Crystal Meth Addict interview-Stephen

Soft White Underbelly interview and portrait of Stephen, a crystal meth addict on Skid Row.

[loriedwards]

I have learned from being around drugs my whole life that sobriety is like peeling a onion. You have to go thru layers, peeling back the hurt & trauma of life. It is the only way to get to the heart of why you are numbing the pain with drugs. It is gonna bring tears, its gonna be hell. But, without looking deep inside at the real pain. 99 percent will not quit using. When living with a lifetime of anguish, to be able to take it away, if only temporary is why most people keep using. I speak from experience, sadly I've lost so many friends & family. From addiction. I've also struggled the same fate. I understand what he is saying 100 percent, Everyone has pain deep inside that you carry forward. I hope he gets the help he needs to work on the layers of hurt inside.

[FLBeautyQueen]

I donate to get Stephen into a dual diagnosis program to address his underlying PTSD/trauma. In my opinion, regular drug treatment centers are not qualified to handle his case. He wants to gain traction in life but needs a life coach to teach him how to do so. Sending love, strength and prayers. You can do this Stephen. Do it for yourself and children. They need you more than you realize.

[carlkamuti]

I really respect how this guy takes full responsibility for his drug use. I really hope he gets there.

[DetroitFettyghost]

I'm officially 40 years old today. Never thought I'd live this long. Humbled.

Hope everyone is well. Stay warm. It's cold everywhere just about. Freezing here. Thank you Mark and Steve for the interview. ❤️

•This man has the tools, I think he can make it. Wishing you sucess Stephen! You can get home to them kids brother. I know you can.

[marissamansfield]

What an interesting take on the VFW. Also, love hearing from an actual veteran about the sheer neglect from our government after their sacrifice and service. My grandfather came back from Vietnam and was not mentally stable due to the trauma he experienced. I hope this man gets the help he deserves

[shannamcclurkin]

This soldier should still be taken care of especially since he is a veteran. Please don't give up Stephen, there are people who have your back. Much love take care of your beautiful children.

[BrianKeith]

I'm guilty of seeing a photo of the person you interview and making a judgement based on their photo and the title, but most of the time the person you interview is the complete opposite. Making these judgements along with many other flaws I have is something I'm trying to overcome, no matter how big or small it may be. This gentleman has a good head on his shoulders, I pray that he ends up getting clean and be living a fulfilling life. Thank you Mark for everything you do and giving your guests a chance to open up and be heard!

[strawberrydip]

This man has greatness in him, something about his spirit, and he needs to realize that

[aburidwan]

I’ve seen most of Marks interviews & honestly this is one of the most powerful interview showing the effects of addiction, hope you get clean Stephen, stay strong 💪🏽

[trennav]

That was hard to watch, so much authenticity and emotion. Stephen, surrender completely. You can do this brother. I had 17 years in alcoholism and this month I celebrated 8 years. There is nothing more rewarding than being released from the chains that bind you. Don't let some bathtub chemical steal your life. Prayers for recovery!

[sandifenandes]

Stephen is a nice looking guy and has a plan to be better person and parent. I hope he succeeds. Please don't give up. Keep trying.

[fatherrussell]

Nod from a severely wounded vet from those years. We all found our poison to forget, but your kid needs you.

[courtneypeters]

Mark, if you read this, I just want to say how much I admire what you're doing with this project. It truly illuminates the front lines of an addiction/mental health/housing crisis. It is a window into an issue people have to confront if we have any hope of moving forward. Would love to see the interviews you could get in Boston! Keep yourself safe out there.

[fleetsma]

I have so much hope that someone will help Stephen as he seeks out to become sober! What a tender heart!

[daphnedawn]

Thank you for your service and the sacrifice you gave.

[daverossijr]

What a Great Dude!!! Thank you for your Service Brotha!!! I pray that you find yourself and Get back to your Babies... They Need you soooo Much Bro.. You are fully capable still to making a difference and you Do Deserve a Better life

[nafeesahtynetta]

I've been telling all of the homeless people that I see that they can go to H&R Block, Liberty Tax, etc. and they can help you get all of your stimulus money. You don't need a permanent address. Y'all, spread the word.

And I'm also in Phoenix. Best of luck to you, Stephen. ♥

[ericjones]

As a recovered meth addict for almost 11 years now, I wish nothing but the best for this young man! Meth WILL destroy everything about you and your family suffers right along with you. Prayers to all meth addicts!!

[marciabernard]

Steven you can do it..when he said we are the human family makes me cry..stay strong 💪 do it for your kids

[wesleyalan]

Great interview, I'm speechless. This hit home to me also...I was in the Army, (4 year term)I was also in basic training when 9/11 happened. 💜