I can literally 100% relate! Life has been kicking my arse the past couple of years, mental and physical. Been running for way too long, the chaos got to me and I had to take a few steps back. Burning out on the things I love and being easily overwhelmed by everything was a big sign that I could've read clearly if I took a couple of steps back earlier 😅. I'm getting better, slowly but it's progress in the right direction. Living by the rules of the Window of Tolerance has helped me. (Oh yeah, I've been diagnosed with ADD) (Ps, now you know why you enjoyed your coffee, kept you focused on one thing 😉).
I was diagnosed with ADHD at age 44 when I lost all support in my business and at home simultaneously, resulting in complete chaos. 🤪 The meds didn’t work that well for me, but I did slim down nicely. 😊 Maybe I’ll try them again since I have greatly simplified my life. Glad you are doing better! 🙏
I have just been through the process of having 2 of my children diagnosed with ADHD and I have finally realised, at the age of 46, I have been battling with it my whole life. I am now in the early stages of getting diagnosed and so much of what you said rang true. Thanks for your openness and honesty - it is, unfortunately, a rarity, but I very much appreciate it, as I'm sure other do to. Thanks Ben
Ben - so glad you were diagnosed and are being treated for the ADHD. I'm 60 and was diagnosed as being "hyperactive" when I was about 7. Little did I know that yes, that IS ADHD. Fortunately, I developed coping mechanisms. When my son seemed to be mirroring my habits, he was tested and yes - he suffers from ADHD...and is being successfully treated. It's amazing how your life changes when you finally get this sorted. Sending good vibes your way...
I used to watch your videos religiously about 10 years ago when i was deep in my luthiery hyperfixation. I got my adhd diagnosis around then. I've only managed to build 3 guitars so far and now I funnily enough work as a welder, a lot of us in the workshop are neurodivergent. I do not function well at all without meds and getting diagnosed made such a huge difference for me. It genuinely makes me so so happy when fellow neurodivergents, especially ones I've looked up to for so long like yourself, find out how they work, get diagnosed if possible and can start to feel better and more comfortable. First time i took adhd meds i did a big task i had been putting off for months.. just like that.. i just did it.. only took a few hours. before meds that was near impossible for me. Feeling very emotional about this and adhd and english being my second language makes writing hard. much love and thank you for sharing.
I have to thank you SO MUCH for the 'i broke myself' video, only thanks to that I discovered I might have ADHD and went to a psychiatrist to get confirmation. After 2 weeks of medication my life quality has changed so much. And it's just because as a classical guitar builder I follow your videos. Big big thank you from Madrid
Yeah, a few years ago I was diagnosed as autistic and having ADHD at the age of 60. It blighted a lot of my life and if diagnosed sooner I could have got help to deal with it in far better ways. I am making genuine progress now with appropriate help. I could not get that help until the problem was correctly diagnosed, so I 100% support your suggestion. If you might need it, look for help, it is out there.
Something that might help anyone, but also you Ben, is this simple rule in live for my surrounding: I must always to be able to see the whole floor. This simply means: Clean up! Either mentally and physically. It clears your mind and brings the quiet... Don't forget though to have fun, always!
Damnit, looks like i need to get tested. Uncanny description of me, upto and including the fear of losing the 'good' bits. Thanks for being so genuine ben
Dude… a lot of this is hitting me HARD. Type 2 diabetic, l learning mid life I have ADHD, it’s helped me understand a lot of my struggles. It’s also made me sad for my inner child, because man did that kid struggle in school and later into early adulthood. It’s been hard to focus on getting treatment and tackling it head on because we wound up homeless and living in a motorhome 6 months ago, so managing a Canadian winter in this rig has taken ALL our attention. But I’m really moved by your happiness and testament to your success with treatment. I’m gonna focus this thing down, I’m gonna make this happen. Thanks Ben
As someone diagnosed with ADHD this year, I feel this. And I'm glad you are talking about it. The 'grief' of the past is a very common thing. One of the hardest things about late diagnosis ADHD is feeling like you could have been so much more, but you weren't capable, or other people didn't think you were capable. There is a mourning of lost potential that is very real.
Aaaaaargh! Ben has convinced me to go and get a diagnosis. For some reason i haven't really listened to my family, friends, acquaintances or random people who say I definitely have adhd.
This hits so hard. I've reached a point where the misery isn't even overwhelming anymore, i'm just shut down. I've long since have given up thinking about doing anything creative, just literally waking up to go to work to come home and go to bed, buying a £100 second hand Opeth vinyl for the buzz, which I'll file away and not listen too, feeling useless, feeling unwanted, sure i'm a problem at work, sure i'm a problem to my family and friends - so I cut them off, I stopped socialising, stopped reaching out to people. I've long thought it might not be depression, last time I tried to get an appointment to even broach the idea it might be something else, but they let me down and I just accepted that I'd be a bother to some doctor for them to see me. Anyway, I've only met you in person once (came to you with some gnarly looking acrylic for scratch plate material and plectrums) and you came across as a wonderful soul, so I hope things get better and better for you.
Hi Ben, I was told I had ADHD and it ticked a lot of the boxes.... But not all... After some time the ritalin made life much much worse.... I eventually found out i suffered with C-PTSD. Ticked all the boxes. Just putting out there for anyone who thinks getting a diagnosis is the be all and end all....
Thanks for sharing this Ben. Not knowing what you have or how one works is challenging. I was nice to hear some of my thoughts reflected in your video and to see that you're on a good path.
Hi Ben, thank you for sharing this, it struck a huge Wagnerian chord with me. I'm 49 and have been struggling with the symptoms of ADHD since I was 17. I thought I was depressed - I had low moods but knew it was only part of the picture. I was mis-diagnosed with Bipolar II and lost my first career (Dentistry) as a result as I was in no state to sit finals or complete clinical work. The mood meds didn't really help (surprise!) but getting out of a hugely stressful situation did. I retrained in IT which is something I can do without having to concentrate on one thing for extended periods. If I don't have the energy for face-to-face interaction I can avoid it. However, like you, it had never occurred to me that I might have ADHD and been misdiagnosed. I'm 49 and only now exploring this. Really glad to see and hear that you're improving and hope you and Crimson keep going from strength to strength. I have a fair few of your luthier tools and they're magical.
Know what, people talking about this make it less of a taboo subject and makes others feel at ease opening up also, hats off to you Ben. Always put your health and well being first, everything else will fall in place behind it mate. Take care 🙏🏻
Adhd mixed with depression is very hard to deal with on a day to day basis. I have been making attenpts to capture that high and buzz you talk about and bounce between so many ideas. I have yet to get that help but today i plan to talk to my doctor when i go in for my appointment about my blood pressure. Thank you Ben for you support and i look forward to seeing what comes of this for both of us!
As your business has been growing, you've been adding more things. More tooling, expansion, etc. Shop locations... Eventually, after so many things, you CAN'T multitask like you could before. You just can't. There's too many things to be going on, which breaks your momentum. A lot more than before, no doubt. It's only natural to not be able to keep up with EVERYTHING, all at once, anymore. Breaks your vision for what you're building at the moment, when you're trying to do 4,000 things. Totally understand. Don't sweat it. We are here for a fleeting moment. Enjoy the joyous parts of life.. The worthwhile moments. And love to the family, Ben.
I was diagnosed with ADHD when I was 25 or so, 15 years ago. Just having the diagnosis helped me immensely. I was on medication for a while, but I noticed that over time, it had sapped my ability to be happy a bit. I also wasn't as sad as I used to be at times, and I was more productive, but I decided to go off of them eventually. What I learned was meds are great for some, but not for others, and I was better coping in other ways. It's still something I have to be aware of and try to work with literally every day, but things are pretty great now. The world in a lot of ways isn't set up particularly well for people with ADHD, but with proper diagnosis and some time spent learning how to handle things (and medication for those who it works for), you can do well.
I've met Ben at the last two guitar shows in Birmingham ( England) I must say I was concerned about what I was watching on u tube before the 2024 show. but the man was so brilliant towards everybody he spoke to including me, he gave me a hug and was interested in the guitars I own. Can't wait till next years show. If you get a chance to meet Ben I would say you will never meet another man like him. Give Ben your support.
Man you're second person I watch who has recently brought this up and you both got diagnosed with ADHD and treated and both talk about how huge the improvement can be in so many aspects of your lives. When you guys talk about symptoms it seems like it maps onto my life and the way I am so perfectly. I'm mostly terrified that I'm getting my hopes up, only to get checked out and they say I'm fine, and it's really just me being incredibly lazy and scatterbrained lol. I too feel very lethargic getting up in the morning, I get obsessed with things I want to do. I have so many unfinished ideas and projects. I eat way too much and gain weight very easily because of it. etc etc etc. I'm so happy for you getting better and the improvement you've gotten from treatment! I hope I'm lucky enough to see similar results if I'm diagnosed with anything.
I have only casually watched your channel and probably only recently in last year or 2. Ben: your insight to ADHD/ADD has me pondering mine. Thanks for this video. I am going to think deeper about all of this. I too am a collector and love the dopamine hit. As soon as I reduce a collection, I tend to go back out and find a new trinket(s) to fill that void. You got me thinking. Thanks again.
I have to admit, regretfully, that I have not watched your channel in a while (sorry...) but now that I see you after some time, I can say that you look very good. I'm glad you are happy with the positive turn in your life.
You are a legend and have inspired me to put myself forward for testing and follow through with it - those closest to me have always said I should but ive lways laughed and put their advice aside
Thanks for sharing your journey Ben 🙏 I've had some "brain troubles" myself, but I'm also in a place of gratitude now 👍 Was great to meet you at the show 😃👍 I was the guy in the pic who is "the total opposite" of you 😜 I've not yet sourced a blowtorch for removing a poly finish,but will be my first thought if I ever attempt it again. Cheers again bro 👊
The implications of understanding have changed my life. My buying habbits in particular have subsided. Not bought any mad overwhelming projects since the 6wd gun tractor 😂
I’m glad you’re in a better place. Speaking as someone with years of first hand experience of close family on adhd medication, these medicines are pretty powerful and have serious side effects for a lot of people that can have serious consequences. It’s up to the individual to decide if they outweigh the benefits.
No regrets mate ... we all do that ... We all have the best intentions and get amped up in the moment! ... Your energy motivates a lot of us that are no where near as motivated as you are. Sorry about you personal situation ... its not uncommon at this stage of life ... Life gets a bit weird and difficult as you get older .. Keep doing what you're doing!!
Ridiculously glad to hear you're doing very well, Ben. Correct diagnosis & medication is KEY to getting on top of whatever's going on with ones health; mental and physical. Back in January I had meself a heart attack (on the one month anniversary of my 49th birthday, which was the same day as my daughter's 23rd birthday). Hitting major potholes in ones health like that can be great for putting everything into perspective. Having often watched the Force of Nature that has been your online Life and been both in awe of, and concerned about the ferocious flurry of fervor you put out into the Universe, I'm delighted you're finding some peace, calm & focus inside that big, beautiful work of art that sits on top of your shoulders 😁 Much Procrastination and Laziness (in moderation, I s'pose...) Steve.
Ben, thanks for the video, bravo to standing (sitting…) naked and opening up about your challenges (challenges are opportunities). I think that many see people on the net/movies/tv etc and see them as successful and pure, while the rest of us are damaged and not worthy of success (judge success by whatever means you think apply…). Apparently, you, like the rest of us are human and that is refreshing and makes us realize that we are actually ok. What you do, you do well, what I do, I do well, but I don’t do what you do and should not judge myself by an artificial standard that my brain has created. Sometimes being human is a lot tougher than we realize. Looking forward to more videos, guitar themed and otherwise…
Big respect to you Ben and your honesty, I'm sure you words and advice will help and inspire others to get their health checked if they feel they need to. I saw you at the Guitar show chatting with Carina Powell in the smoking hut, I didn't want to intrude so I left you guys to it. Good luck on your journey of recovery bro and I'll catch up with you at the next Guitar Show in Shirley. Be strong buddy
Thanks for sharing. I recently was diagnosed with diabetes type 2 and realised a couple of months ago that I most likely have ADHD, and your mentioning of your use of food really struck a chord with me. I wish I had the funds needed for a diagnose. Just the realisation that I most likely have ADHD helps a bit though. I now understand why I react the way I do to certain things and why have so much struggle doing certain things.
Damn this hit deeper than I thought it could... I got my ADHD diagnosis last spring, but couldn't get any treatment yet. This is really giving me hope that things can get easier. Thank you Ben.
It took me 18 months, due to the mass shortages they are only really titrating the most severe cases however it looks like the main 2 treatments are finally starting to come up to the usable levels you'll likely hear about more people starting titration from May and hopefully you'll be one of them.
Good gravy! Seeing Dave Simpson holding "The Complication" is a sight I didn't know I needed until now. Connection / interaction between two of my favourite (and two of the absolute "nicest" and most genuine) guitar-related people on the internet in the same place at the same time! Thank you so much for sharing this (and being so open and genuine), Ben. You have made me seriously consider getting checked out, since I have recently been exhibiting most of the symptoms you have mentioned, some of them for most of my life... (and am of the same generation - and grew up in SA, so have possibly the same history of lack of thinking about mental health issues like this).
I was in a very low place then covid hit... found your Vids... decided to strip and fix my Guitar myself, bike spanner by trade.. with your vids and ebay and your shop.. I stripped cleaned and rebuilt my Squire super Strat.. bought some cheap strat bodies and necks.. and sat down with you on a daliy basis to learn.. THANK You so much... Takes Ball to make a vid like this ... We Love you dude.... :) glad to see you back, up and running.... Peace N Love.. Davey P.... Uk..... big hug.. :)
Keep rockin' it Ben! You'll get there; just do yourself and keep working on what keeps you creative. Watching what you do and doing what you love is what makes watching your creativity even more inspiring. in the end our children become our rudder in our lives. I'm so glad that you embraced the words of your nine-year-old then; good on you.😉
Your openness about your ADHD diagnosis was a trigger for me to go an do the same and surprise I also discovered I have ADHD at 35 and treatment and medication has been life changing. Like yourself my multitasking ability has become much worse and I still have the thousand tabs of ideas open but I can actually pick and choose what I want to think about.
My story is very similar to yours. I didn't get my diagnosis until I turned 40 last year. One day I got this text message from a good friend saying, "Dude, this is pretty much you," with an attached video of a psychiatrist doing a clinical overview of ADHD. I was like, holy shit, that IS me. All of a sudden, a lot of the challenges I've had in the past, especially with academics and being constantly bored and depressed at work, made a lot of sense. Even with treatment, I still have occasional bouts of racing thoughts and flurries of ideas, but I have an easier time prioritizing tasks and getting things done. The weight loss thing is really interesting, isn't it? I'm about 15 pounds lighter than I was when I started meds. Sometimes I only know when I'm hungry when I feel particularly irritable, which my wife is very good at identifying. Glad things are going well for you!
Hey Ben, I am really glad to hear you are doing so much better!! I have been going through a lot of the same things myself, but with far more medical issues. A couple cancer scares, type 2 diabetes (also from using food as a coping mechanism), covid times 3, prostate issues, back problems, nerve damage to my left hand, and recently some undiagnosed issue with my hip that prevents me from doing much of anything. Super crappy 💩
I wish you all the very best in your recovery to a normal life. I love the videos and in fact you and your personality. Stay well . Cheers from British Columbia, Canada
I'm 82 years old and I can tell you it's good to take a good look at where your at in all aspects of your life on a regular basis. In every examination of your life just remember, "To thine own self be true." Taking care of yourself mentaly and physically, is being true to yourself.
Thanks for sharing and providing truly GREAT and much needed advice! Within those 20 minutes I have come to realize something, some truth, about me! Thanks much, Ben.
"If you even have the smallest incling that this might apply to you, do it!" I wholeheartedly agree! I suffered under what I THOUGHT was 'situational' depression for decades. Then, when the 'situation' aspect just didn't hold water (i.e. I was want for *nothing* at all), I finally got help. That gloomy cloud that surrounded me everyday, the lack of any motivation to get out of bed in the morning, all is now a distant nightmare. I strongly suggest seeking help, even if...or *espeicially* if you think your mental state is 'situational'.
Diagnoses can be such a revelation Ben, I was in my mid 50s when I discovered that I was autistic. Suddenly, half a century of life became understandable to me. So much stuff makes sense to me me, and my friends and family are able to help and put things into perspective. Everything is better now. Enjoy your life, family and business, and keep up the good work!
I am going through the same things Ben. I am 52 years old and was just finally diagnosed with ADHD last year. It is hard not to be mad about time you have lost. You have accomplished so much. Dont be hard on yourself for the past, just go forward with your new purpose. You are killing it brother.
Maybe I will go back to my Doctor and try going back on meds. I too have ADHD, it was very severe as a child, but I always refused to stay on meds. Thanks for sharing, you have given me something to think about. BTW, you look great and very happy to hear you are indeed well.
As someone who is on a seemingly ever growing waiting list for ADHD diagnosis (with the aim to become medicated), it's inspiring to hear how much it has improved your life. I can only hope that my journey can take me as far as it's taken you. Thank you for making this video and shining a light on this. You've been an inspiration to me for a long time, and I wish you all the best for the future!
As someone with ADHD I get this completely. I haven't been on medication for probably 25 years or so, but I can see how much it would actually help in my life at some point again. I'm glad for you that this has been a positive change in your life.
This makes so much sense to me. I asked for an assessment, what i got from the GP was a questionnaire and a lot of eye rolling. It's as though this 42 year old was just looking for excuses for the mess he got himself. I haven't heard anything back. It was a few months ago. We'll see i guess
Ben!! Touch wood? Knock on wood is what we say over hear in the u.s. I'm happy to see our favorite builder make self improvement gives us even more reason to love your Content and this definitely is food for thought
On the last video (the making of the solid MOP nut), I just thought your beard looked better than ever. Never once assumed you were sick. Good talk. Glad you are well.
Love your channel, what you do, who you are, how you conduct yourself and now, how you are caring for yourself!!! You are number one priority with your family!! Be well! We will be here whenever!!
I am a clinical social worker working in a very busy emergency department, so mental health is one of my main practice areas. Even then, these things can sneak up on you. One of my coworkers has had a diagnosis of ADHD for quite some time, and, boy, their symptoms sure sounded familiar. The big thing that got me was caffeine. I made a passing comment about how I sometimes sleep better with caffeine in me, which I'd never really thought about, and they pointed out that this is a strong indicator of a dopamine deficiency. I've spent my life as a pretty high achiever, and I can prioritize pretty well, usually, when I FORCE it. I have to fight myself all the way to the end, and then I have to make up little rewards for myself. I guess that I have had the benefit of being stubborn. But I think that a lot of my history and a lot of my symptoms line up pretty closely with several key symptoms of ADHD, and I've made a goal of getting seen by my PCP and assessed at some point this year. If I'm being honest, life has burned me out pretty hardcore even though I appreciate and enjoy most of it. I'm glad you're talking about this. I appreciate your being up front and real with us.
I gotta say..when i am feeling really really like s@#t, i smoke my pipe and watch your timed builds!! Those 3 series were always making my day brighter!!!! Lots of love from Greece!
Know where you're coming from. I was diagnosed with ADD back in 1990. To this day, I have to catch myself whenever someone needs help with something, because I say, "Oh, yeah... I can do that." And then it takes me forever to follow through. (The pain is real) Glad to hear you and your kids are supporting each other through the divorce. Strong family bonds can do so much for you. Keep it going, brother. Life is supposed to get better as you go, and it sounds like you are on the path.
Just my opinion, as someone who has watched your videos for many years, I don't think there is anything wrong with you. Sometimes life just kicks your ass for a while. Lots of people are going through similar things and it seems to be a sign of the current times. Be kind to yourself and find happiness where you can.
thank you Ben, that was truely, truthful, honest and brave, very inspiring and tottally relatable, i have recently taken an online test and have identified i also potentially have ADHD, i always knew i was different! some of the behaviours you shared are me 100%!!! I now feel i need to pursue the path. thanks again. George
Just like you Ben,I’m in the position where I work 5 days a week,6am till 2pm but I’m up at 10 past 4 in the morning,I’ve a 14 year old son who plays football so I’m out most nights with him,Honestly,Since round about Christmas just gone by I’m physically drained,I very rarely eat as well,I get by on a lot of cups of coffee,I’m sore all over,Hands are full of wee cuts and nicks from the weather,Back constantly hurts,And what makes it worse is you can’t get time to recover,Saturdays and Sundays the only days I get off are spent lying on the couch,I don’t think I’m depressed,I’ve just learned to get on with it,Hopefully when the lighter mornings come in that will help,Take care big guy,I absolutely love your channel,Been watching for years👍👍👍
ok your ending has made my comment a 2 Parter lol. I feel like I have known Ben Crowe the guitar builder, media personality , ect. for some time now. I now feel like I have meet Ben Crowe the man and I like and respect you even more now. thanks .
Great to hear that everything seems to be heading in the right direction for you Ben and I think the weight loss looks good on you. Go grab that future 😃
Hi Ben I am a massive fan of yours all the way back to your garden shed you are an unbelievable talent man which is why I've stayed watching all these years.i suffer from mental illness but every time you release a new build video it makes me and I'm sure so many other on here very happy.of course your family are no.1 but business wise i would focus solely on what you do best and that your guitars its why most of us watch keep your head up and we can't wait to see what you do next
Best wishes Ben. Life sometimes has a way of catching up with you, but you wouldn't be the person you are without it all. We're all truly thankful for your presence here.
Hi I can totally empathise with where you are and have been as I have been on the same journey for such a long time I am currently in a very similar position as yourself except its with burnout and depression but as you have said about yourself is it something else, this has helped me so much and I will be chatting to my gp about this, your video has helped me so much
Dear Ben. I fully feel with you. I have been viewing your channel for 10 yrs, and I could not fail to notice the changes you have gone through. So good that you got diagnosed and are receiving treatment. Hopefully early enough to restore you to the power and conviction to change what you need to change, so that you regain control over your life. Not easy, but you will probably need to cut some loose ends and focus on your prime talents. And those are far more than just being a creative luthier and awesome woodworker, but you yourself are obviously a friendly, honest, humble and kind person that radiates these qualities of mankind in an infectious way. You are truly authentic and that is a superpower. Good luck and progress, you owe it to yourself.
See about getting a volunteer to manage the Guitar Museum and step WAAY back? Find a tool enthusiast to manage the tool shop? Or go ahead and sell out or sell off everything and get out from under? Thanks for the rundown on symptoms. Gives me more to ask my doctor about. I was raised in a household that never talked about anything. For me that used to include doctors. Whatever you do Ben, we support you and are praying for you. In some famous words,,, Perspective and Lucidity! Make Some Sawdust!!
Hello Ben, I don't know if you remember me, but I turned up for a factory tour about 8 years ago, I was wearing a velvet patchwork waistcoat that everyone wanted. So sad to hear about your divorce, but I'm so glad that your children are ok with the situation. From one person to another with mental health problems, please take care, my friend. Take care and take time.
Sending my love dude. I’m going through something similar myself. It’s shit but also incrementally positive. It’s a hard journey but a worthwhile one. Solidarity brother.
Really pleased to see that you are now getting treatment for your problems. You do look a lot healthier than before. Keep going Ben, you know we all have your back as it were.
Hey Ben, very glad to hear that you're getting sorted. As a fellow survivor of appalling mental health problems for more than 40 years, I feel your pain. However, I also feel your joy, and that's worth more than anything. Love and respect, my friend.
Ben just build fabuleus guitars and video it as good as you can and be happy, I was told 3 years ago i have 2 hernias, i tought my life ended, dont look at what you cant look at what you can do. And enjoy that ❤🎸😎
Hey Ben! I was one of the people who had the pleasure of meeting you at the guitar show, but i think i said you looked well rather than ill 😋 Thank you for being so open about these things, i’m sure it will help a good number of people, and the more we talk about it the less it’s stigmatised!! I hope everything keeps getting better in your world. 💪🏻
Ben, I've been following you since the times of the build a guitar in x amount of time, I've seen your path and I'm a guitar builder, string instruments builder myself, I have ADHD too and I have to tell you, you are so amazing, I always admired your chaotic way to work, but now I also love the path that I see you're taking, please do what's best for yourself, you are a great inspiration for all of your followers, we'll still support you and admire you
All the best Ben. One thing I recently discovered is my vitamin B1 deficiency messed my life up for years. I have a supplement and its like having speed. Read a lot recently about fat soluble B1 Benfotiamine and it helping with Diabetes worth reading up on.
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I can literally 100% relate!
Life has been kicking my arse the past couple of years, mental and physical.
Been running for way too long, the chaos got to me and I had to take a few steps back.
Burning out on the things I love and being easily overwhelmed by everything was a big sign that I could've read clearly if I took a couple of steps back earlier 😅.
I'm getting better, slowly but it's progress in the right direction.
Living by the rules of the Window of Tolerance has helped me.
(Oh yeah, I've been diagnosed with ADD)
(Ps, now you know why you enjoyed your coffee, kept you focused on one thing 😉).
Thanks for sharing. There are others out there that will appreciate knowing they aren't alone. Best wishes on your continued journey!
Thank you so much!
I was diagnosed with ADHD at age 44 when I lost all support in my business and at home simultaneously, resulting in complete chaos. 🤪 The meds didn’t work that well for me, but I did slim down nicely. 😊 Maybe I’ll try them again since I have greatly simplified my life. Glad you are doing better! 🙏
I have just been through the process of having 2 of my children diagnosed with ADHD and I have finally realised, at the age of 46, I have been battling with it my whole life. I am now in the early stages of getting diagnosed and so much of what you said rang true. Thanks for your openness and honesty - it is, unfortunately, a rarity, but I very much appreciate it, as I'm sure other do to. Thanks Ben
This is great news Ben! Thank you for being so honest and giving us insight to your life! If you weren’t here, one would have to invent you ❤
Ben - so glad you were diagnosed and are being treated for the ADHD. I'm 60 and was diagnosed as being "hyperactive" when I was about 7. Little did I know that yes, that IS ADHD. Fortunately, I developed coping mechanisms. When my son seemed to be mirroring my habits, he was tested and yes - he suffers from ADHD...and is being successfully treated. It's amazing how your life changes when you finally get this sorted. Sending good vibes your way...
I used to watch your videos religiously about 10 years ago when i was deep in my luthiery hyperfixation. I got my adhd diagnosis around then. I've only managed to build 3 guitars so far and now I funnily enough work as a welder, a lot of us in the workshop are neurodivergent. I do not function well at all without meds and getting diagnosed made such a huge difference for me.
It genuinely makes me so so happy when fellow neurodivergents, especially ones I've looked up to for so long like yourself, find out how they work, get diagnosed if possible and can start to feel better and more comfortable.
First time i took adhd meds i did a big task i had been putting off for months.. just like that.. i just did it.. only took a few hours. before meds that was near impossible for me.
Feeling very emotional about this and adhd and english being my second language makes writing hard.
much love and thank you for sharing.
I have to thank you SO MUCH for the 'i broke myself' video, only thanks to that I discovered I might have ADHD and went to a psychiatrist to get confirmation. After 2 weeks of medication my life quality has changed so much. And it's just because as a classical guitar builder I follow your videos. Big big thank you from Madrid
Yeah, a few years ago I was diagnosed as autistic and having ADHD at the age of 60. It blighted a lot of my life and if diagnosed sooner I could have got help to deal with it in far better ways. I am making genuine progress now with appropriate help. I could not get that help until the problem was correctly diagnosed, so I 100% support your suggestion. If you might need it, look for help, it is out there.
Something that might help anyone, but also you Ben, is this simple rule in live for my surrounding: I must always to be able to see the whole floor. This simply means: Clean up! Either mentally and physically. It clears your mind and brings the quiet... Don't forget though to have fun, always!
Damnit, looks like i need to get tested. Uncanny description of me, upto and including the fear of losing the 'good' bits. Thanks for being so genuine ben
Dude… a lot of this is hitting me HARD.
Type 2 diabetic, l learning mid life I have ADHD, it’s helped me understand a lot of my struggles. It’s also made me sad for my inner child, because man did that kid struggle in school and later into early adulthood. It’s been hard to focus on getting treatment and tackling it head on because we wound up homeless and living in a motorhome 6 months ago, so managing a Canadian winter in this rig has taken ALL our attention. But I’m really moved by your happiness and testament to your success with treatment. I’m gonna focus this thing down, I’m gonna make this happen.
Thanks Ben
As someone diagnosed with ADHD this year, I feel this. And I'm glad you are talking about it.
The 'grief' of the past is a very common thing. One of the hardest things about late diagnosis ADHD is feeling like you could have been so much more, but you weren't capable, or other people didn't think you were capable. There is a mourning of lost potential that is very real.
Totally agree, and remember it can be a cycle you go round several times, so be ready if it sneaks round again.
Take care.
Aaaaaargh! Ben has convinced me to go and get a diagnosis. For some reason i haven't really listened to my family, friends, acquaintances or random people who say I definitely have adhd.
This hits so hard. I've reached a point where the misery isn't even overwhelming anymore, i'm just shut down. I've long since have given up thinking about doing anything creative, just literally waking up to go to work to come home and go to bed, buying a £100 second hand Opeth vinyl for the buzz, which I'll file away and not listen too, feeling useless, feeling unwanted, sure i'm a problem at work, sure i'm a problem to my family and friends - so I cut them off, I stopped socialising, stopped reaching out to people. I've long thought it might not be depression, last time I tried to get an appointment to even broach the idea it might be something else, but they let me down and I just accepted that I'd be a bother to some doctor for them to see me.
Anyway, I've only met you in person once (came to you with some gnarly looking acrylic for scratch plate material and plectrums) and you came across as a wonderful soul, so I hope things get better and better for you.
Hi Ben, I was told I had ADHD and it ticked a lot of the boxes.... But not all... After some time the ritalin made life much much worse.... I eventually found out i suffered with C-PTSD. Ticked all the boxes. Just putting out there for anyone who thinks getting a diagnosis is the be all and end all....
"Know Thyself" Best advice of all. The hardest thing to do in this life is to face yourself.
Thanks for sharing this Ben. Not knowing what you have or how one works is challenging. I was nice to hear some of my thoughts reflected in your video and to see that you're on a good path.
Hi Ben, thank you for sharing this, it struck a huge Wagnerian chord with me. I'm 49 and have been struggling with the symptoms of ADHD since I was 17. I thought I was depressed - I had low moods but knew it was only part of the picture. I was mis-diagnosed with Bipolar II and lost my first career (Dentistry) as a result as I was in no state to sit finals or complete clinical work. The mood meds didn't really help (surprise!) but getting out of a hugely stressful situation did. I retrained in IT which is something I can do without having to concentrate on one thing for extended periods. If I don't have the energy for face-to-face interaction I can avoid it. However, like you, it had never occurred to me that I might have ADHD and been misdiagnosed. I'm 49 and only now exploring this. Really glad to see and hear that you're improving and hope you and Crimson keep going from strength to strength. I have a fair few of your luthier tools and they're magical.
Know what, people talking about this make it less of a taboo subject and makes others feel at ease opening up also, hats off to you Ben. Always put your health and well being first, everything else will fall in place behind it mate. Take care 🙏🏻
Adhd mixed with depression is very hard to deal with on a day to day basis. I have been making attenpts to capture that high and buzz you talk about and bounce between so many ideas. I have yet to get that help but today i plan to talk to my doctor when i go in for my appointment about my blood pressure. Thank you Ben for you support and i look forward to seeing what comes of this for both of us!
As your business has been growing, you've been adding more things. More tooling, expansion, etc. Shop locations...
Eventually, after so many things, you CAN'T multitask like you could before. You just can't.
There's too many things to be going on, which breaks your momentum. A lot more than before, no doubt. It's only natural to not be able to keep up with EVERYTHING, all at once, anymore.
Breaks your vision for what you're building at the moment, when you're trying to do 4,000 things.
Totally understand.
Don't sweat it.
We are here for a fleeting moment. Enjoy the joyous parts of life.. The worthwhile moments.
And love to the family, Ben.
I was diagnosed with ADHD when I was 25 or so, 15 years ago. Just having the diagnosis helped me immensely. I was on medication for a while, but I noticed that over time, it had sapped my ability to be happy a bit. I also wasn't as sad as I used to be at times, and I was more productive, but I decided to go off of them eventually. What I learned was meds are great for some, but not for others, and I was better coping in other ways. It's still something I have to be aware of and try to work with literally every day, but things are pretty great now.
The world in a lot of ways isn't set up particularly well for people with ADHD, but with proper diagnosis and some time spent learning how to handle things (and medication for those who it works for), you can do well.
I've met Ben at the last two guitar shows in Birmingham ( England) I must say I was concerned about what I was watching on u tube before the 2024 show.
but the man was so brilliant towards everybody he spoke to including me, he gave me a hug and was interested in the guitars I own.
Can't wait till next years show.
If you get a chance to meet Ben I would say you will never meet another man like him.
Give Ben your support.
So happy to hear the kids are doing well - and yourself too!
Yeah , my first marriage was a bit like that. This one is fantastic.
Man you're second person I watch who has recently brought this up and you both got diagnosed with ADHD and treated and both talk about how huge the improvement can be in so many aspects of your lives. When you guys talk about symptoms it seems like it maps onto my life and the way I am so perfectly. I'm mostly terrified that I'm getting my hopes up, only to get checked out and they say I'm fine, and it's really just me being incredibly lazy and scatterbrained lol. I too feel very lethargic getting up in the morning, I get obsessed with things I want to do. I have so many unfinished ideas and projects. I eat way too much and gain weight very easily because of it. etc etc etc. I'm so happy for you getting better and the improvement you've gotten from treatment! I hope I'm lucky enough to see similar results if I'm diagnosed with anything.
I have only casually watched your channel and probably only recently in last year or 2.
Ben: your insight to ADHD/ADD has me pondering mine. Thanks for this video.
I am going to think deeper about all of this. I too am a collector and love the dopamine hit. As soon as I reduce a collection, I tend to go back out and find a new trinket(s) to fill that void.
You got me thinking. Thanks again.
I have to admit, regretfully, that I have not watched your channel in a while (sorry...) but now that I see you after some time, I can say that you look very good. I'm glad you are happy with the positive turn in your life.
Life hasn't been kind to me since the virus and I can't find the will to go on anymore, thank you for sharing your story Ben
You are a legend and have inspired me to put myself forward for testing and follow through with it - those closest to me have always said I should but ive lways laughed and put their advice aside
Thanks for sharing your journey Ben 🙏
I've had some "brain troubles" myself, but I'm also in a place of gratitude now 👍
Was great to meet you at the show 😃👍
I was the guy in the pic who is "the total opposite" of you 😜
I've not yet sourced a blowtorch for removing a poly finish,but will be my first thought if I ever attempt it again.
Cheers again bro 👊
The implications of understanding have changed my life. My buying habbits in particular have subsided. Not bought any mad overwhelming projects since the 6wd gun tractor 😂
I’m glad you’re in a better place. Speaking as someone with years of first hand experience of close family on adhd medication, these medicines are pretty powerful and have serious side effects for a lot of people that can have serious consequences. It’s up to the individual to decide if they outweigh the benefits.
No regrets mate ... we all do that ... We all have the best intentions and get amped up in the moment! ... Your energy motivates a lot of us that are no where near as motivated as you are. Sorry about you personal situation ... its not uncommon at this stage of life ... Life gets a bit weird and difficult as you get older .. Keep doing what you're doing!!
Ridiculously glad to hear you're doing very well, Ben. Correct diagnosis & medication is KEY to getting on top of whatever's going on with ones health; mental and physical.
Back in January I had meself a heart attack (on the one month anniversary of my 49th birthday, which was the same day as my daughter's 23rd birthday).
Hitting major potholes in ones health like that can be great for putting everything into perspective.
Having often watched the Force of Nature that has been your online Life and been both in awe of, and concerned about the ferocious flurry of fervor you put out into the Universe, I'm delighted you're finding some peace, calm & focus inside that big, beautiful work of art that sits on top of your shoulders 😁
Much Procrastination and Laziness (in moderation, I s'pose...)
Steve.
Ben, thanks for the video, bravo to standing (sitting…) naked and opening up about your challenges (challenges are opportunities). I think that many see people on the net/movies/tv etc and see them as successful and pure, while the rest of us are damaged and not worthy of success (judge success by whatever means you think apply…). Apparently, you, like the rest of us are human and that is refreshing and makes us realize that we are actually ok. What you do, you do well, what I do, I do well, but I don’t do what you do and should not judge myself by an artificial standard that my brain has created. Sometimes being human is a lot tougher than we realize. Looking forward to more videos, guitar themed and otherwise…
Big respect to you Ben and your honesty, I'm sure you words and advice will help and inspire others to get their health checked if they feel they need to. I saw you at the Guitar show chatting with Carina Powell in the smoking hut, I didn't want to intrude so I left you guys to it. Good luck on your journey of recovery bro and I'll catch up with you at the next Guitar Show in Shirley. Be strong buddy
Thank you for your sincerity Ben. You will find wisdom and strength to be able to pick up some of the pieces (you can't have them all) and move on.
Thanks for sharing. I recently was diagnosed with diabetes type 2 and realised a couple of months ago that I most likely have ADHD, and your mentioning of your use of food really struck a chord with me. I wish I had the funds needed for a diagnose. Just the realisation that I most likely have ADHD helps a bit though. I now understand why I react the way I do to certain things and why have so much struggle doing certain things.
Damn this hit deeper than I thought it could...
I got my ADHD diagnosis last spring, but couldn't get any treatment yet. This is really giving me hope that things can get easier. Thank you Ben.
It took me 18 months, due to the mass shortages they are only really titrating the most severe cases however it looks like the main 2 treatments are finally starting to come up to the usable levels you'll likely hear about more people starting titration from May and hopefully you'll be one of them.
Good gravy! Seeing Dave Simpson holding "The Complication" is a sight I didn't know I needed until now. Connection / interaction between two of my favourite (and two of the absolute "nicest" and most genuine) guitar-related people on the internet in the same place at the same time!
Thank you so much for sharing this (and being so open and genuine), Ben. You have made me seriously consider getting checked out, since I have recently been exhibiting most of the symptoms you have mentioned, some of them for most of my life... (and am of the same generation - and grew up in SA, so have possibly the same history of lack of thinking about mental health issues like this).
Best of luck. You really should get checked out, for peace of mind at the very least.
I was in a very low place then covid hit... found your Vids... decided to strip and fix my Guitar myself, bike spanner by trade.. with your vids and ebay and your shop.. I stripped cleaned and rebuilt my Squire super Strat.. bought some cheap strat bodies and necks.. and sat down with you on a daliy basis to learn.. THANK You so much... Takes Ball to make a vid like this ... We Love you dude.... :) glad to see you back, up and running.... Peace N Love.. Davey P.... Uk..... big hug.. :)
Keep rockin' it Ben! You'll get there; just do yourself and keep working on what keeps you creative. Watching what you do and doing what you love is what makes watching your creativity even more inspiring. in the end our children become our rudder in our lives. I'm so glad that you embraced the words of your nine-year-old then; good on you.😉
Your openness about your ADHD diagnosis was a trigger for me to go an do the same and surprise I also discovered I have ADHD at 35 and treatment and medication has been life changing. Like yourself my multitasking ability has become much worse and I still have the thousand tabs of ideas open but I can actually pick and choose what I want to think about.
Get well soon . have similar problems so i get it. enjoy life
Thank you Ben! You're openness and vulnerability is an inspiration to me.
My story is very similar to yours. I didn't get my diagnosis until I turned 40 last year. One day I got this text message from a good friend saying, "Dude, this is pretty much you," with an attached video of a psychiatrist doing a clinical overview of ADHD. I was like, holy shit, that IS me. All of a sudden, a lot of the challenges I've had in the past, especially with academics and being constantly bored and depressed at work, made a lot of sense. Even with treatment, I still have occasional bouts of racing thoughts and flurries of ideas, but I have an easier time prioritizing tasks and getting things done.
The weight loss thing is really interesting, isn't it? I'm about 15 pounds lighter than I was when I started meds. Sometimes I only know when I'm hungry when I feel particularly irritable, which my wife is very good at identifying. Glad things are going well for you!
Really good video Ben , now please finish that hand build only guitar because my anxiety needs to hear it play so bad now ha ha
Hey Ben, I am really glad to hear you are doing so much better!! I have been going through a lot of the same things myself, but with far more medical issues. A couple cancer scares, type 2 diabetes (also from using food as a coping mechanism), covid times 3, prostate issues, back problems, nerve damage to my left hand, and recently some undiagnosed issue with my hip that prevents me from doing much of anything. Super crappy 💩
I wish you all the very best in your recovery to a normal life. I love the videos and in fact you and your personality. Stay well . Cheers from British Columbia, Canada
I'm 82 years old and I can tell you it's good to take a good look at where your at in all aspects of your life on a regular basis. In every examination of your life just remember, "To thine own self be true." Taking care of yourself mentaly and physically, is being true to yourself.
Thanks for sharing and providing truly GREAT and much needed advice! Within those 20 minutes I have come to realize something, some truth, about me! Thanks much, Ben.
"If you even have the smallest incling that this might apply to you, do it!" I wholeheartedly agree! I suffered under what I THOUGHT was 'situational' depression for decades. Then, when the 'situation' aspect just didn't hold water (i.e. I was want for *nothing* at all), I finally got help. That gloomy cloud that surrounded me everyday, the lack of any motivation to get out of bed in the morning, all is now a distant nightmare. I strongly suggest seeking help, even if...or *espeicially* if you think your mental state is 'situational'.
Love, respect , care and blessings ❤️
Diagnoses can be such a revelation Ben, I was in my mid 50s when I discovered that I was autistic. Suddenly, half a century of life became understandable to me. So much stuff makes sense to me me, and my friends and family are able to help and put things into perspective. Everything is better now. Enjoy your life, family and business, and keep up the good work!
Stay well ben...we are all in this together 🤍 ❣️ 🎸
I am going through the same things Ben. I am 52 years old and was just finally diagnosed with ADHD last year. It is hard not to be mad about time you have lost. You have accomplished so much. Dont be hard on yourself for the past, just go forward with your new purpose. You are killing it brother.
God bless brother head high . You are awesome man ,nothing but prayers for you .
Maybe I will go back to my Doctor and try going back on meds. I too have ADHD, it was very severe as a child, but I always refused to stay on meds. Thanks for sharing, you have given me something to think about. BTW, you look great and very happy to hear you are indeed well.
As someone who is on a seemingly ever growing waiting list for ADHD diagnosis (with the aim to become medicated), it's inspiring to hear how much it has improved your life. I can only hope that my journey can take me as far as it's taken you. Thank you for making this video and shining a light on this. You've been an inspiration to me for a long time, and I wish you all the best for the future!
As someone with ADHD I get this completely. I haven't been on medication for probably 25 years or so, but I can see how much it would actually help in my life at some point again.
I'm glad for you that this has been a positive change in your life.
This makes so much sense to me. I asked for an assessment, what i got from the GP was a questionnaire and a lot of eye rolling. It's as though this 42 year old was just looking for excuses for the mess he got himself. I haven't heard anything back. It was a few months ago. We'll see i guess
We are all in this together my friend!
Ben!! Touch wood? Knock on wood is what we say over hear in the u.s.
I'm happy to see our favorite builder make self improvement gives us even more reason to love your Content and this definitely is food for thought
On the last video (the making of the solid MOP nut), I just thought your beard looked better than ever. Never once assumed you were sick. Good talk. Glad you are well.
We love ya Ben for you.
Love your channel, what you do, who you are, how you conduct yourself and now, how you are caring for yourself!!! You are number one priority with your family!! Be well! We will be here whenever!!
I am a clinical social worker working in a very busy emergency department, so mental health is one of my main practice areas. Even then, these things can sneak up on you. One of my coworkers has had a diagnosis of ADHD for quite some time, and, boy, their symptoms sure sounded familiar. The big thing that got me was caffeine. I made a passing comment about how I sometimes sleep better with caffeine in me, which I'd never really thought about, and they pointed out that this is a strong indicator of a dopamine deficiency.
I've spent my life as a pretty high achiever, and I can prioritize pretty well, usually, when I FORCE it. I have to fight myself all the way to the end, and then I have to make up little rewards for myself. I guess that I have had the benefit of being stubborn. But I think that a lot of my history and a lot of my symptoms line up pretty closely with several key symptoms of ADHD, and I've made a goal of getting seen by my PCP and assessed at some point this year. If I'm being honest, life has burned me out pretty hardcore even though I appreciate and enjoy most of it.
I'm glad you're talking about this. I appreciate your being up front and real with us.
I gotta say..when i am feeling really really like s@#t, i smoke my pipe and watch your timed builds!! Those 3 series were always making my day brighter!!!! Lots of love from Greece!
This struck me deeply....thank you!!
You're a great guy Ben.... I'm learning a lot from you.... Well wishes your way! 🙏
Thank you very much
So Ben, the "Thin Lizzy" T shirt. Pun Intended? Good to hear you are feeling positive about life. Go get em.
Know where you're coming from. I was diagnosed with ADD back in 1990.
To this day, I have to catch myself whenever someone needs help with something, because I say, "Oh, yeah... I can do that." And then it takes me forever to follow through. (The pain is real)
Glad to hear you and your kids are supporting each other through the divorce. Strong family bonds can do so much for you.
Keep it going, brother. Life is supposed to get better as you go, and it sounds like you are on the path.
Ben.... start a second Channel for this discussion content! So meaningful to hear your peers voice these issues!
Oh, how much I needed this "talk".. Thank you very much. Best wishes and rock on!
Just my opinion, as someone who has watched your videos for many years, I don't think there is anything wrong with you. Sometimes life just kicks your ass for a while. Lots of people are going through similar things and it seems to be a sign of the current times. Be kind to yourself and find happiness where you can.
It's good to see you on the right track, Den from Blackfox Guitars.
Thank you Den. 🙏
thank you Ben, that was truely, truthful, honest and brave, very inspiring and tottally relatable, i have recently taken an online test and have identified i also potentially have ADHD, i always knew i was different! some of the behaviours you shared are me 100%!!! I now feel i need to pursue the path. thanks again. George
Just like you Ben,I’m in the position where I work 5 days a week,6am till 2pm but I’m up at 10 past 4 in the morning,I’ve a 14 year old son who plays football so I’m out most nights with him,Honestly,Since round about Christmas just gone by I’m physically drained,I very rarely eat as well,I get by on a lot of cups of coffee,I’m sore all over,Hands are full of wee cuts and nicks from the weather,Back constantly hurts,And what makes it worse is you can’t get time to recover,Saturdays and Sundays the only days I get off are spent lying on the couch,I don’t think I’m depressed,I’ve just learned to get on with it,Hopefully when the lighter mornings come in that will help,Take care big guy,I absolutely love your channel,Been watching for years👍👍👍
ok your ending has made my comment a 2 Parter lol. I feel like I have known Ben Crowe the guitar builder, media personality , ect. for some time now. I now feel like I have meet Ben Crowe the man and I like and respect you even more now. thanks .
Thank f*** you're not. I still have to thank you in person for so many thing. Glad you're well man. ♥
On the same journey with ADHD adult diagnosis. Really validating to hear you going through something similar, and very glad you're in a good place!
Great to hear that everything seems to be heading in the right direction for you Ben and I think the weight loss looks good on you. Go grab that future 😃
Thank you very much. That's the plan!
Hi Ben I am a massive fan of yours all the way back to your garden shed you are an unbelievable talent man which is why I've stayed watching all these years.i suffer from mental illness but every time you release a new build video it makes me and I'm sure so many other on here very happy.of course your family are no.1 but business wise i would focus solely on what you do best and that your guitars its why most of us watch keep your head up and we can't wait to see what you do next
good to hear your good bud,,,,thanks for aii your videos
Best wishes Ben. Life sometimes has a way of catching up with you, but you wouldn't be the person you are without it all. We're all truly thankful for your presence here.
Hi I can totally empathise with where you are and have been as I have been on the same journey for such a long time I am currently in a very similar position as yourself except its with burnout and depression but as you have said about yourself is it something else, this has helped me so much and I will be chatting to my gp about this, your video has helped me so much
Dear Ben. I fully feel with you. I have been viewing your channel for 10 yrs, and I could not fail to notice the changes you have gone through. So good that you got diagnosed and are receiving treatment. Hopefully early enough to restore you to the power and conviction to change what you need to change, so that you regain control over your life.
Not easy, but you will probably need to cut some loose ends and focus on your prime talents. And those are far more than just being a creative luthier and awesome woodworker, but you yourself are obviously a friendly, honest, humble and kind person that radiates these qualities of mankind in an infectious way. You are truly authentic and that is a superpower.
Good luck and progress, you owe it to yourself.
See about getting a volunteer to manage the Guitar Museum and step WAAY back? Find a tool enthusiast to manage the tool shop? Or go ahead and sell out or sell off everything and get out from under? Thanks for the rundown on symptoms. Gives me more to ask my doctor about. I was raised in a household that never talked about anything. For me that used to include doctors. Whatever you do Ben, we support you and are praying for you. In some famous words,,, Perspective and Lucidity! Make Some Sawdust!!
Hello Ben, I don't know if you remember me, but I turned up for a factory tour about 8 years ago, I was wearing a velvet patchwork waistcoat that everyone wanted. So sad to hear about your divorce, but I'm so glad that your children are ok with the situation. From one person to another with mental health problems, please take care, my friend. Take care and take time.
Sending my love dude. I’m going through something similar myself. It’s shit but also incrementally positive. It’s a hard journey but a worthwhile one. Solidarity brother.
Really pleased to see that you are now getting treatment for your problems. You do look a lot healthier than before. Keep going Ben, you know we all have your back as it were.
Ben you look great !
you are tuff you will make it through this!!!!
get well !
i love your teaching,
Hey Ben, very glad to hear that you're getting sorted. As a fellow survivor of appalling mental health problems for more than 40 years, I feel your pain. However, I also feel your joy, and that's worth more than anything. Love and respect, my friend.
Ben just build fabuleus guitars and video it as good as you can and be happy, I was told 3 years ago i have 2 hernias, i tought my life ended, dont look at what you cant look at what you can do. And enjoy that ❤🎸😎
Hey Ben! I was one of the people who had the pleasure of meeting you at the guitar show, but i think i said you looked well rather than ill 😋
Thank you for being so open about these things, i’m sure it will help a good number of people, and the more we talk about it the less it’s stigmatised!!
I hope everything keeps getting better in your world. 💪🏻
Thanks Ben. I have my assessment in May, and have been debating whether to cancel or not. I’ll go with not, I think.🙏
Thank you Ben!!.
Ben, I've been following you since the times of the build a guitar in x amount of time, I've seen your path and I'm a guitar builder, string instruments builder myself, I have ADHD too and I have to tell you, you are so amazing, I always admired your chaotic way to work, but now I also love the path that I see you're taking, please do what's best for yourself, you are a great inspiration for all of your followers, we'll still support you and admire you
All the best Ben. One thing I recently discovered is my vitamin B1 deficiency messed my life up for years. I have a supplement and its like having speed. Read a lot recently about fat soluble B1 Benfotiamine and it helping with Diabetes worth reading up on.