different country like here in Canada or the states. And yes I do agree that Stockholm Syndrome is a real thing but Sue by the sounds of it wasn't very long before she was killing people, and anyone else in that short of time I believe would have run to the cops
I just *knew* there'd be people in the comments making excuses for her and sympathizing with a person who killed at least a dozen men who were all loved by people. But everyone's so gullible, flaunting their fake compassion until the moment they, themselves, actually encounter malevolence or are revealed as malevolent.
Congratulations on your sobriety! As a military spouse I feel so many servicemen and women end up with a very unhealthy relationship with alcohol and I’m so glad you’re working with your therapist to kick that vicious cycle!! ❤
It’s a big problem with vets, even worse if they have PTSD. I met a guy who said he’d drink an entire glass of bourbon (not a whiskey glass, a water glass) before going to bed. I wish we would take better care of our veterans!
alcohol outright destroyed my life, and permanently damaged my stomach and liver, as well as left me with more mental issues than i had before i picked up alcohol at age 13. im over 5.5 years sober now, but its brutal imagining what my life would be like if i never picked up the bottle at all. alcohol casually being legal and usually talked about lightly when its in the top 5 most addictive and destructive drugs we have, and one of only 3 families of drugs that can kill you for quitting. i hate how its such a common and widely accepted thing.
That's awesome news. I have 14yrs of sobriety and there is no way I could do it by myself. Counciling and having access to a sponsor is what saved my life and held me to flourish in my sobriety. It's more than just quitting the drink, it's about people places and thing that will set you off and how you should handle every situation you might experience. One thing i was told that will always stay with me is, while you're in here, learning who you are and how to live, your addiction is in the parking lot doing push ups waiting for you the second you step out the door. So he said you'd better be making the same commitment to sobriety as your addiction is to getting you back. I'm proud of you man , one day at a time and never be ashamed to ask fpr more help if you need it. There are many of us that go far beyond just help not using, it's about changing your life for the better and doing without any substance needed.. God speed my friend..
@TheBestZach1 excuse me, but who do you think you are. I'm reaching out to someone in need and need and because it's not your way, it's not the tight way.. look man, I'm about helping people and lifting them up. I don't need to read your complaints on how I tell my story and the way I offer help. Please stop putting people down and if ypu don't have anything good to say, just keep it to yourself. You'll live longer and have a much better attitude and life. God bless you..
@@stevenfryer7660 if you hit the little comment button below someone else’s comment it automatically puts their tag in your comment and I was just tryna lighten the mood ya feel like this is and amazing accomplishment for him and it’s cool God gave us this opportunity to congratulate that but I just wanted to put laughing emojis in this comment section and have some fun fr 😁
When you discussed your struggles with alcohol that helped my husband so much, he’s been struggling with it due to the fact that he gets severe panic attacks out of nowhere. In fact he’s I the middle of detoxing right now. I’m very proud of him. Thank you so much for sharing that. You seem like such a genuine person we love your videos.
@@MrBallenmrballen betterhelp is a scam. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has announced a proposed action against the online therapy service BetterHelp, Inc. for mishandling consumers' private health information, particularly regarding mental health issues, and using it for advertisement purposes. Pls look into this
I got out of the Marines in 2010. What followed was a debilitating takeover of my body mind and soul. I got into recovery and I worked the steps and AA program with a sponsor and finally got sober in 2014 and haven't had a single sip of alcohol since. Alcohol is a highly addictive substance that no one really talks about it as it's woven so deeply into the fabric of our society in every way. Thank you for sharing experience and remember you dont have to do it alone.
I understand. I don’t know many that don’t struggle after returning to civilian life. I know it’s rough. I’m glad you took the steps needed to lead a fulfilling life again. If it weren’t for my family I’d be dead.
this really needs nuanceing. there is no need to throw out the baby with the bathwater. It really is a matter of self control and attached to that mental or psychological issues. some people are more prone to addiction than others. this can have many causes. often trauma or depression and sometimes genetically. The overwhelming majority of people are perfectly able to deal with alcohol. There is nothing wrong with having a glass of wine with a nice dinner or to enjoy an icecold beer during a BBQ on a nice warm summersday. I myself are very afraid of alcohol. i have an aunt who is a hardened alcoholic and it is awful to see her glide down a very slippery slope. But im perfectly fine with a glass of white wine at a dinner party. Some people lack self control (for whatever understandable or ununderstandable reason) but if alcohol wouldnt exist they would most definitely resort to other things to abuse. Sex or food is also something that can be highly addictive. that doesnt mean that sex or food is a blight on society or should be outlawed.
Thank you for sharing your struggles with alcoholism. Trying to get my dad help, he is in the same scenario you described. Thank you for raising awareness 🙏🏼
John, im a recovering addict myself! I am almost to 4 years clean from drugs! I got sepsis in 2020. Coulsnt walk bc of it. I lived in a recliner for 3 weeks where i "slept" and urinated (ik gross but thats how bad it was). I didnt shower for 4 weeks bc of the pain. I just sat in that chair and rotted away. Finally got diagnosed correctly and stayed in the hospital for 2 months and had to learn to walk again. It was one of the most traumatic experiences of my life and it was caused by drug use. Been clean since! With a lot of intense therapy, self love and hard work, i am the happiest i have ever been! ❤ we appreciate your being open and sharing that. You have a lot of followers that can relate
Wow!! U really experienced hell on earth! So glad to hear u overcame your addiction & are happy! U have a powerful story keep sharing it might help someone!
Man this makes me so frickin happy! As a recovering addict myself (8 years 🎉) my heart bleeds for any fellow addict, when i see comments like yours, it brings me genuine joy to hear of others doing so well. I'm proud of you baby turkey! Keep being the coolest cleanest turkey there is ❤
Sober 24 years this August. I could not keep my word to myself when it pertained to booze, too. It was ugly. I had no peace, only isolation and secret drinking. You got this! Your life will be better. Your family will be better. You will be available to your own children when they start experimenting. Much love and respect.
Congrats! I have 5 months yesterday. 18 years of being stuck in an endless loop of heroin addiction and this is the longest period of sobriety I’ve ever had. It’s cliche but true, if I can do it then literally anyone can do it. I was a straight up scumbag doing some of the scummiest things to loved ones, friends, exs, and innocent strangers. I’m not proud of the chaos and pain I cause in others lives, but all I can do is learn from it and never make those mistakes again. It’s def worth it and everything you said will get better has. If you truly put in the work and want to change the world things will def get better in EVERY aspect of life. 24 years is amazing, keep it up!
Your laughter in the bloopers is very infectious. 😅 That was a horrifying story. But it would make a very good film thriller. I was a ‘two bottles of wine a night’ drinker. Then, in 2007, I gave it up over night. I went from being someone who panicked if I couldn’t get to the off-license before it closed, to only having a couple of spritzers on special occasions. Sobriety is awesome and I would highly recommend it to anyone. The novelty never wears off. Well done, Mr Ballen. You can do it!!!!! 👍😃🇺🇸🇬🇧
Good for you ! Keep it up my friend . In the end drink/drugs just make your problems worse , they never help . Believe me , I know sweetheart Best of luck x
@MrBallen, I'm so proud of you. My daughter got clean and sober on 9/15/2020. Others in the family said she would do it again and would hold it against her. Just remember what I told her. Your life is like a book. I asked her if this was going to be her paragraph, chapter, or book and that no one could write her book. They can comment about it, but in the end it is her book, her story. And her story has helped others along the way. Keep writing your story. We are cheering for you.
When you shared your struggles with alcohol that really spoke to me- I've been a bad alcoholic since i was 16 (I'm 33 now) and I'm 1 year and 3 months sober 😀 Congratulations on your sobriety! You'll feel so much better for it!
I've been a long time follower of yours. I too struggled with alcohol. I'm an 8 year Army vet, hit absolute rock bottom by the end of 2022. I ended up hospitalized, spent a week in a VA mental health ward followed by 60 days in a VA domiciliary. It was just dry time. Two weeks later I went to an inpatient program in Houston for 7 months at the PTSD Foundation of America's Camp Hope. It changed my life and my mental health was the full reason behind my substance abuse. The moral of this comment is I know your struggle. I hit 15 months sober a couple weeks ago with zero desire to drink. It's a beautiful feeling and it gets easier as time goes on. Keep up the fight. It's ok to stumble as long as you keep pushing forward. Much love bro.
My brother in arms keep it up. One day at a time! Former USMC. I go to veterans hospital in Houston. Start reading the Bible. Start in the gospel of John. This book is about the love of Jesus Christ, for you. Pray daily, find a spirit filled church. Camp Hope is a fantastic organization! Live daily, and thank God! Be at peace, God loves you big time!
Have you ever used ketamine treatment for ur PTSD I also suffer from PTSD and was just wondering if you had ever used this before, I'm sure you have heard of it
@@MissionaryForMexico Absolutely brother. God, prayer, and the spiritual community are the biggest reasons I'm where I'm at in life. I appreciate your comment and much love.
Thanks for your honesty, it takes a real man to admit a weakness, confront it, then make himself vulnerable sharing his story because he has compassion for others.
I'm so surprised there isn't a flood of comments about betterhelp being a scam. Seen it on 3 other channels, recently. People forget so quickly... It makes me start doubting mr ballen's story about drinking.
@@MultiChrisjbThanks for your input, I'm doing research on it for myself now. Update - After digging around for info it seems that the organisation isn't technically a scam but it is quite dodgy. The stories from people who worked there are enough to convince me they are lacking integrity and professionalism and are far more interested in profit than the welfare of their paying clients. I would never recommend them to anyone. Maybe they did help John and he had a good experience. That's very possible given they want him to promote their business. He may be quite sincere about his experience and as it was good decides they are worth recommending. They may have given him the red carpet/royal treatment for his endorsement. It makes sense, who can argue with someone's personal experience or convince him it's an unethical business in that case?
Thank you for opening up about your sobriety. My brother is an alcoholic and has been one for years, he recently admitted that he needs help and checked himself into a rehab. Wishing both of you the best on your journey to sobriety.
MrBallen, I got sucked into your channel with your very unique and gripping stories, but when you stopped to talk about your life and betterhelp, you actually spoke to me. Just what I needed today. Thanks bro.
Mr Ballen, you are a winner, and so are all others who are in recovery. I lost a son to alcoholism, he is still alive, but after 24 years of it, he gave up and totally broke contact. I miss him terribly.
Soooo you DIDNT lose a son. Gotcha. See and now everyone can virtue signal and make it about them to tie themselves to greatness. It doesn't take courage to sober up. Infact THEYD tell you they're at rock bottom and that's why they stopped 💯 this is the problem. White liberal moms love explaining how hard their lives are from their laps of luxury.
I was never believed by anyone, it was a military therapist that diagnosed me. Oh and once I told a WWII vet that I didn’t have real PTSD as I wasn’t a soldier and he got really upset and told me it’s the same illness regardless of how I got it. Mr Ballen has been a big help too but really all military types have helped!.
@@MiddayEnglishman Same here. Not believed. Invalidated. Those who have been through and seen the shit we have are a special type of warrior. Unfortunately, we also have an OFF button, so it’s important to stay on the beam. You are seen, believed and acknowledged here. Keep ur head up!
I gotta give Mr Ballen mad props for being open about his struggles with alcohol addiction. A lot of people suffer from this but don't talk about it. We often think of winos on the street or "losers" being alcoholics but realistically, no one is immune. It can affect the richest man just as much as the poorest. Being open is a sign to others that it is okay to talk about one's struggle with alcohol and get the help that they need. Mad props
Coming from a family that has been absolutely destroyed by alcohol and substance abuse, good for you that you are finally getting help and getting better. I know it means nothing coming from a random internet guy, but felt like i had to say this regardless. Keep being awesome.
Definitely love the bloopers! Along with the delicate nature in which you share these stories, the bloopers just add that extra bit that shows just how human you really are. People really relate more to those that provide a real palpable connection when meeting face to face isn’t an option. It’s easy to see why there are so many followers to your channels. I would definitely like to see more bloopers when you get a chance. Thank you!
I was thinking that, but I was also thinking maybe they wanted to impress him. He's probably a very suave and charming guy, along with being well dressed and handsome, they probably wanted his approval. But I could be reading into it too much, they were probably just afraid.
@@jenniferb.awesome And considering the abusive & controlling relationship she had just fled, she may have felt a bit empowered by being the one in control for a change, too. Fear, power, and approval could make a pretty scary cocktail for some people in a situation like that o.O
That's why we must NEVER forget what the millions of Jewish Children and Babies suffered during the Holocaust. They were frequently thrown alive into body pits and into cremation ovens. I can't bear to think of what a horrific death that was. The world hasn't learned. Hate still rules this world.
@@ryanneal6409 yes, once your eyes adjust to the darkness. Of course, you could also feel the bodies around your feet and know they’re dead by how cold they feel. You don’t have to rely on sight alone.
@@ultimatewitcherfan6677 yes your eyes will adjust, but thats if there is any form of light in the room. If there is no light, you're eyes will not be able to adjust enough to recognize features of an actual body
@@muneebm5247 Just search for "Jia Wenge Nehe" on google and you'll find articles about this case. You can also look for "Xu Lixia Nehe", the woman who was kidnapped.
It was from a sponsor, he had to come up with SOME story. Not saying it’s 100% false, but he had to say SOMETHING to incorporate his sponsor into the video. We just don’t know cuz again he had to come up with a story about his mental health, or how else would he have incorporated the add into the video?? 🤔
@@kayleigh3648 of course, it doesn't mean it is less impactful. but think about it this way, maybe he agreed to the sponsor *because* of his mental health and addiction history...
My husband is a veteran as well and your alcohol struggles were the same as what we went through word for word. He is now sober and a much better person and one I love being around ! ❤ It seems a lot of the veterans in this country struggle with this or similar things. Good on you for both recognizing it and loving your wife enough to do something about it
Thank you so much for being so vulnerable and transparent. I gave up alcohol completely in march of this year. It has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I also feel like it’s permanent and my decision was based on having a surprise third baby last summer. I had to make sure I had my wits about me. It’s a lot of energy and a lot of work and I would do it exactly the same way all over again if I had the chance. Thank you for being brave. I absolutely love your channel. Longtime fan.
Your bloopers were a CLASSIC pallet-cleanser after such a weird case. I also appreciate you being so open about your struggles. It makes you all the more relatable. Not everyone can do that, and I admire it. Love what you're doing, man. Keep up the good work!
Roby , I posted a question here , "Does anyone watching Mr Ballen have any comments or experience about the credibility of police in China? I would love to hear it , fellow subscribers.: I have a few suspicions.
@@alexissmith7811 her marriage has nothing to do with her job as a teacher for a school. The fact that the school didn't say anything is odd or overlooked.
Same with my dad! He got sober and stayed sober for 28 years and he went out on a fishing trip with a guys who we thought were his friends. One of the guys offered him a beer and he turned him down there different times and the guy told him that one wasn’t gonna hurt him. Well you know, once you get that taste, that’s all she wrote. My mom divorced him after a year and he drank himself to death. I hate that his life ended like that bc they (him and my mom) had so many things planned out for when they retired and here it is now that he died from a broken heart and drinking and she’s just watching the time go by like she’s ready to go to her Heavenly Home.
@Mrballen im a veteran with PTSD and when i got out i self medicated with drugs and its a struggle. I know how alcohol and veterans go hand in hand (i was never a drinker) but i commend you for being open and honest about your struggles it helps us other veterans know we are not alone in our struggles, its very hard because our pride wants us to keep this straight lace look. Its hard man but keep going im in the beginning stages myself.
It was from a sponsor, he had to come up with SOME story. Not saying it’s 100% false, but he had to say SOMETHING to incorporate his sponsor into the video. We just don’t know cuz again he had to come up with a story about his mental health, or how else would he have incorporated the add into the video?? 🤔
Thanks for sharing John! I'm an ex Marsoc Marine combat veteran, and I was a self medicating, feeling sorry for myself, mess for years! My daughters and wife deserved sooooo much better than me!! I'm proud to say, I got myself a great ptsd doc and have been sober for 6 years now. I'm 100% me again!😁
Selfmedicated aswell. Bit knew what I was doing. Meaning being sober. Only drink a little to het stuck tears out. And snoke a little weed in firework season. Little aid to get me where I want and need to be on rare occasions, but as little as possible. With time no more. Only way is to face it head on. Sometimes a tactical retreat to face it at a better time and place. Triggers will keep comming. Dealing with them will get better. Not by hiing in substances, but training and experience. I still het angru and das, but less extreme and I can manage it. First firework first new years eve sounded like shots and I dropped. Then laughed.
I've lived and travelled in China for 20 years. china is a weird place. So secured, you never hear about violent crimes. We walk around at night and not worrying about anything. However whenever you hear about violent crimes, it's way too extreme to comprehend.
Yea theres some English bloke living in China. He makes videos about Chinas crazy random killing sprees and it happens daily. The media doesnt show this and people who have these videos have to take them down. China is dangerous.
Because there isn't that much crime, I have families there and young niece and nephew, they can walk around themselves at odd hours. Its generally a safe place, due to the culture of East Asian, this is no different to Chinatown or Koreatown in the West. Its not a weird place considering the West have 500 genders and very high crime rate.
I never got to hear my mom admit she had a problem, and drinking was definitely a part of her passing on. I'm proud of you for being able to recognize you have something youre struggling with and how it affects your family. Really wishing you the best with conquering that.
Thank you for sharing your addiction to alcohol, I too have an addiction and I’ve been in therapy for years. Your story came at a time when I just told my husband this afternoon that I gambled again. I’m a first responder and I have a gambling addiction. I’m self excluded from my usual gambling casinos but over the weekend while he was away, I gambled on new online casinos. You opening up made me realize for the first time, I need to find a new therapist and I’m going to my first GA meeting on Tuesday. Thank you, for sharing you’ve truly helped me realize I need different and more help. And as always, thanks for another great story.
Meetings are the best! NA has changed my life man, coming up on 8 months of sobriety after years of rehabs and therapy. Now in the end I feel that a mix of it all set me straight and made me realize there’s nothing good in going back, but I am thankful for the strength and emotional development rehab, therapy, and meetings have all had on my addiction! Couldn’t get more than a few weeks and half the time I was in rehab so I couldn’t lol. Sad life
@@perculator999 Thank you for sharing and I’m so glad to see that they do work. I’ve been wanting to go to a meeting for a long time but, it’s I’ve been putting it off because it’s like if I do go, it’s real. If that makes any sense. I promised my husband no matter what I will go tomorrow.
@@michelechesney3599 yeah man, trust me, it makes complete sense. I denied my addiction for years, almost thinking that by admitting I had an issue. that it would give it more power. I get a bad case of the “f**k-its” and would just use “being an addict” as another bullet in my artillery of destroying myself and my relationships with drugs. But, in both A.A. AND N.A. have the same steps and principles, and the very first step is admitting you are an addict, and are powerless over your addiction. You could not manage life during addiction, and drugs/alcohol took over your life. As an addict, we want to have “power” or “control” over everything in our life. It’s hard to admit we’re powerless in the beginning, makes you feel “weak” in a way. But trust me, it’s the greatest thing I’ve ever done. Knowing there’s nothing I can do to change the past, move forward, and admit I have no control over drugs and stop beating myself up because I know I was powerless over my addiction. I am powerless for the past. I am powerless for how people act. I am powerless over LIFE, and the sad part is with or without drugs, LIFE HAPPENS, no matter what. But, we never have to use again. One day at a time, taking life on life’s terms, and knowing when we are powerless and finding the solution rather than feeling sorry for ourselves, we grow. Respond, don’t react. I’m sorry for the long message, I never do this but hearing addicts share their story and their strength is something I take very seriously and has been a big part of my life, and I don’t want to come off as preachy lol 🤣 I just hope there’s something you’d be able to gain from my experience. At the end of the day, I can only speak on what has worked for me and what I have done. Everyone’s recovery is different, so I truly hope that if I can give you even one small nugget of info that could benefit you on your road to recovery, then my missions has been accomplished. I am not saying “do as I say,” I mean it more as “this is what worked for me, and maybe something you may be able to take from my story!”
And I worded that wrong a bit on my last comment, wherever I say “you” such as when I said “you could not manage your life,” I am speaking of myself in third person! I am not saying YOU directly, I’m taking a step back and speaking to myself in a way. I should have used “I” but I was rambling lol, apologies.
@@michelechesney3599 and I truly hope the meeting went well and that you were around a good and healthy group of people in recovery. Just like anywhere, there’s always bad apples and I have heard some stories. Personally, I have never had any issues at my home group in this year and a half of going three times a week. I like to think I’ve been blessed that way, the group of people in that first meeting opened their arms and hugged me and told me to keep coming back, and they’re still by my side. NA is beautiful, having people check up on me to make sure I’m GOOD, without any intentions or attempts to gain something from me. The streets are not like that, and I have learned to drop my guard in this fellowship. NA’s goal is to spread love and show that we DO recover. I have truly found a second family in NA, I cannot speak to my “normie” family members that have never used when I want to GET HIGH. It’s taboo to them. But an experienced addict in recovery knows how you feel, they’ve lived it. I have learned and gained so much from new members in this fellowship. I wish you the best in your recovery and sorry for the slow response. Even when you feel alone, you have someone you can even just comment on a video to, I will always respond eventually. That’s what we want to show in NA to addicts, you are never alone and you are understood. There is always a meeting somewhere, and members in NA will always listen and understand and relate, on top of being able to provide advice on what worked for them and got them out of their bottoms. It could be the first time you’ve ever been in a meeting, hell you could have just walked in to the meeting 30 minutes after copping still twacked out (I know I was), and every member in that room will sit there and listen to you and shake their heads yes and relate to you, and at the end, tell you to come back tomorrow, and truly want you to better yourself, and never have intentions of gaining or using you for something. It’s truly a blessing having people who want to talk to you to check on your wellbeing, without second intentions. Peace and love, and remember, WE DO RECOVER, one day at a time. Yesterday happened already and tomorrow isn’t promised, worry about the NOW.
Thank you for sharing your struggles with alcohol. I’ve suffered from addiction since I was 16, just recently got out of treatment the beginning of the month. I overdosed 2 times in a week & almost died. I ended up in the ICU. Thank you so much for being transparent & vulnerable with your audience ♥️ we love you!
John, 16 years active from one Navy vet to another, I pray for your continued success in sobriety. I got sober seven years ago and it wasn't always easy. I was given an ultimatum by my wife to sober up or else. 7 years later I'm divorced, single dad, had lost my job for a while and almost lost the house, and there was a lot of pain spiritually and mentally. But ya boy is still sober. I got sober for her but I stayed sober for me!! You can do this brother, and not like you would ever need my help or anything, but if you ever do, sailor to sailor/sober to sober I got your six.
@@emilykapallen4979 I'm so sorry for how your dad's addiction affects your family. Please don't ever feel responsible for his addiction or for him not working on getting sober, though. Unfortunately we can't make our loved ones look for treatment if they aren't ready to do so.
I too struggle with having an addictive personality. I am currently in treatment and am 42 days sober from Fyntenol and I couldn’t be happier. Thank you for sharing your story about your struggle as well. It just goes to show how human we all are.
Good for you! Keep it up! It can be very hard in the beginning but it does get easier. I am opiate free now for 7 years and I will never go back. Stay strong!
Congrats, please keep your mind on the prize and stay vigilant. 11/7/2022 I lost my son to Fentanyl, and it broke me. He too had been clean for a while, but wasn't keeping up with the program. I don't want that to happen to anyone else. You matter, you are loved, and you will leave a massive hole that cannot be filled if you were gone. You can do this, and after a while, you can hopefully help others to write a new ending to their story as well. Best wishes, and God bless.
Meetings are the best! NA has changed my life man, coming up on 8 months of sobriety after years of rehabs and therapy. Now in the end I feel that a mix of it all set me straight and made me realize there’s nothing good in going back, but I am thankful for the strength and emotional development rehab, therapy, and meetings have all had on my addiction! Couldn’t get more than a few weeks and half the time I was in rehab so I couldn’t lol. Sad life. Fuck fentanyl. Had me in its grips too long and taken too many loved ones
Hey John, I want you to know how incredibly brave you were to be so candid during the Better Help ad. The stigma of addiction is often a huge hurtle for people to overcome in order to get help and, hearing you talk about it will hopefully help many others realize they are not alone. I just celebrated 7 years of sobriety a few days ago and the thing that finally made the difference for me was that I realized how little alcohol was giving me ( enjoyment, relaxation, etc.) vs what it was taking in return. Thank you for sharing your deeply personal experience with your audience; it means more than you know.
I totally agree! I actually took the video back a bit just to listen to that again. I'm in the middle of a really bad period of using alcohol to self-medicate my sadness and it's really refreshing to hear such an honest admission from a person who isn't from Hollywood for a change. I even just mentioned BetterHelp to my colleague and how I'm thinking about using it.
I am also 7 years in recovery. I'm glad to hear John open up about it, I think it will help a lot of people realize, well hell, if John can admit he's got a problem and deal with it then I don't feel so bad and maybe I can do it too. I hope anyway. Cheers to our 14 years!!
Thank you for being so transparent about your struggles. It truly takes a strong person to look at themselves and reach out for help. You are truly an inspiration and hero to many. Also, thank you for your service. You're a real stand up guy, Mr. Ballen!
I'm so sorry. Hang in there and always know that it helps when you are reaching out to people & talking about it, rather than bottling up all of those emotions.
Oh I'm so sorry 😞 I lost my soul mate 2 weeks before Xmas just gone.. To the bottle too. I'm sp sorry for your pain. I hope your mama has found her peace ❤
I've been struggling with addiction on and off for the last 15 years (I'm 35). Got off of painkillers but now I'm struggling with drinking too much and I can tell it's starting to affect my health now. Thank you for your openness.
My story is very much like yours,, accept I am an admitted addict yet recently thought I could drink bc ya know it's always been pharmaceuticals and cocaine been clean from all of that for over 3 yrs and I can relate 😮as I have been drinking thought this won't be an issue...I'm a drug addict not an alcoholic _ wrong choice and I refer to it as my addict thinking _ I should have known but no denial I am checking myself bc if I don't care why would anyone want to show support 1❤️ 1light stay well sister
I got off pills by using weed. I decarb it and grind it up and put it in capsules. It really helped. If I can do it, you can. It took awhile, but it's been nine years now.
Put the bottle down man alcohol is the stupidest thing you can put in your body. Pick up cannabis. Edibles, tinctures, dabs, whatever it takes to keep you off of alcohol and pills. You will chase everyone close to you away and lose all control over your life. Its a terrible path to walk.
@@DarkStarr11_11 20+ years a hot mess, 12+ recovery now- To me, a drug is a drug is a drug. Even if you aren't taking your drug of choice, if you partake in any mind altering substances, it's only a matter of time.
I've been an addict for 13 years. I started with opiates, got clean, started xanax, got clean, went to alcohol(i'd be trashed and passed out by 1 p.m.) then went to fentanyl and stopped drinking. I've only been clean for 2 months and the depression isn't a joke. From reading your comments, I see a lot of your followers are struggling/have struggled w addiction. It's weird to say it's beautiful, but it's amazing to see everyone coming together to admit their faults to let you know that it's nothing to he ashamed of, and you're nowhere near alone going through this. We're all proud of you John. 🖤 No one will know you're drowning, until you throw up a hand for help.
Great comment. I am also recovering from addictions of all kinds (opiates, and also being addicted to restricting calories? Same monkey different suit, all existing to try and cope with mental illness!). Therapy, co-counseling (a type of work which I recommend to anyone who wants to heal their baggage and traumas), exercise, writing songs every day like I used to, among all kinds of other things, actually do help with the depression! Anyone struggling, you definitely are not alone in this! HOPE is a real thing.
I watch you Mr. Ballen because you are real! You’re sharing extremely vulnerable things you don’t have to and do anyways because perhaps you believe it’ll help others. Thank you ❤
I have 60 days free from alcohol today. You’re courageous to share this personal aspect of your life, Mr. Ballen. People with big voices like yours help so many people. Recovery is possible and so very worth it. I am incredibly proud of you and I’m rooting for everyone who is in recovery.
Congratulations on 60 days! I hope you are feeling proud of yourself this truly is an incredibly difficult but wonderful thing you are doing for yourself.
Mr.Ballen we are ALL behind your sobriety! As a son of a sober mom for over 19 year i can say it truly helped my childhood. You are far stronger than you think!PLEASE stay strong 💪🙏
It's so bold and brave of you to share your issues with alcoholism. Everyone struggles with something, and you opening up about your struggles, and reaching out for therapy, which you have talked about many times, in your shows. This is going to help so many people. I've been watching your shows for years now and there isn't one that I haven't enjoyed. I pray for the best for you and your family. May you stay strong in your sobriety. You deserve it!!!
Mr Ballen makes my skin crawl with these stories. It makes being alone in your house to feeling like something or someone is there with you, lurking in the basement or ready to strike in the dark. These stories are crafted to send chills up our spine and to make your hairs stand up on end and are guaranteed to give you a fright. By far the best youtuber for horror content.
You have become my new favorite since I found you. Exactly what I have been looking for. It’s funny I’m going thru depression but these stories are a great escape from reality.
Been listening to Mr Ballen for a few years now. I’m currently in a treatment center right now and working on my sobriety from drugs and alcohol. Good job to you. One day at a time.
Congratulations for working on getting sober! It's such a huge step to even admit and begin treating any disorders, specially the ones that mess with our minds such as addiction does. Keep the great job in taking care of your mental and physical health! I feel like we are some sort of community, as we all enjoy listening to Mr Ballen, so I hope you believe when I say you are not alone, you got this, and we're collectively so proud of each one of us that's looking for help and treatment. You got this!
Good job to you as well. I had to go to rehab twice before I could stop drinking. My advice is just surrender to the program and just do what they tell you to do. My best thinking got me drunk, homeless and jobless. I had to let others tell me what to do for a while.
My my moms dad, and both of my dads parents were alcoholics. So are all my dads siblings, and my moms brother. They were all around the same age as my parents, and less than half of them are still alive. Whether it was from liver failure, car accidents while impaired, or alcohol poisoning, they were gone before 40. Thank you very much for taking the steps you needed to in order to be there for your family the way you should be. There are lots of additional support systems for people struggling with alcohol all over the country, and if you ever need to, please reach out to them. We've never met, but I'm proud of you for being strong enough to ask for help. And you should be proud of yourself too. Have a good day man, and thank you for your service
Congrats on your 3 weeks of sobriety! You are such a light in so many people's lives. You made a brave decision. And, although it won’t always be easy, it’s evident you have the strength to do what it takes & persevere.
Coming from a fellow active addict, I know it’s hard, I know it’s the hardest thing you’ve ever tried to do but you and I will beat this, If you’re like me and burned all your bridges in addiction, then I still believe in you and you can do this and you deserve it
If it's opiates I suggest the methadone clinic .... Gives you a lot of time to really put things into perspective without being sick with withdrawal... Changes your mind from active addiction back to a bit of normalacy then slowly weens you off without having to be super sick.
John I'm so glad to hear you are sober, congratulations. Recovery is a wonderful thing that can bring great healing, no matter what you are struggling with. Thank you for sharing about your sobriety it may encourage someone else. God bless
I like how MrBallen doesn’t try to hard to sound creepy when he tells these stories like other scary story telling UA-camrs and he actually makes you visualize the story without overdoing it
This isn’t about the story. I just wanted to congratulate you on your recent sobriety! I have 9 years clean myself and I can tell you, sobriety brings so much clarity and happiness, you’ll feel amazing ❤
Mr. Allen, Thank you so very much for being open about your struggles with mental health and addiction. Hearing someone you admire and enjoy listening to, freely speaking about real struggles so many people go through, makes such a difference. You transparency makes your story telling so much more real for me.
From one Vet to another, keep your head up man. Im going to be praying for you. Im also a recovering alcoholic who fights with PTSD!!! Love you Ballen!!!
From someone who has struggled with addiction, I want to applause you for vocalizing your sutruggles and normalizing living a life of recovery and sobriety! Life does not get better until YOU do something about it and decide to change and everyone who has ever struggled can achieve whatever they set their mind too, most of us need help along the way and thats okay! Thank you for being open and sharing, especially on the internet where there is so much judgment. Congrats on your sobriety and dont let anyone diminish your accomplishment! I wish you nothing but the best!
Join our Discord for new dedicated episode chats and dive deeper into this story!
discord.gg/mrballen
EARLYYY
i never knew you had a discord
Can you look into the ELLEBRACHT Slave Ranch in Mountain Home, Texas?!!
It's okay the like button appreciates it anyways they were going to have the house painted with new truck bed liner epoxy and they're having a Tesla solar roof put on so thanks for doing the like button to favor you're the best...
Sue husband returns i bet lol 😂
"Not a real photo of their tea." I'll never tire of Mr. B's little moments of humor snuck into these dark stories!
I think he was being serious 😂
Its either Mr. John or Mr. Allen. Where you get Mr. B from?
@@Sundog0811 "B" from "Ballen", cos thats his channe's name...duh
It’s not a joke. It’s a requirement as a content creator on UA-cam. For every single picture, he captions it either “REAL photo of…” or “NOT real photo of…” because he’s making it clear to the audience which photos he is claiming as actual photos of the story he’s telling and which ones he’s using for illustration purposes. You can get into trouble on UA-cam for not marking what is not a real photo of something.
F better help
The story about your struggles with alcoholism was very inspiring. It takes a lot of courage to admit something like that.
You actually think he was a alcoholic? :D He is making stuff up just like he did with the psychiatrist crap.
🙏🙏🙏
@@tvb1983why are you even here? Please try to be respectful
@@tvb1983there is no point in making up false disrespectful things. just leave
@@tvb1983why would you even say that. How would you know what another person is going through?
Mr. Ballen I've been in recovery for 11 year's and you coming out saying that you have a problem and on here for your fan's was heart warming and made us feel special
For real man I feel more welcomed than ever now 🤣
Crazy how I’ve watched for years and would’ve never guessed, but everyone around me could say the same which is the sad part. A lot of this shit goes unmentioned and hidden addiction is insidious
Congratulations!
I have 11 years as of January. Fight the good fight brother.
MrBallen, I have been sober since 1981. It’s not always been easy but it has been well worth it and I feel much better since then. I just avoid being around people who are drinking so that I will not be tempted ever. Working your program is essential too.
I feel so horrible for Xu, she was in a horrible situation before she met a serial killer and then was blackmailed into murdering people for him which led to her own death. Failed marriage, kidnap victim, surrvivor, murderer, incarcerated, dead. Such a horrible story.
I wouldn't call that a blackmail .. she was fully aware of what she is doing and had plenty of time to go to the police but she didn't .. she is as horrible person as Jia and the others , fix ur marriage don't think life is easy mode cose some handsome man offered u a tissue .
@@sandmandzkhalil3618How do you know she could have gone to the police? I’d think the serial killer would’ve been watching her. She probably felt terrified and powerless. It’s not like she decided out of nowhere to start killing people. She did what she felt she had to do to save her own life.
@@sandmandzkhalil3618 Xi Lixia was assaulted and strangled by Jia before being thrown into the pit, he had thought she was dead. When pulled out Jia threatened to kill her son and family if she didn't do what he told her to. She even tried running away once and was caught and severely beaten. He eventually forced her to make that video of her stabbing the business man (who was dead already) so that he had even more of a hold over her. Ultimately she deserved the death penalty for what she did, "I was just following orders" didn't work at the Nuremberg Trials and it didn't work for her.
?
@@richardwickens2923source?
My little brother passed away recently from alcoholism. he absolutely loved your videos. He first showed them to me a few years ago and ever since we always watched them together. Been a few months now since he passed and I couldn’t bring myself to watch the videos without him. This is the first one I’ve watched since than and it’s a bit comforting hearing a familiar voice. Thanks for all your videos and doing what you do!
Oh dude, I am so sorry 😞
Welcome back.. I'm certain your brother will be lurking here in the comments with you!
I've lost too many loved ones to alcohol and it's heartbreaking, I'm sorry for your pain.
Take comfort in the fact he is no longer being tortured and his soul is now at ease.
I hope watching Mr Ballen for the first time again bought you some happy memories ❤
🙏 my brother James passed in January 1999 , rest in peace . 🙏. our turn comes dew along the way . & we be layed to rest as well. 🫡
I’m so sorry about that…
Rew😮
😢
I was screaming into my phone. "No, Sue, no, not the tea. Don't drink the tea!"
So was I lol
@@XhaniiFjNO!
I was screaming "No! Dont go with him!"
😂
I didn't want her to touch the tissue.
Sunday is not complete without a MrBallen story
This fr
Its almost monday for me now in 10 minutes 😢
Today is Monday everywhere, Sunday doesn’t exist
Fr
@@njad3 Today is Sunday in the easter time zone.
It's my birthday tomorrow. I will be sober 880 days.
Happy birthday stay strong stay sober you rock
Happy belated birthday. Congrats on the sobriety, 880 days is something to be proud of. Keep uo the good work
Hell yeah bro 🫡
More will power than me
Even though you posted this three weeks ago, congratulations keep killing it!
Congrats on the 3 weeks of sobriety, dude. That's a huge deal! And thank you for using your platform to inspire others struggling with addiction to take the first steps in seeking help too.
Been sober for 84 days today man and I feel great thank you for the inspiration
Congratulations!
Well done, sobriety is worth, it as are you
Make sure you eat breakfast,lunch and head to meeting 8.. or any of them.
You got this.. idk you but I do.
Great news! Stay strong and if you get weak and drink you just get back up on that horse. You got this. May God bless you in every part of your life.
Well done!🎉One day at a time😊
7 months sober recently, it’s amazing how much better I feel mentally. Never thought I could say that. So happy for you for choosing to get sober!
Congrats🎉
you know he was reading an AI generated post right?
@@JohnRiversOfficial what difference does that make, if he's saving lives? Good grief.
Congratulations!
Honestly I wish I could give up drinking. I wish I did actually. But I drunk a jim beam bottle straight with ice and I really really enjoyed it 😆
The bloopers at the end were the best. It was a great way to lighten the mood after such a heavy story.
I use to be a heroin addict and i finally went and asked for help and have been clean and sober for 6 years 3 months 4 days. I now have a good job and have repaired my broken relationships. I'm proud of you for being able to say you had a problem and getting help with it. God is with you and will heal you mr ballin.
Used not use
@philwright2480 dude stfu is your life so sad you scroll comment sections looking for a typing error.
@@philwright2480sure he new that
@@philwright2480 Really? That's what you picked up on?
@@philwright2480 you're a turd-burglar
This man seriously has a voice for radio. It's calming yet distinct enough where it feels like you're listening to a friend telling a story
Right? Mr.Ballen's podcast has become my go-to lullaby; everyday I listen to his voice to fall asleep, and it helps so much! Of course, I end up missing 90% of each story, so during the day I go back and listen to the complete podcast episode, lol.
He has competition hahaha His name is Dougie Corrado. A lot of his listeners come from here.
Dude, how late were you to mrballen?
He's too good looking for radio lol
Agreed. This man definitely has a lot of talent. Nobody comes close to him when it comes to stories in this genre. He makes you feel like you are there reliving the story.
Oh, HELL, NO! A freaking pit of people! Good grief, that is beyond horrible!!
I got too distracted by his better health promo luckily he easily got me back on track. I’m so glad I’m not in crime investigation idk if I could handle seeing that.
@@felicityb4949 2 of the chemicals released when a body decompose are aptly called putrescene and cadaverine. Yeah you can guess what they smell like. When word sound like they smell you know they're bad
Yeah the gas masks made me sick a bit in my mouth.
But I don't have a serial killer mind, I thought they would try to blackmail the corporate married men, like have a naked girl photos...but nothing to do with money huh? Just the thrill of killing?
If you've never smelled a rotting body, the smell is unforgettable. Even objects will absorb the smell and there is no guarantee the smell will go away. It is Foul!🤢
As someone who's struggled with addiction & has been dry for coming on 14 years I appreciate you being so open about your struggles with alcohol
My hypothesis on why she killed the guys instead of fleeing: He was probably watching her get the first guy and he filmed her killing him, all things she did to avoid being put back down in the pit of dead bodies. Then he had blackmail of her murdering the dude so she kept doing it. He probably convinced her no one would believe her over him.
I agree Stockholm Syndrome is a real thing
@@moodycrab77
Do you think that her culture had a lot to do with her continuing to listen and do what this guy said? I'm wondering if the same thing would have happened in a different country like here in Canada or the states. And yes I do agree that Stockholm Syndrome is a real thing but Sue by the sounds of it wasn't very long before she was killing people, and anyone else in that short of time I believe would have run to the cops
I just *knew* there'd be people in the comments making excuses for her and sympathizing with a person who killed at least a dozen men who were all loved by people. But everyone's so gullible, flaunting their fake compassion until the moment they, themselves, actually encounter malevolence or are revealed as malevolent.
Womp womp
Imagine defending a murderer
Congratulations on your sobriety! As a military spouse I feel so many servicemen and women end up with a very unhealthy relationship with alcohol and I’m so glad you’re working with your therapist to kick that vicious cycle!! ❤
How did you manage to spoil an ad break of all things lolol
It’s a big problem with vets, even worse if they have PTSD. I met a guy who said he’d drink an entire glass of bourbon (not a whiskey glass, a water glass) before going to bed. I wish we would take better care of our veterans!
*our. Not pur.
alcohol outright destroyed my life, and permanently damaged my stomach and liver, as well as left me with more mental issues than i had before i picked up alcohol at age 13. im over 5.5 years sober now, but its brutal imagining what my life would be like if i never picked up the bottle at all. alcohol casually being legal and usually talked about lightly when its in the top 5 most addictive and destructive drugs we have, and one of only 3 families of drugs that can kill you for quitting. i hate how its such a common and widely accepted thing.
Alcohol is readily available through pop machines tokens are used.
Your honesty with your alcohol problems is inspiring John. Thank you for leading the way with strength, honesty and humility.
That's awesome news. I have 14yrs of sobriety and there is no way I could do it by myself. Counciling and having access to a sponsor is what saved my life and held me to flourish in my sobriety. It's more than just quitting the drink, it's about people places and thing that will set you off and how you should handle every situation you might experience. One thing i was told that will always stay with me is, while you're in here, learning who you are and how to live, your addiction is in the parking lot doing push ups waiting for you the second you step out the door. So he said you'd better be making the same commitment to sobriety as your addiction is to getting you back. I'm proud of you man , one day at a time and never be ashamed to ask fpr more help if you need it. There are many of us that go far beyond just help not using, it's about changing your life for the better and doing without any substance needed.. God speed my friend..
I get your talking about the sponsorship part but that may not be the best way to start out a comment on a vid like this 😂😂😂
@TheBestZach1 excuse me, but who do you think you are. I'm reaching out to someone in need and need and because it's not your way, it's not the tight way.. look man, I'm about helping people and lifting them up. I don't need to read your complaints on how I tell my story and the way I offer help. Please stop putting people down and if ypu don't have anything good to say, just keep it to yourself. You'll live longer and have a much better attitude and life. God bless you..
@@stevenfryer7660 if you hit the little comment button below someone else’s comment it automatically puts their tag in your comment and I was just tryna lighten the mood ya feel like this is and amazing accomplishment for him and it’s cool God gave us this opportunity to congratulate that but I just wanted to put laughing emojis in this comment section and have some fun fr 😁
When you discussed your struggles with alcohol that helped my husband so much, he’s been struggling with it due to the fact that he gets severe panic attacks out of nowhere. In fact he’s I the middle of detoxing right now. I’m very proud of him. Thank you so much for sharing that. You seem like such a genuine person we love your videos.
consider getting him checked for Asthma. weird, but sometimes related.
Struggling too love!! Best of luck and take care of yourselves xx
@@hellannthefirst5529also sleep apnea.
Getting sober will eventually help his anxiety. He'll have some rough times, but it's so worth it. Best wishes!
He can do it! I never thought I could stop yet did.
Never be ashamed of addiction.
Sending you both love and light!
🙌🏼🤍💫🕊️✨🙏
The kiddo is down for a nap. Now, it’s time for my bedtime story
🙌🙌🙌
Hii 😊😊@@MrBallen
Same lol
@@MrBallenmrballen betterhelp is a scam. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has announced a proposed action against the online therapy service BetterHelp, Inc. for mishandling consumers' private health information, particularly regarding mental health issues, and using it for advertisement purposes.
Pls look into this
Same!
I got out of the Marines in 2010. What followed was a debilitating takeover of my body mind and soul. I got into recovery and I worked the steps and AA program with a sponsor and finally got sober in 2014 and haven't had a single sip of alcohol since. Alcohol is a highly addictive substance that no one really talks about it as it's woven so deeply into the fabric of our society in every way. Thank you for sharing experience and remember you dont have to do it alone.
Alcohol is a blight on society ..
i woke up one morning whilst on my 3rd week of a bender, ive had enough of this shit i thought,, 7.5 yrs sober.
Woven very deeply unfortunately. I commend you for your strength and courage my man!
I understand.
I don’t know many that don’t struggle after returning to civilian life.
I know it’s rough.
I’m glad you took the steps needed to lead a fulfilling life again.
If it weren’t for my family I’d be dead.
this really needs nuanceing. there is no need to throw out the baby with the bathwater. It really is a matter of self control and attached to that mental or psychological issues. some people are more prone to addiction than others. this can have many causes. often trauma or depression and sometimes genetically. The overwhelming majority of people are perfectly able to deal with alcohol. There is nothing wrong with having a glass of wine with a nice dinner or to enjoy an icecold beer during a BBQ on a nice warm summersday. I myself are very afraid of alcohol. i have an aunt who is a hardened alcoholic and it is awful to see her glide down a very slippery slope. But im perfectly fine with a glass of white wine at a dinner party.
Some people lack self control (for whatever understandable or ununderstandable reason) but if alcohol wouldnt exist they would most definitely resort to other things to abuse. Sex or food is also something that can be highly addictive. that doesnt mean that sex or food is a blight on society or should be outlawed.
Thank you for sharing your struggles with alcoholism. Trying to get my dad help, he is in the same scenario you described. Thank you for raising awareness 🙏🏼
John, im a recovering addict myself! I am almost to 4 years clean from drugs! I got sepsis in 2020. Coulsnt walk bc of it. I lived in a recliner for 3 weeks where i "slept" and urinated (ik gross but thats how bad it was). I didnt shower for 4 weeks bc of the pain. I just sat in that chair and rotted away. Finally got diagnosed correctly and stayed in the hospital for 2 months and had to learn to walk again. It was one of the most traumatic experiences of my life and it was caused by drug use. Been clean since! With a lot of intense therapy, self love and hard work, i am the happiest i have ever been! ❤ we appreciate your being open and sharing that. You have a lot of followers that can relate
Dang. Thanks for sharing your story. Stay strong. Best wishes!
Wow!! U really experienced hell on earth! So glad to hear u overcame your addiction & are happy! U have a powerful story keep sharing it might help someone!
thanks for sharing 🙏🏼 you’ll do good things
Man this makes me so frickin happy! As a recovering addict myself (8 years 🎉) my heart bleeds for any fellow addict, when i see comments like yours, it brings me genuine joy to hear of others doing so well. I'm proud of you baby turkey! Keep being the coolest cleanest turkey there is ❤
it’s so good to hear that i’m not the only one here with these issues. :) i’m 8 months clean rn. thanks for sharing your story more power to you!
Sober 24 years this August.
I could not keep my word to myself when it pertained to booze, too.
It was ugly.
I had no peace, only isolation and secret drinking.
You got this!
Your life will be better.
Your family will be better.
You will be available to your own children when they start experimenting.
Much love and respect.
very true, nothing matters only the drink...
Congrats! I have 5 months yesterday. 18 years of being stuck in an endless loop of heroin addiction and this is the longest period of sobriety I’ve ever had. It’s cliche but true, if I can do it then literally anyone can do it. I was a straight up scumbag doing some of the scummiest things to loved ones, friends, exs, and innocent strangers. I’m not proud of the chaos and pain I cause in others lives, but all I can do is learn from it and never make those mistakes again. It’s def worth it and everything you said will get better has. If you truly put in the work and want to change the world things will def get better in EVERY aspect of life. 24 years is amazing, keep it up!
I felt everything you said! You go!! Proud of you!
Congrats, that is awesome.
Thank you for sharing your vulnerability with addiction.
Thank for adding all the bloopers at the end. Your smile is contagious
That made me laugh😆
Physical comedy is the best comedy XD
He's trying to distract you from him promoting unethical betterhelp
@@ModMon711 oof that one. Yes. That`s unfortanate
"It's not even funny." Excuse me? It is funny! Thank you!
The police not looking into the missing people until a man went missing is so real :/
Another well-told story, thanks!!
Your laughter in the bloopers is very infectious. 😅 That was a horrifying story. But it would make a very good film thriller.
I was a ‘two bottles of wine a night’ drinker. Then, in 2007, I gave it up over night. I went from being someone who panicked if I couldn’t get to the off-license before it closed, to only having a couple of spritzers on special occasions.
Sobriety is awesome and I would highly recommend it to anyone. The novelty never wears off.
Well done, Mr Ballen. You can do it!!!!! 👍😃🇺🇸🇬🇧
HI MrBallen! I'm just a sister of recovery! 2.5 yrs clean from everything. I'm so proud of you. You are not alone! ❤
🍻
Good for you ! Keep it up my friend . In the end drink/drugs just make your problems worse , they never help . Believe me , I know sweetheart
Best of luck x
I hope you make it reach 25 😊
1 year here! ❤ Spreading the love!
Feels so good to be part of the recovering. Congrats.
@MrBallen, I'm so proud of you. My daughter got clean and sober on 9/15/2020. Others in the family said she would do it again and would hold it against her. Just remember what I told her. Your life is like a book. I asked her if this was going to be her paragraph, chapter, or book and that no one could write her book. They can comment about it, but in the end it is her book, her story. And her story has helped others along the way. Keep writing your story. We are cheering for you.
When you shared your struggles with alcohol that really spoke to me- I've been a bad alcoholic since i was 16 (I'm 33 now) and I'm 1 year and 3 months sober 😀 Congratulations on your sobriety! You'll feel so much better for it!
I've been a long time follower of yours. I too struggled with alcohol. I'm an 8 year Army vet, hit absolute rock bottom by the end of 2022. I ended up hospitalized, spent a week in a VA mental health ward followed by 60 days in a VA domiciliary. It was just dry time. Two weeks later I went to an inpatient program in Houston for 7 months at the PTSD Foundation of America's Camp Hope. It changed my life and my mental health was the full reason behind my substance abuse. The moral of this comment is I know your struggle. I hit 15 months sober a couple weeks ago with zero desire to drink. It's a beautiful feeling and it gets easier as time goes on. Keep up the fight. It's ok to stumble as long as you keep pushing forward. Much love bro.
My brother in arms keep it up. One day at a time! Former USMC. I go to veterans hospital in Houston. Start reading the Bible. Start in the gospel of John. This book is about the love of Jesus Christ, for you. Pray daily, find a spirit filled church. Camp Hope is a fantastic organization! Live daily, and thank God! Be at peace, God loves you big time!
Have you ever used ketamine treatment for ur PTSD I also suffer from PTSD and was just wondering if you had ever used this before, I'm sure you have heard of it
Getting over a drug addiction starts from within. Getting fucked up from ketamine or using psychedelics won’t help you get over a drug addiction.
@@Bigguy13-sy6mk you might consider medical journal reviews!
@@MissionaryForMexico Absolutely brother. God, prayer, and the spiritual community are the biggest reasons I'm where I'm at in life. I appreciate your comment and much love.
Thanks for your honesty, it takes a real man to admit a weakness, confront it, then make himself vulnerable sharing his story because he has compassion for others.
so true i am proud of him
I'm so surprised there isn't a flood of comments about betterhelp being a scam. Seen it on 3 other channels, recently. People forget so quickly... It makes me start doubting mr ballen's story about drinking.
@@MultiChrisjb its for the context of ads. People really forget they are watching a youtube channel.
@@techieplex still i don't think anyone who really cares about their audience at all should promo betterhelp
@@MultiChrisjbThanks for your input, I'm doing research on it for myself now.
Update - After digging around for info it seems that the organisation isn't technically a scam but it is quite dodgy. The stories from people who worked there are enough to convince me they are lacking integrity and professionalism and are far more interested in profit than the welfare of their paying clients. I would never recommend them to anyone. Maybe they did help John and he had a good experience. That's very possible given they want him to promote their business. He may be quite sincere about his experience and as it was good decides they are worth recommending. They may have given him the red carpet/royal treatment for his endorsement. It makes sense, who can argue with someone's personal experience or convince him it's an unethical business in that case?
Thank you for opening up about your sobriety. My brother is an alcoholic and has been one for years, he recently admitted that he needs help and checked himself into a rehab. Wishing both of you the best on your journey to sobriety.
MrBallen, I got sucked into your channel with your very unique and gripping stories, but when you stopped to talk about your life and betterhelp, you actually spoke to me. Just what I needed today. Thanks bro.
man I love it when mr Ballen uploads a video on a Sunday. It makes my day a whole lot better.
till school/work the next day
Gives me the adrenaline to get through the week.
forget church, this here is the weekly sermon lol
Not day, more like a week better
It makes my week a whole lot better, going back to watching on my TV 😊
Mr Ballen, you are a winner, and so are all others who are in recovery. I lost a son to alcoholism, he is still alive, but after 24 years of it, he gave up and totally broke contact. I miss him terribly.
I’m so sorry ❤
My son disappeared for 10 years..he is back!
They will come back when they want the help... I just hope he realizes that there is help for him
@losonsrenoster Were there is life there is hope!
Soooo you DIDNT lose a son. Gotcha. See and now everyone can virtue signal and make it about them to tie themselves to greatness. It doesn't take courage to sober up. Infact THEYD tell you they're at rock bottom and that's why they stopped 💯 this is the problem. White liberal moms love explaining how hard their lives are from their laps of luxury.
I FINALLY found a military combat therapist. It was a miracle. I’m happy for your health improving. You are a delight.
I'm happy for you mate!
I was never believed by anyone, it was a military therapist that diagnosed me. Oh and once I told a WWII vet that I didn’t have real PTSD as I wasn’t a soldier and he got really upset and told me it’s the same illness regardless of how I got it.
Mr Ballen has been a big help too but really all military types have helped!.
@@MiddayEnglishman Same here. Not believed. Invalidated. Those who have been through and seen the shit we have are a special type of warrior. Unfortunately, we also have an OFF button, so it’s important to stay on the beam. You are seen, believed and acknowledged here. Keep ur head up!
Godspeed
Fake
The bloopers crack me up after a miserable story. Thanks boss 🫡
Huge congratulations on your sobriety! I made that decision in 2007, the first year was rough but my wife was very supportive.
I've got 4 days in now. I wanna be you when I grow up 😍
@@kathismith2865 that's amazing! Keep going strong! Channeling that towards something like weightlifting has been a good send for me.
God send*
@@kathismith2865 You will grow up to have decades of sobriety behind you too! As will I
@@Lil_lioness
Bless you my friend. Thank you.😍
I gotta give Mr Ballen mad props for being open about his struggles with alcohol addiction. A lot of people suffer from this but don't talk about it. We often think of winos on the street or "losers" being alcoholics but realistically, no one is immune. It can affect the richest man just as much as the poorest.
Being open is a sign to others that it is okay to talk about one's struggle with alcohol and get the help that they need. Mad props
I love these bloopers at the end - this is probably the most candid i've ever saw you and it was so endearing
i know!! i loved it🥹
We all need a little laugh after these stories. I loved it☺️
Spoiler blocker ⚠️🛑
Faxxx!!!! just listen, one of the tops stories he covered that had me driving lighting cigarette after cigarette and I don’t even smoke.
Your a hero 👏🏼
Duuude thank you!!
Hero❤
You are an angel
I adore you
The fact the police only started to seriously investigate this case when a man went missing is kinda disgusting
Unfortunately not surprising 😤
I don't think China is known for how women are treated. 1 child......
You must not be familiar with how China works.
@@alice6432123 she's Asian, I'm sure she does
That's why Chinese women know how to act.
Mr Ballen laughing compilation was the most wholesome beautiful thing I've ever seen. It feels like watching my dad laughing at his own funny story.
YES! I freaking loved it! 😂
Coming from a family that has been absolutely destroyed by alcohol and substance abuse, good for you that you are finally getting help and getting better. I know it means nothing coming from a random internet guy, but felt like i had to say this regardless. Keep being awesome.
Hey: it means something to random internet people. Trust me on this. Thank you.
Alcohol obliterated my family of origin also. Nothing quite like half a dozen mean drunks on your case.
Definitely love the bloopers! Along with the delicate nature in which you share these stories, the bloopers just add that extra bit that shows just how human you really are. People really relate more to those that provide a real palpable connection when meeting face to face isn’t an option. It’s easy to see why there are so many followers to your channels. I would definitely like to see more bloopers when you get a chance. Thank you!
Thank you so much for being vulnerable in sharing your sobriety. We are all cheering you on.
Genuine terror can absolutely prevent a person from going to the police. “What if they don’t believe me? What if he finds out?”
I was thinking that, but I was also thinking maybe they wanted to impress him. He's probably a very suave and charming guy, along with being well dressed and handsome, they probably wanted his approval. But I could be reading into it too much, they were probably just afraid.
@@jenniferb.awesomeI found him below average looking.
@@jenniferb.awesome And considering the abusive & controlling relationship she had just fled, she may have felt a bit empowered by being the one in control for a change, too. Fear, power, and approval could make a pretty scary cocktail for some people in a situation like that o.O
but the terror of later being sentenced to death becasue of being involved , what a life
You wheelchair psychologists really piss me off
If I woke up in a pit of dead people, I’d freak out and start screaming bloody murder!!! 😱 It’s horrifying to think about!
That's why we must NEVER forget what the millions of Jewish Children and Babies suffered during the Holocaust. They were frequently thrown alive into body pits and into cremation ovens. I can't bear to think of what a horrific death that was. The world hasn't learned. Hate still rules this world.
actually you're the witcher so ud do something about it instead o standing there screaming like a ninny
What if the pit is dark…could you see the dead people? 😅
@@ryanneal6409 yes, once your eyes adjust to the darkness. Of course, you could also feel the bodies around your feet and know they’re dead by how cold they feel. You don’t have to rely on sight alone.
@@ultimatewitcherfan6677 yes your eyes will adjust, but thats if there is any form of light in the room. If there is no light, you're eyes will not be able to adjust enough to recognize features of an actual body
Almost 3 years clean, congrats on your sobriety and thank you for being so vulnerable ❤
The fact that these stories are true is what blows my mind the most.
Made in China!
Lol @@Trancymind
Tbh I haven't read or found anything about these incidents at all? Can you cite a link?
People ARE monsters
@@muneebm5247 Just search for "Jia Wenge Nehe" on google and you'll find articles about this case. You can also look for "Xu Lixia Nehe", the woman who was kidnapped.
I have a little over 5 years sober now! super proud of you for starting this journey! remember, healing is not linear! you got this!
beautiful message :)
It was from a sponsor, he had to come up with SOME story. Not saying it’s 100% false, but he had to say SOMETHING to incorporate his sponsor into the video. We just don’t know cuz again he had to come up with a story about his mental health, or how else would he have incorporated the add into the video?? 🤔
@@kayleigh3648 of course, it doesn't mean it is less impactful. but think about it this way, maybe he agreed to the sponsor *because* of his mental health and addiction history...
@claireallen-qd9bb great response!
My husband is a veteran as well and your alcohol struggles were the same as what we went through word for word. He is now sober and a much better person and one I love being around ! ❤ It seems a lot of the veterans in this country struggle with this or similar things. Good on you for both recognizing it and loving your wife enough to do something about it
Good on you for being a wife that honors her commitment and stays with her husband rather than running.
Thanks to your husband for his service. 🇺🇸
God bless you..I am praying you stay away from booze...
Thank you so much for being so vulnerable and transparent. I gave up alcohol completely in march of this year. It has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I also feel like it’s permanent and my decision was based on having a surprise third baby last summer. I had to make sure I had my wits about me. It’s a lot of energy and a lot of work and I would do it exactly the same way all over again if I had the chance. Thank you for being brave. I absolutely love your channel. Longtime fan.
Your bloopers were a CLASSIC pallet-cleanser after such a weird case. I also appreciate you being so open about your struggles. It makes you all the more relatable. Not everyone can do that, and I admire it. Love what you're doing, man. Keep up the good work!
Did I miss why no one reported her missing? She was a kindergarten teacher. Did they think she quit her job?
I think because her marriage was falling apart so her husband just figured she left him
she mightve quit bc she went to his house for a job opportunity or maybe her co workers knew she wasnt happy
Yep? That confused me too
Roby , I posted a question here , "Does anyone watching Mr Ballen have any comments or experience about the credibility of police in China? I would love to hear it , fellow subscribers.: I have a few suspicions.
@@alexissmith7811 her marriage has nothing to do with her job as a teacher for a school. The fact that the school didn't say anything is odd or overlooked.
That's fantastic news, my dad was addicted to it too but he stayed sober for 28 years up to when he passed. I was so proud of him.
Thats whats up man🎉🎉🎉🎉
Same with my dad! He got sober and stayed sober for 28 years and he went out on a fishing trip with a guys who we thought were his friends. One of the guys offered him a beer and he turned him down there different times and the guy told him that one wasn’t gonna hurt him. Well you know, once you get that taste, that’s all she wrote. My mom divorced him after a year and he drank himself to death. I hate that his life ended like that bc they (him and my mom) had so many things planned out for when they retired and here it is now that he died from a broken heart and drinking and she’s just watching the time go by like she’s ready to go to her Heavenly Home.
@@debrajones4010 Im so sorry , im praying for you and your mom
Nice
My father was hade been sober forover20yrs and till he past😢
@Mrballen im a veteran with PTSD and when i got out i self medicated with drugs and its a struggle. I know how alcohol and veterans go hand in hand (i was never a drinker) but i commend you for being open and honest about your struggles it helps us other veterans know we are not alone in our struggles, its very hard because our pride wants us to keep this straight lace look. Its hard man but keep going im in the beginning stages myself.
I’m very proud of you for being so honest and open about your alcohol issue. Your honesty will really touch a lot of people.
It was from a sponsor, he had to come up with SOME story. Not saying it’s 100% false, but he had to say SOMETHING to incorporate his sponsor into the video. We just don’t know cuz again he had to come up with a story about his mental health, or how else would he have incorporated the add into the video?? 🤔
His honesty will also aid in his ability to continue to avoid this addiction.
Thanks for sharing John! I'm an ex Marsoc Marine combat veteran, and I was a self medicating, feeling sorry for myself, mess for years! My daughters and wife deserved sooooo much better than me!! I'm proud to say, I got myself a great ptsd doc and have been sober for 6 years now. I'm 100% me again!😁
God bless you and thank you for your service !!!
Good for you man, I’m trying to do better for my girls too ❤
God Bless you and thank you for your service!! So glad you are doing well!! Best wishes to you and yours!!💖🙏💖🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
God Bless you man. Atleast you managed to pull yourself together and realized what really mattered.
Selfmedicated aswell. Bit knew what I was doing. Meaning being sober. Only drink a little to het stuck tears out. And snoke a little weed in firework season. Little aid to get me where I want and need to be on rare occasions, but as little as possible. With time no more. Only way is to face it head on. Sometimes a tactical retreat to face it at a better time and place. Triggers will keep comming. Dealing with them will get better. Not by hiing in substances, but training and experience. I still het angru and das, but less extreme and I can manage it. First firework first new years eve sounded like shots and I dropped. Then laughed.
I've lived and travelled in China for 20 years. china is a weird place. So secured, you never hear about violent crimes. We walk around at night and not worrying about anything. However whenever you hear about violent crimes, it's way too extreme to comprehend.
CCP censors the media, chatts etc
It's far from secure, they just don't tell you
thats just wrong lol, the ccp covers up al of it, that's why you never hear anything about stuff like that.
Yea theres some English bloke living in China. He makes videos about Chinas crazy random killing sprees and it happens daily. The media doesnt show this and people who have these videos have to take them down. China is dangerous.
Because there isn't that much crime, I have families there and young niece and nephew, they can walk around themselves at odd hours. Its generally a safe place, due to the culture of East Asian, this is no different to Chinatown or Koreatown in the West. Its not a weird place considering the West have 500 genders and very high crime rate.
thakn you so much for sharing some of your story
I never got to hear my mom admit she had a problem, and drinking was definitely a part of her passing on. I'm proud of you for being able to recognize you have something youre struggling with and how it affects your family. Really wishing you the best with conquering that.
"Not a real photo of their tea" 😂😂
Why can't John just use "Representational" word 😂
Well, he IS spilling some spicy tea rn!😂😮
@@badkitty4922😂
They have been getting better 😂
Thank you for sharing your addiction to alcohol, I too have an addiction and I’ve been in therapy for years. Your story came at a time when I just told my husband this afternoon that I gambled again.
I’m a first responder and I have a gambling addiction. I’m self excluded from my usual gambling casinos but over the weekend while he was away, I gambled on new online casinos. You opening up made me realize for the first time, I need to find a new therapist and I’m going to my first GA meeting on Tuesday. Thank you, for sharing you’ve truly helped me realize I need different and more help. And as always, thanks for another great story.
Meetings are the best! NA has changed my life man, coming up on 8 months of sobriety after years of rehabs and therapy. Now in the end I feel that a mix of it all set me straight and made me realize there’s nothing good in going back, but I am thankful for the strength and emotional development rehab, therapy, and meetings have all had on my addiction! Couldn’t get more than a few weeks and half the time I was in rehab so I couldn’t lol. Sad life
@@perculator999 Thank you for sharing and I’m so glad to see that they do work. I’ve been wanting to go to a meeting for a long time but, it’s I’ve been putting it off because it’s like if I do go, it’s real. If that makes any sense. I promised my husband no matter what I will go tomorrow.
@@michelechesney3599 yeah man, trust me, it makes complete sense. I denied my addiction for years, almost thinking that by admitting I had an issue. that it would give it more power. I get a bad case of the “f**k-its” and would just use “being an addict” as another bullet in my artillery of destroying myself and my relationships with drugs. But, in both A.A. AND N.A. have the same steps and principles, and the very first step is admitting you are an addict, and are powerless over your addiction. You could not manage life during addiction, and drugs/alcohol took over your life. As an addict, we want to have “power” or “control” over everything in our life. It’s hard to admit we’re powerless in the beginning, makes you feel “weak” in a way. But trust me, it’s the greatest thing I’ve ever done. Knowing there’s nothing I can do to change the past, move forward, and admit I have no control over drugs and stop beating myself up because I know I was powerless over my addiction. I am powerless for the past. I am powerless for how people act. I am powerless over LIFE, and the sad part is with or without drugs, LIFE HAPPENS, no matter what. But, we never have to use again. One day at a time, taking life on life’s terms, and knowing when we are powerless and finding the solution rather than feeling sorry for ourselves, we grow. Respond, don’t react. I’m sorry for the long message, I never do this but hearing addicts share their story and their strength is something I take very seriously and has been a big part of my life, and I don’t want to come off as preachy lol 🤣 I just hope there’s something you’d be able to gain from my experience. At the end of the day, I can only speak on what has worked for me and what I have done. Everyone’s recovery is different, so I truly hope that if I can give you even one small nugget of info that could benefit you on your road to recovery, then my missions has been accomplished. I am not saying “do as I say,” I mean it more as “this is what worked for me, and maybe something you may be able to take from my story!”
And I worded that wrong a bit on my last comment, wherever I say “you” such as when I said “you could not manage your life,” I am speaking of myself in third person! I am not saying YOU directly, I’m taking a step back and speaking to myself in a way. I should have used “I” but I was rambling lol, apologies.
@@michelechesney3599 and I truly hope the meeting went well and that you were around a good and healthy group of people in recovery. Just like anywhere, there’s always bad apples and I have heard some stories. Personally, I have never had any issues at my home group in this year and a half of going three times a week. I like to think I’ve been blessed that way, the group of people in that first meeting opened their arms and hugged me and told me to keep coming back, and they’re still by my side. NA is beautiful, having people check up on me to make sure I’m GOOD, without any intentions or attempts to gain something from me. The streets are not like that, and I have learned to drop my guard in this fellowship. NA’s goal is to spread love and show that we DO recover. I have truly found a second family in NA, I cannot speak to my “normie” family members that have never used when I want to GET HIGH. It’s taboo to them. But an experienced addict in recovery knows how you feel, they’ve lived it. I have learned and gained so much from new members in this fellowship. I wish you the best in your recovery and sorry for the slow response. Even when you feel alone, you have someone you can even just comment on a video to, I will always respond eventually. That’s what we want to show in NA to addicts, you are never alone and you are understood. There is always a meeting somewhere, and members in NA will always listen and understand and relate, on top of being able to provide advice on what worked for them and got them out of their bottoms. It could be the first time you’ve ever been in a meeting, hell you could have just walked in to the meeting 30 minutes after copping still twacked out (I know I was), and every member in that room will sit there and listen to you and shake their heads yes and relate to you, and at the end, tell you to come back tomorrow, and truly want you to better yourself, and never have intentions of gaining or using you for something. It’s truly a blessing having people who want to talk to you to check on your wellbeing, without second intentions. Peace and love, and remember, WE DO RECOVER, one day at a time. Yesterday happened already and tomorrow isn’t promised, worry about the NOW.
Thank you for sharing your struggles with alcohol. I’ve suffered from addiction since I was 16, just recently got out of treatment the beginning of the month. I overdosed 2 times in a week & almost died. I ended up in the ICU. Thank you so much for being transparent & vulnerable with your audience ♥️ we love you!
John, 16 years active from one Navy vet to another, I pray for your continued success in sobriety. I got sober seven years ago and it wasn't always easy. I was given an ultimatum by my wife to sober up or else. 7 years later I'm divorced, single dad, had lost my job for a while and almost lost the house, and there was a lot of pain spiritually and mentally. But ya boy is still sober. I got sober for her but I stayed sober for me!! You can do this brother, and not like you would ever need my help or anything, but if you ever do, sailor to sailor/sober to sober I got your six.
I wish my dad could do this :(
Beautiful soul.
Congratulations!
Love your post! 9 years for me!!
@@emilykapallen4979 I'm so sorry for how your dad's addiction affects your family. Please don't ever feel responsible for his addiction or for him not working on getting sober, though. Unfortunately we can't make our loved ones look for treatment if they aren't ready to do so.
I too struggle with having an addictive personality. I am currently in treatment and am 42 days sober from Fyntenol and I couldn’t be happier. Thank you for sharing your story about your struggle as well. It just goes to show how human we all are.
Good for you! Keep it up! It can be very hard in the beginning but it does get easier. I am opiate free now for 7 years and I will never go back. Stay strong!
Congrats, please keep your mind on the prize and stay vigilant. 11/7/2022 I lost my son to Fentanyl, and it broke me. He too had been clean for a while, but wasn't keeping up with the program. I don't want that to happen to anyone else. You matter, you are loved, and you will leave a massive hole that cannot be filled if you were gone. You can do this, and after a while, you can hopefully help others to write a new ending to their story as well. Best wishes, and God bless.
It’s spelled fentanyl, if you were really hooked on it. 🤷♂️
Meetings are the best! NA has changed my life man, coming up on 8 months of sobriety after years of rehabs and therapy. Now in the end I feel that a mix of it all set me straight and made me realize there’s nothing good in going back, but I am thankful for the strength and emotional development rehab, therapy, and meetings have all had on my addiction! Couldn’t get more than a few weeks and half the time I was in rehab so I couldn’t lol. Sad life. Fuck fentanyl. Had me in its grips too long and taken too many loved ones
@@terryquinn7765 you probably cannot spell everything you ingest either…
Hey John, I want you to know how incredibly brave you were to be so candid during the Better Help ad. The stigma of addiction is often a huge hurtle for people to overcome in order to get help and, hearing you talk about it will hopefully help many others realize they are not alone. I just celebrated 7 years of sobriety a few days ago and the thing that finally made the difference for me was that I realized how little alcohol was giving me ( enjoyment, relaxation, etc.) vs what it was taking in return. Thank you for sharing your deeply personal experience with your audience; it means more than you know.
I totally agree! I actually took the video back a bit just to listen to that again. I'm in the middle of a really bad period of using alcohol to self-medicate my sadness and it's really refreshing to hear such an honest admission from a person who isn't from Hollywood for a change. I even just mentioned BetterHelp to my colleague and how I'm thinking about using it.
And congratulations on 7 years sober :) That's nearing a decade of sobriety. Sending massive congrat's from New Zealand.
I am also 7 years in recovery. I'm glad to hear John open up about it, I think it will help a lot of people realize, well hell, if John can admit he's got a problem and deal with it then I don't feel so bad and maybe I can do it too. I hope anyway. Cheers to our 14 years!!
Thank you for being so transparent about your struggles. It truly takes a strong person to look at themselves and reach out for help. You are truly an inspiration and hero to many. Also, thank you for your service. You're a real stand up guy, Mr. Ballen!
my mom just recently passed due to complications from alcoholism and other medical/psychiatric issues. so proud of you, keep going strong ❤
may your life be full of happiness and may god help you and never let you feel sadness again
I'm so sorry. Hang in there and always know that it helps when you are reaching out to people & talking about it, rather than bottling up all of those emotions.
Oh I'm so sorry 😞
I lost my soul mate 2 weeks before Xmas just gone..
To the bottle too.
I'm sp sorry for your pain. I hope your mama has found her peace ❤
I've been struggling with addiction on and off for the last 15 years (I'm 35). Got off of painkillers but now I'm struggling with drinking too much and I can tell it's starting to affect my health now. Thank you for your openness.
My story is very much like yours,, accept I am an admitted addict yet recently thought I could drink bc ya know it's always been pharmaceuticals and cocaine been clean from all of that for over 3 yrs and I can relate 😮as I have been drinking thought this won't be an issue...I'm a drug addict not an alcoholic _ wrong choice and I refer to it as my addict thinking _ I should have known but no denial I am checking myself bc if I don't care why would anyone want to show support 1❤️ 1light
stay well sister
I got off pills by using weed. I decarb it and grind it up and put it in capsules. It really helped. If I can do it, you can. It took awhile, but it's been nine years now.
Put the bottle down man alcohol is the stupidest thing you can put in your body. Pick up cannabis. Edibles, tinctures, dabs, whatever it takes to keep you off of alcohol and pills. You will chase everyone close to you away and lose all control over your life. Its a terrible path to walk.
Choices
@@DarkStarr11_11
20+ years a hot mess, 12+ recovery now- To me, a drug is a drug is a drug. Even if you aren't taking your drug of choice, if you partake in any mind altering substances, it's only a matter of time.
I've been an addict for 13 years. I started with opiates, got clean, started xanax, got clean, went to alcohol(i'd be trashed and passed out by 1 p.m.) then went to fentanyl and stopped drinking. I've only been clean for 2 months and the depression isn't a joke. From reading your comments, I see a lot of your followers are struggling/have struggled w addiction. It's weird to say it's beautiful, but it's amazing to see everyone coming together to admit their faults to let you know that it's nothing to he ashamed of, and you're nowhere near alone going through this. We're all proud of you John. 🖤
No one will know you're drowning, until you throw up a hand for help.
❤❤❤❤❤
I’m proud of you!
Thank you
Now we're addicted to mr ballen ( and opiates for me) 😂
Great comment. I am also recovering from addictions of all kinds (opiates, and also being addicted to restricting calories? Same monkey different suit, all existing to try and cope with mental illness!).
Therapy, co-counseling (a type of work which I recommend to anyone who wants to heal their baggage and traumas), exercise, writing songs every day like I used to, among all kinds of other things, actually do help with the depression!
Anyone struggling, you definitely are not alone in this! HOPE is a real thing.
I watch you Mr. Ballen because you are real! You’re sharing extremely vulnerable things you don’t have to and do anyways because perhaps you believe it’ll help others. Thank you ❤
I have 60 days free from alcohol today. You’re courageous to share this personal aspect of your life, Mr. Ballen.
People with big voices like yours help so many people.
Recovery is possible and so very worth it. I am incredibly proud of you and I’m rooting for everyone who is in recovery.
Congratulations on 60 days! I hope you are feeling proud of yourself this truly is an incredibly difficult but wonderful thing you are doing for yourself.
60 days is a pretty epic milestone! Congrats dude!
Mr.Ballen we are ALL behind your sobriety! As a son of a sober mom for over 19 year i can say it truly helped my childhood. You are far stronger than you think!PLEASE stay strong 💪🙏
It's so bold and brave of you to share your issues with alcoholism. Everyone struggles with something, and you opening up about your struggles, and reaching out for therapy, which you have talked about many times, in your shows. This is going to help so many people. I've been watching your shows for years now and there isn't one that I haven't enjoyed. I pray for the best for you and your family. May you stay strong in your sobriety. You deserve it!!!
There's literally 0 excuse of going with a stranger to his home in the SAME train station where 20 other women have gone missing recently!!!
Mr Ballen makes my skin crawl with these stories. It makes being alone in your house to feeling like something or someone is there with you, lurking in the basement or ready to strike in the dark. These stories are crafted to send chills up our spine and to make your hairs stand up on end and are guaranteed to give you a fright. By far the best youtuber for horror content.
John, thank you for your openness, it can't be easy to be so transparent. You're an inspiration, my friend.
Please don’t ever stop sharing these stories with us MrBallen! You’re my absolute favorite story teller!!
You have become my new favorite since I found you. Exactly what I have been looking for. It’s funny I’m going thru depression but these stories are a great escape from reality.
Been listening to Mr Ballen for a few years now. I’m currently in a treatment center right now and working on my sobriety from drugs and alcohol. Good job to you. One day at a time.
One day at a time indeed. Best of luck to you ❤
Good job. You got this!! ❤
Congratulations for working on getting sober! It's such a huge step to even admit and begin treating any disorders, specially the ones that mess with our minds such as addiction does.
Keep the great job in taking care of your mental and physical health! I feel like we are some sort of community, as we all enjoy listening to Mr Ballen, so I hope you believe when I say you are not alone, you got this, and we're collectively so proud of each one of us that's looking for help and treatment. You got this!
Good job to you as well. I had to go to rehab twice before I could stop drinking. My advice is just surrender to the program and just do what they tell you to do. My best thinking got me drunk, homeless and jobless. I had to let others tell me what to do for a while.
Good luck and take care xx
My my moms dad, and both of my dads parents were alcoholics. So are all my dads siblings, and my moms brother. They were all around the same age as my parents, and less than half of them are still alive. Whether it was from liver failure, car accidents while impaired, or alcohol poisoning, they were gone before 40.
Thank you very much for taking the steps you needed to in order to be there for your family the way you should be. There are lots of additional support systems for people struggling with alcohol all over the country, and if you ever need to, please reach out to them.
We've never met, but I'm proud of you for being strong enough to ask for help. And you should be proud of yourself too.
Have a good day man, and thank you for your service
I'm going the same way as my family.i tried,NOT easy
As a recovered(ing) addict, now* father, engineer, believer, husband, etc. I can really appreciate your honesty and openness.
Boy your recovery from a lot 😉 don’t ever stop being a believer
@@catherinepraus8635 thank you 🙏 god bless
I'm also a recovering husband, it's something over time you get used to.
the betterhelp ad in this... such a brave and impactful thing to discuss with us. thanks mr b and i hope sobriety is treating you well!
Congrats on your 3 weeks of sobriety! You are such a light in so many people's lives. You made a brave decision. And, although it won’t always be easy, it’s evident you have the strength to do what it takes & persevere.
😯🫶🏽
I’m a struggling drug addict and to hear you to say this publicly is so heartwarming.
So sorry to hear that! Hope you get better!
Coming from a fellow active addict, I know it’s hard, I know it’s the hardest thing you’ve ever tried to do but you and I will beat this, If you’re like me and burned all your bridges in addiction, then I still believe in you and you can do this and you deserve it
If it's opiates I suggest the methadone clinic .... Gives you a lot of time to really put things into perspective without being sick with withdrawal... Changes your mind from active addiction back to a bit of normalacy then slowly weens you off without having to be super sick.
Brave of you to tell your own story about your addiction struggles! We wish you the best, man.
John I'm so glad to hear you are sober, congratulations. Recovery is a wonderful thing that can bring great healing, no matter what you are struggling with.
Thank you for sharing about your sobriety it may encourage someone else.
God bless
Bro, that story gave me chills specially the way you told it
I like how MrBallen doesn’t try to hard to sound creepy when he tells these stories like other scary story telling UA-camrs and he actually makes you visualize the story without overdoing it
He doesn’t really tell scary stories tho, they’re mostly true crime stories
This isn’t about the story. I just wanted to congratulate you on your recent sobriety! I have 9 years clean myself and I can tell you, sobriety brings so much clarity and happiness, you’ll feel amazing ❤
thank you!! And congrats on 9 years of sobriety!
That’s quite an accomplishment! 👏👏👏👏👏
@@MrBallen thank you!
@@corneliusdinkmeyer2190 thank you!
Damn 9 years is too much dedication
Well done! The reward for this dedication is ur healthy life 😊
God bless you, Mr. B, in your fight. Stay strong, and all the best to you and your family.
Mr. Allen,
Thank you so very much for being open about your struggles with mental health and addiction. Hearing someone you admire and enjoy listening to, freely speaking about real struggles so many people go through, makes such a difference. You transparency makes your story telling so much more real for me.
From one Vet to another, keep your head up man. Im going to be praying for you. Im also a recovering alcoholic who fights with PTSD!!! Love you Ballen!!!
It's taken my life mate, same twatting four letters as you mate. You winning ever?
@@GoatGoggles not sure what your asking..
From someone who has struggled with addiction, I want to applause you for vocalizing your sutruggles and normalizing living a life of recovery and sobriety! Life does not get better until YOU do something about it and decide to change and everyone who has ever struggled can achieve whatever they set their mind too, most of us need help along the way and thats okay! Thank you for being open and sharing, especially on the internet where there is so much judgment. Congrats on your sobriety and dont let anyone diminish your accomplishment! I wish you nothing but the best!
Sobriety is one of the few things no one can take from you. We are the only ones who can take it from us