Hey Lex, I think it's great that you're willing to talk openly about your challenges, because for many players we don't have the best habits to support our mental and emotional health. Thanks for being open about it, and reminding us to try to live a more balanced lifestyle.
Wasn’t expecting a shoutout but thanks for mentioning our conversation. I will add, as an academic, to what you have said in the outro - the higher authenticity you maintain in your public persona, the better your mental health will be. The reason most celebrities suffer from depression, anxiety and end with some kind of addiction, is the psychological toll due to duplicity that they are forced to maintain for their public image. The more authentic you are, the less toll on psychological resources. So, keep up the good work and just be yourself at all times.
Great video Lex! Appreciate and value the transparency around your mental health journey. You do live an aspirational life for most people on the 9 to 5 grind, and I can see how life on the road and lack of structure may allow for more downward spirals. Amazing that you have identified the pitfalls of Vegas and that you are using your channel as an accountability tool… as someone who struggles with mental health from time to time this makes me appreciate your content and journey even more. Keep it up, we are all pulling for you!
I have to be honest here, I don't like watching poker at the Lodge. IMO their cameras and sound are crap. I guess I'm just spoiled by HCL and their production value. But I did watch this entire video. I'm glad that I watched to the end because I want to say that Lex you know that you are not alone with your mental battles. I've struggled with depression and anxiety since I was in my early 20's. I'm now 66. I have a lot of regret because I didn't make the choice to live my best life early on. Now that I'm retired I'm finally living the best life I can. It takes a lot of courage to put yourself in front of a camera to an audience and say those things. I applaud you Lex. I wish you all the best and the best run good. Right on man. Kudos to you.
Damn that’s a wild take becuz I feel like the lodge has the best steam. Personally I don’t like HCL anymore , too much scandal and the line ups are getting stale lately
@@michaelwillis4532 Agreed. Texas poker is actually pretty friendly with lots of action … LA poker seems grimey but of course what do you expect from “hustler” casino. Lol
It took a lot of guts for you to talk about your mental health. Very inspiring. I have dealt and am currently dealing with these same issues, more so with my mother passing. It’s easier to play poker and drink than it is to actually work on yourself. Your lifestyle as a poker player in particular with the swings that come with it make it much harder I’m sure. Thank you for sharing and being real and I hope things improve for you.
You’re probably my favorite poker vlogger just because of how realistic you are! Keep the content coming you do a fantastic job and I am always excited when I see a vlog pop up
I honestly don't know why you don't have way more subscribers. Your excellent content, your forthcoming character, and your realistic portrayal of yourself put you in the upper echelon of todays poker vloggers. I wish you all the success in your ventures. I know you will come out on top.
Thanks for sharing Lex, it makes what you do and how you are doing that much more impressive. Mental health always seems to be over looked or taken for granted. Yes a poker players life and lifestyle is very hard
Lex your truly the most realistic/humble and authentic vlogger out there. What I appreciate most about your style is that you make it feel as if your not hunting for subs even if topics might be controversial or not what most of the ppl wanna see. Keep on going and stay loyal to your values, you have a bright future!
Though I'm not a poker player, my passion for the game draws me to your videos, eagerly anticipating your successful bluffs and adept reading of situations. I resonate with your sentiments, as men striving for independence and navigating life's responsibilities can find it overwhelming. Despite the burnout, your courage to expose your journey to the world is commendable. Wishing success for both of us and everyone facing life's challenges, may we persist and never give up. #Keep it up 🥰🥰
Great perspective, Lex. It’s great to see that candid honesty. I hope you continue to persevere with your poker and hope you see better days. I’ve been in the same boat for almost 20 years and it’s certainly not an easy challenge to deal with.
Love the honesty and willingness to open up to strangers. You’re on the right track as long as you never lose your focus on the bigger picture. By the way, I noticed your game is improving by your willingness to bluff more and be creative in spots. Keep up the progress!
I just watched this Vlog on our TV. I had to grab my iPad and comment on your Outro to this video. Thank you for sharing this. I’ve enjoyed watching your Vlogs for a while now but have never commented. I do try and like all your videos though. Your openness to discuss mental health really resonated with me. My wife who does not play poker or watch Vlogs happened too see your Outro also. She also commented that she could really understand/connect with your candidness about mental health. Just wanted to tell you that you are reaching more people than you realize. You are excellent in helping me understand Poker Strategy but also keeping it real. Poker definitely has its highs and lows. Players rarely talk about the lows. Thank you…
Thanks Lex! Watched to the end and your sincerity was much appreciated. I’ve seen you win big and lose big. Your authenticity is one of the reasons I watch and keep watching. Also, you make it exciting. Keep up the good work!
I really want to tell you thankyou for talking to us about how you are really doing in life! I suffer from anxiety and depression as well and it just helps me to realize that I am not alone in this mental health fight!! I have watched you since the beginning and have replied several times but this video hit me. I really hope you are able to conquer your goal of what you want to do while in Vegas and in everyday life! I really enjoy watching you play and think you’re a great poker player! I wish you well Lex!! 💙🤙🏻
One of the main reasons I love ur vlogs is your transparency. I appreciate u sharing ur thoughts and wish u best of success on all levels. Much love from Israel 🇮🇱
Lex, thanks for sharing that very intimate part of your life with us. You're an inspiration, and I really enjoy watching your videos. Also, thanks for being so genuine and sharing these great videos on a game that we all love!
Can't think of any other poker vlogger who would share this perpective so honestly, exposing yourself to all...well done. Good luck with the changes in Vegas. Looking forward to the follow-up and I have a strong inclination it will impact you positively.
Out of the 15 or so poker vloggers I follow, I'd genuinely have to say that you'd be the one I'd want to meet and hang with the most. Your content is the most relatable, straightforward, and candid...in addition to being entertaining. Stay well man!
Just subscribed to your channel, which I rarely ever do. I’ve watched a ton of your videos and love your content, but your raw honesty and candor in this video made me want to support you further. Thanks for the honesty.
Self-awareness is key. I pray you find the balance you need for your overall well-being. I appreciate that your transparency is a step toward finding self-accountability. Good luck. Love your content and the fact that you are sharing your journey with us all.
lex is the most honest poker vlogger on the market today. he is the only one who isn't running scam online poker games, laundering money, cheating, colluding, and he should be commended for it.
Hi Lex, I wanted to write to let you know how much I appreciate your candidness about mental health. I have like many people have also been dealing with ups and downs and depression. I am blessed to have family/friends, blessed that I have a roof over my head and blessed that I have my health and am able to play poker. I am currently taking a few months off because 2023 was super terrible and seems like the run bad never stops. Anyways I appreciate your openness. Hearing things like this brings into reality that " it isn't only me" that is dealing with these types of issues. Have a Merry Christmas and keep doing what you do brother.
I haven't been following you for too long but I enjoy your content. I used to play poker 2 decades ago and I am being kinda forced into playing again. I gave it up because the highs and lows were too much for me. When I was at my best I never enjoyed my wins but my losses were crippling. I felt incompetent, abandoned and crawled into a hole for days trying to recover. Depression runs in my family and I have suffered with it on and off my whole life. Poker exasperated it. You seem to be way ahead of me emotionally. Keep the focus on yourself. I will be praying for you.
Great vlog Lex. I think it is awesome that you are so open about the ups and downs you experience. As honest and upfront as you are about the losses and setbacks, I think it just doesn’t hit the same when it’s not my own money. You really do a great job of keeping things real though. Been watching since the beginning and am always happy to see your next vlog. I hope to play with you some day.
Lex-O, thank you for your honest take on your personal trials. We all go through hard times, mentally, it's how we choose to deal with it and learn drom it, which it seems you are doing. Keep living your best life, we'll keep watchin & rootin 4ya!
Lex, millions of people hide their mental health challenges in fear of ridicule. I’m happy that you shared your challenge because although we’ve never met, I think you are a great person and I enjoy your videos very much. Focus on thinking of your positive traits and character and negative thoughts will disappear.
Great talk at the end of the video, Lex! It is great to realize the perception you have of yourself and then compare that realization to the perception that others have of you! Anyway, I enjoy hearing you express your personal thoughts, and it helps in the long run to be able to verbalize those thoughts and emotions with others! We, as an audience, really appreciate your vlogs and the journey you have shown in them! Keep up the great work both on and off the felt brother! Sincerely! David Ridgeway
👏 fair play Lex, so good to hear this honesty from you. I think we all know deep down that most people suffer internally, but it's a great way to support each other when we actually voice it, with your platform I commend you for this. I live a roller coaster ride every week with my emotions and ups and downs of poker or just life itself. From me, I love your content and your whole attitude and I aspire to better myself from listening to you. You are a breath of fresh air, so ty and keep doing you. Top man. Ps I've watched you from flog 1
Thank you for putting yourself out there and being vulnerable. The authenticity is wonderful to see. What we do with our bodies has a profound impact on our mind. Eating healthy, exercising, taking time for ourselves fuels are physical and mental strength and our ability to stay creative. Keep us posted Lex, I appreciate you.
Lex o. Great to hear your true feelings. When I am down, I try to think about how great I have it compare to someone that is truly struggling. There are so many ppl struggling. Always remember how many ppl truely love you and care about you. Family. Always try to be positive and see things as glass half full. It can always get worse but it's in our human nature to climb out of it. Look back and see how far you have come in life. Also having a positive companion always helps. Be positive man.
Really appreciate your honesty. In today's world there only a few people who would do what you did, showing weakness. I beleive a lot of people feel the same way like you do and your approach to this will help lots of people. It inspired me at least.
As usual, another great VLog. I especially like your discussion about the mental health issues related to playing poker. Refreshingly honest. Keep up the good work!
Impressed with the honesty. Good habits like going to bed early and eating regularly and well, especially when traveling is the only advice I have. Friendships can also help a lot!
I do not really comment on the youtube videos I watch. I have been watching your videos for over a year and this is you best one to date. The poker content is great and you show how you can get out of the hole even when you are not getting cards. Also opening up about what is going on in your life gives everyone a better understanding and more realistic view of a content provider. Keep up the great content.
Listen Lex, your crushing it. Every day at a time. As long as you have your eyes on the horizon your fine. Keep up the diespline and your training. And I want to really thank you for your content. I really enjoy it.
I have always seen social media as the modern day version of your parents/grandparents photo album. You see the births, holidays, celebrations, etc. But when is the last time you flipped through an album and saw the pink slip, or the overdue bill notice, therapy bill? No one is immune from the hard times. As a viewer, we need to remember this so we don’t get a skewed image of others, or negatively impact our own mental health. As a creator, you are under no obligation or expectation to showcase those harder times. However, when you do, it serves as a reminder to us that your life isnt all peaches, and ours isnt all pits. Thanks Lex O. Keep it up!
Lex it's great to hear about your life. I really like to see your chats from your kitchen btw. And yes all of us struggle from time to time. Hang in there. Hope to see you here in Vegas.
You being honest about what you're going through not only helps you. But it also helps others that they are afraid to talk about themselves. So I see it as saving lives in the moment. You're right on point because I deal with chemical addiction it's not always easy. But the more that talk about personal struggles the better I feel about myself. Also remember that we are only as sick as our secrets that we hold on to in our lives. I've been clean for over 35 years and it's been a one day at a time process for me and journey through it has given me a positive influence on my life. Sometimes we just need to slow down and enjoy the blessings that we have been given today. Change in routine is not comfortable but necessary to grow in our lives. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and feelings with UT today.
Lex that was an awesome video! As a person who tries always to be discipline with he’s goals and not relay on motivation, your story share was a huge motivation boost. I want to wish you a huge run good in Vegas, you became my favorite poker vlog over Mariano and rampage. Take care brother!❤
Lex, yes, your open honesty is a motivation for me. My problems are simpler to deal with in that I just want to feel good about my life. I know what I need to do to achieve more of that, but sometimes I just do more of the old behaviors. I have made a lot of progress in the last year, the motivation you just gave me will help me choose to do more of the things that I think make me feel better. Hope you have great exercise and events in Vegas and run good. Oh yes, Lex, your videos are great.
Man i feel you there with the anxiety and depression. I dont play poker much or gamble at all but i work in the restaurant business so 8-10 hour days as a bartender puts a toll on me. Been doing it for 20 years now and now being 41 if i could highlight my carrer it would be an effing roller coaster. Cant wait till the next video man! Love the content
Thanks so much, Lex for being open and even using this platform for accountability. I too struggle with mental health and depression having highs and lows just like you. I lived in Vegas for a time playing professionally and hiking really helped me. There is some amazing hiking in Vegas both at Red Rock Canyon and Fire of Valley state park. During the summer you can go up to Mt. Charleston where it’s a nice 75 degrees when it’s well over 100 in the Vegas valley. I recently moved to Florida and have struggled to find good hiking where I don’t get eaten alive by mosquitoes. I play at Card House St. Lucie so I’ll say hi if you play there again.
Thank you for sharing this Lex, keep ur chin up man. Sometimes life gets you down for no reason at all, anxiety is very real and millions deal with it. It’s important to have a healthy lifestyle like ur speaking about. Great video. GL in Vegas
Lex! I like You very much. Playing poker for a living is fundamentally mentally taxing. I've been following your channel almost since the beginning. You seem like a balanced person to me. Thanks for your many videos! Merry Christmas! Artur from Hungary 🙂
Great stuff! I do appreciate the honesty and the transparency you bring to your channel. I am also from Fl. Mia. Not much of a poker player, but enjoy watching your vlogs as well other poker volgers. I find keeping on a schedule helps me stay focus. Including eating well and exercising. I do find myself deviating from time to time and thats ok. Like, cheat meals and laziness. Trying to talk the talk and walk the walk gets hard sometimes. Getting and different prospective dose help ahd thanks for sharing. Peace my Brother...!
Extraordinary ending to your video Lex. Although I do not struggle mentally at all in these regards, (anxiety/depression), my #4 27 year old Son (who I love and adore dearly does) and my heart hurts when he feels this way. I’m so proud of your journey and commitment that’s shared through your vlog. It’s inspirational and I now believe that’s it a bit more. Prayers for your success and happiness my friend. “LET’S GO!”
I doubt you’ll see this message bro. But thank you for opening up at the end of the video. I feel the same sometimes and suffer from depression randomly as well. One day at a time Lex. Been watching n supporting the channel for a while now, and you’ve become one of my favorite creators for poker. Love how real you always keep it bro. Love
Watched every second of your outro. Mad respect for sharing your ‘off camera’ world. Thank you. Would love to hear about your unpoker adventures in Vegas!
I go through the same things and people are always surprised when I tell them of my issues. I'm glad you shared with us and I hope you can find some peace. Also if you've never been you need to visit Valley of Fire about an hour east of LV. My favorite desert hiking spot.
Thanks for sharing your feelings Lex. I lot of what you brought up just happened to me, as I spent six days in Vegas playing the WPT Prime event and cash games. Over those six days I played over 70 hours of poker, and like you it took a mental toll on me, that I am still dealing with 5 days later. Take care of yourself while you are out there.
Thank for putting urself out there, if u can't say it u can't fix it, so many suffer with the same thing need to hear they r not alone & there is hope, keep working on it & try to stay😁 positive
Great that you’re showing the full picture, as well as explaining the rationale for your game. Like most bloggers, you show your wins and loses in the night, but not the full lifestyle. How many hours per week, how much time planning, lack of sleep, the reality of playing poker for a living.
I’m struggling with mental health illness too. I e never had swings this intense. I’m battling, asking for help, and praying like heck. I hope y’all can have happy holidays. God bless.
Great video Lex. This is your CZcams, use your platform as you decide. It’s good to be transparent about what CZcams sees vs what you actually go through.
I dont think i could ever do a youtube channel where i talk a lot. It would definitely not be the true me. Im 46 born and raised in Florida. I will say try and have kids soon. I dont have any and thats what life is truly about. When you get to my age you really start to feel empty without kids.
Depression is such a beast, I struggled with terrible depression for many years, I found my footing and didn’t look back. Although there’s so much more than can be put in a CZcams comment. I love your vlogs and honesty is great. Your inspiring when it comes to poker. Have you ever tried acupuncture? It’s helped me these last years with depression and healing. Peace ✌️
Thanks for putting out some of the most entertaining and interesting poker vlogs. Your “run it twice” comment put a big smile on my face! Your humor and honesty is so appreciated! Thanks Brother
luv the vids...keep em coming....battling bipolar is a nightmare...if u can avoid getting on meds like klonopin or xanax for anxiety and too many to name for depression, u are way better off....the flipside is that some people are just chemically inbalanced and need medication....last thing, if you decide u dont wanna be on meds anymore, the detox off benzos really sux
Bro, I feel you with the mental challenges. It’s the state of the world. I feel like you are a positive, real person and wish you all the luck. On and off the felt. And ya, Vegas is a meat grinder.
Definity a good idea to get outdoors anytime your are not feeling well mentally. I love the fresh air, the physical activity, and getting away from the screens in my house.
Best of luck in Vegas. Keep that healthy positive mindset. Don’t let Vegas take you down that dark path. Looking forward to seeing the life beyond the poker table.
Thanks for sharing your struggles with depression. It helps to verbalize the issue verses not wanting people to know. Diet, good friends who make you laugh hopefully will help.
Hey Lex, so K10 is your new favorite hand, I guess? Lol. Great vlog, thanks for your honesty, and yes, we all have "life swings", whether in poker, family, jobs, or elsewhere. The best way to combat depression, etc. I've found is to: 1. Have God in your life and try to follow his scriptures. 2. Have good friends and family around you to support you. 3. Be humble, generous, gracious, accountable, and not prideful. 4. Stay active, make sure you get some sunshine daily, as it def. can help with your mood. Seems by what you said that you're on the right track to make some positive changes. Take care, Bill
Been watching you since the beginning. Never comment. I like your content because it's real. You play like I do mostly. Im a contractor and have often considered trying to play professional but what holds me back is the atmosphere that goes with game. It is more negative in these rooms than positive. Everyone is having fun and all but deep down it's people trying to get your money and when their losing the mood changes. Plus your in a casino surrounded by all sorts of gamblers so the energy is bad. It weighs on you. After 8 hrs in that environment I feel terrible win or lose. To spend all week in it will become an anchor on your spiritual evolution. The happiest people I know are broke and spend all day helping others. Not that I'm innocent of the lifestyle but simply put gamblers are often more of a selfish crowd
Thanks for opening up. Grind is hard and stressful. I also feel this way if I play long hours. The only way that works for me is many short 3-6 hours sessions and a lot of sport, being outside, hanging out with friends and family. It can be easily explained on a hormone level- you seat all day inside, consume bad food, not moving much. So don’t worry it’s very relatively easy to fix. It’s all about balance.
Talking about your mental health is a move in the right direction.. I've gone through this and yet people thought I was in control..I call it survival mode..so all the best P.s. exercise helps with the uncertainty uncertainty
Hey Lex. Appreciate you sharing your mental health struggles. I honestly never would have known if you hadn't talked about it because you hide it very well. I too, am a poker player (and gambler in general) that suffers from mental health issues, including very severe anxiety, depression and the least fun of all Tourette's Syndrome (I have a very noticeable twitch in my neck). While I love playing live poker, I can never say I'm super comfortable sitting around a table full of other people. I actually do everything I can to not draw attention to myself (though I can often see people staring at me when my twitch flares up). While I would love to just be one of the guys sitting there laughing and joking and being relaxed, my severe anxiety and twitch keeps me from doing so. If I do try to converse (which is rare) I usually come across as awkward and off-putting to most people since my anxiety prevents me from being myself, so in general I just sit there quietly and try to focus on the game. The funny thing is, if I have enough alcohol and have a good buzz going on, I actually can function like a normal human being at the table, but of course it sucks I have to get to that point just to have normal interactions (not to mention kind of detrimental to my game). I remember once Brad Owen sat to my left and I wanted to say something like "love your vlogs man", but I was just too frozen with fear to do so. Anyways, I just thought I'd share. Mental health struggles are definitely no fun.
Hi Lex, enjoy watching your videos, and especially enjoyed that last part where you kept it real regarding your mental health struggles. I struggle with similar issues, and I know this is probably not what you or any of your viewers want to hear, but I eventually came to the difficult conclusion that poker (or any sort of gambling in general) was NOT helping. It's a very strange game that can be extremely cruel and many times highly illogical (like the big T-1000 hand). I also totally get what you are saying about Vegas. They call it Sin City for a reason. It's all superficial, materialistic garbage. Everyone seems so happy, there is beauty all around you, yet it leaves you feeling so empty inside somehow. I have been 5 times now, and the last time left me feeling so horrible I told myself it would be a long time before I ever went back, if ever. I came to the realization that I really don't enjoy gambling, I only enjoy winning. No matter how good you become at poker, no one wins every session. Only the select few are even positive EV in the long run. I also am single without children and know I should spend less time gambling and more time working on improving myself and my social life. Also my Christian faith helps stabilize my depression and improve my life perspective. Good luck man, I hope you can figure out something that works for you. I will pray for you. Blessings from Jacksonville, FL. Feel free to hollar at me if you are go to Best Bet and need someone in your cheering section.
Hey Lex, I think it's great that you're willing to talk openly about your challenges, because for many players we don't have the best habits to support our mental and emotional health. Thanks for being open about it, and reminding us to try to live a more balanced lifestyle.
Wasn’t expecting a shoutout but thanks for mentioning our conversation. I will add, as an academic, to what you have said in the outro - the higher authenticity you maintain in your public persona, the better your mental health will be. The reason most celebrities suffer from depression, anxiety and end with some kind of addiction, is the psychological toll due to duplicity that they are forced to maintain for their public image. The more authentic you are, the less toll on psychological resources. So, keep up the good work and just be yourself at all times.
Free Palestine 🫶🏼
Great video Lex! Appreciate and value the transparency around your mental health journey. You do live an aspirational life for most people on the 9 to 5 grind, and I can see how life on the road and lack of structure may allow for more downward spirals. Amazing that you have identified the pitfalls of Vegas and that you are using your channel as an accountability tool… as someone who struggles with mental health from time to time this makes me appreciate your content and journey even more. Keep it up, we are all pulling for you!
I have to be honest here, I don't like watching poker at the Lodge. IMO their cameras and sound are crap. I guess I'm just spoiled by HCL and their production value. But I did watch this entire video. I'm glad that I watched to the end because I want to say that Lex you know that you are not alone with your mental battles. I've struggled with depression and anxiety since I was in my early 20's. I'm now 66. I have a lot of regret because I didn't make the choice to live my best life early on. Now that I'm retired I'm finally living the best life I can. It takes a lot of courage to put yourself in front of a camera to an audience and say those things. I applaud you Lex. I wish you all the best and the best run good. Right on man. Kudos to you.
Damn that’s a wild take becuz I feel like the lodge has the best steam. Personally I don’t like HCL anymore , too much scandal and the line ups are getting stale lately
@@FuentesicoI quit watching HCL stream several weeks ago. Full of cheaters,liers,fakes and the worst person I’ve ever seen,Nick!
@@michaelwillis4532
Agreed. Texas poker is actually pretty friendly with lots of action …
LA poker seems grimey but of course what do you expect from “hustler” casino. Lol
HCL has become too scammy imo. There is always something there that causes a situation. Texas poker looks a lot of fun to play.
What’s a bummer about Texas poker is you need paid memberships to play & then get charged to play by the hour. It can be kinda expensive.
It took a lot of guts for you to talk about your mental health. Very inspiring. I have dealt and am currently dealing with these same issues, more so with my mother passing. It’s easier to play poker and drink than it is to actually work on yourself. Your lifestyle as a poker player in particular with the swings that come with it make it much harder I’m sure.
Thank you for sharing and being real and I hope things improve for you.
You’re probably my favorite poker vlogger just because of how realistic you are! Keep the content coming you do a fantastic job and I am always excited when I see a vlog pop up
I honestly don't know why you don't have way more subscribers. Your excellent content, your forthcoming character, and your realistic portrayal of yourself put you in the upper echelon of todays poker vloggers. I wish you all the success in your ventures. I know you will come out on top.
Thanks for sharing Lex, it makes what you do and how you are doing that much more impressive. Mental health always seems to be over looked or taken for granted. Yes a poker players life and lifestyle is very hard
Lex your truly the most realistic/humble and authentic vlogger out there. What I appreciate most about your style is that you make it feel as if your not hunting for subs even if topics might be controversial or not what most of the ppl wanna see. Keep on going and stay loyal to your values, you have a bright future!
Though I'm not a poker player, my passion for the game draws me to your videos, eagerly anticipating your successful bluffs and adept reading of situations.
I resonate with your sentiments, as men striving for independence and navigating life's responsibilities can find it overwhelming. Despite the burnout, your courage to expose your journey to the world is commendable.
Wishing success for both of us and everyone facing life's challenges, may we persist and never give up.
#Keep it up 🥰🥰
Great perspective, Lex. It’s great to see that candid honesty. I hope you continue to persevere with your poker and hope you see better days. I’ve been in the same boat for almost 20 years and it’s certainly not an easy challenge to deal with.
Good on you Lex. Never be afraid to share as you may help someone. If you can just help one person with these issues (even if it’s yourself) you win.
Love the honesty and willingness to open up to strangers. You’re on the right track as long as you never lose your focus on the bigger picture. By the way, I noticed your game is improving by your willingness to bluff more and be creative in spots. Keep up the progress!
Love the introspective thoughts at the end. Very relatable. Wish you nothing but the best in Vegas and in 2024.
I just watched this Vlog on our TV. I had to grab my iPad and comment on your Outro to this video. Thank you for sharing this. I’ve enjoyed watching your Vlogs for a while now but have never commented. I do try and like all your videos though. Your openness to discuss mental health really resonated with me. My wife who does not play poker or watch Vlogs happened too see your Outro also. She also commented that she could really understand/connect with your candidness about mental health. Just wanted to tell you that you are reaching more people than you realize. You are excellent in helping me understand Poker Strategy but also keeping it real. Poker definitely has its highs and lows. Players rarely talk about the lows. Thank you…
Thanks Lex! Watched to the end and your sincerity was much appreciated. I’ve seen you win big and lose big. Your authenticity is one of the reasons I watch and keep watching. Also, you make it exciting. Keep up the good work!
I really want to tell you thankyou for talking to us about how you are really doing in life! I suffer from anxiety and depression as well and it just helps me to realize that I am not alone in this mental health fight!! I have watched you since the beginning and have replied several times but this video hit me. I really hope you are able to conquer your goal of what you want to do while in Vegas and in everyday life! I really enjoy watching you play and think you’re a great poker player! I wish you well Lex!! 💙🤙🏻
One of the main reasons I love ur vlogs is your transparency. I appreciate u sharing ur thoughts and wish u best of success on all levels. Much love from Israel 🇮🇱
Lex, thanks for sharing that very intimate part of your life with us. You're an inspiration, and I really enjoy watching your videos. Also, thanks for being so genuine and sharing these great videos on a game that we all love!
Can't think of any other poker vlogger who would share this perpective so honestly, exposing yourself to all...well done.
Good luck with the changes in Vegas. Looking forward to the follow-up and I have a strong inclination it will impact you positively.
Out of the 15 or so poker vloggers I follow, I'd genuinely have to say that you'd be the one I'd want to meet and hang with the most. Your content is the most relatable, straightforward, and candid...in addition to being entertaining. Stay well man!
Just subscribed to your channel, which I rarely ever do. I’ve watched a ton of your videos and love your content, but your raw honesty and candor in this video made me want to support you further. Thanks for the honesty.
Self-awareness is key. I pray you find the balance you need for your overall well-being. I appreciate that your transparency is a step toward finding self-accountability.
Good luck. Love your content and the fact that you are sharing your journey with us all.
lex is the most honest poker vlogger on the market today. he is the only one who isn't running scam online poker games, laundering money, cheating, colluding, and he should be commended for it.
We appreciate the transparency Lex. Exercise one of the best for mental health and they got plenty of nice pads and gyms off the strip
Hi Lex,
I wanted to write to let you know how much I appreciate your candidness about mental health. I have like many people have also been dealing with ups and downs and depression. I am blessed to have family/friends, blessed that I have a roof over my head and blessed that I have my health and am able to play poker. I am currently taking a few months off because 2023 was super terrible and seems like the run bad never stops. Anyways I appreciate your openness. Hearing things like this brings into reality that " it isn't only me" that is dealing with these types of issues.
Have a Merry Christmas and keep doing what you do brother.
I haven't been following you for too long but I enjoy your content. I used to play poker 2 decades ago and I am being kinda forced into playing again. I gave it up because the highs and lows were too much for me. When I was at my best I never enjoyed my wins but my losses were crippling. I felt incompetent, abandoned and crawled into a hole for days trying to recover. Depression runs in my family and I have suffered with it on and off my whole life. Poker exasperated it. You seem to be way ahead of me emotionally. Keep the focus on yourself. I will be praying for you.
Respect Lex on your honesty and transparency. I think a lot of people can relate to you on problems people go through. Love the journey bro!
Great vlog Lex. I think it is awesome that you are so open about the ups and downs you experience. As honest and upfront as you are about the losses and setbacks, I think it just doesn’t hit the same when it’s not my own money. You really do a great job of keeping things real though. Been watching since the beginning and am always happy to see your next vlog. I hope to play with you some day.
Lex-O, thank you for your honest take on your personal trials. We all go through hard times, mentally, it's how we choose to deal with it and learn drom it, which it seems you are doing. Keep living your best life, we'll keep watchin & rootin 4ya!
Lex, millions of people hide their mental health challenges in fear of ridicule. I’m happy that you shared your challenge because although we’ve never met, I think you are a great person and I enjoy your videos very much. Focus on thinking of your positive traits and character and negative thoughts will disappear.
Great talk at the end of the video, Lex! It is great to realize the perception you have of yourself and then compare that realization to the perception that others have of you!
Anyway, I enjoy hearing you express your personal thoughts, and it helps in the long run to be able to verbalize those thoughts and emotions with others!
We, as an audience, really appreciate your vlogs and the journey you have shown in them! Keep up the great work both on and off the felt brother!
Sincerely!
David Ridgeway
Keep keeping it real Lex. Always appreciate the honesty
👏 fair play Lex, so good to hear this honesty from you.
I think we all know deep down that most people suffer internally, but it's a great way to support each other when we actually voice it, with your platform I commend you for this.
I live a roller coaster ride every week with my emotions and ups and downs of poker or just life itself.
From me, I love your content and your whole attitude and I aspire to better myself from listening to you. You are a breath of fresh air, so ty and keep doing you.
Top man.
Ps I've watched you from flog 1
Thank you for putting yourself out there and being vulnerable. The authenticity is wonderful to see. What we do with our bodies has a profound impact on our mind. Eating healthy, exercising, taking time for ourselves fuels are physical and mental strength and our ability to stay creative. Keep us posted Lex, I appreciate you.
Thank you for your honesty and helping to chip away at the stigma associated with mental health challenges.
Lex o. Great to hear your true feelings. When I am down, I try to think about how great I have it compare to someone that is truly struggling. There are so many ppl struggling. Always remember how many ppl truely love you and care about you. Family. Always try to be positive and see things as glass half full. It can always get worse but it's in our human nature to climb out of it. Look back and see how far you have come in life. Also having a positive companion always helps. Be positive man.
Really appreciate your honesty. In today's world there only a few people who would do what you did, showing weakness. I beleive a lot of people feel the same way like you do and your approach to this will help lots of people. It inspired me at least.
As usual, another great VLog. I especially like your discussion about the mental health issues related to playing poker. Refreshingly honest. Keep up the good work!
Impressed with the honesty. Good habits like going to bed early and eating regularly and well, especially when traveling is the only advice I have. Friendships can also help a lot!
I do not really comment on the youtube videos I watch. I have been watching your videos for over a year and this is you best one to date. The poker content is great and you show how you can get out of the hole even when you are not getting cards. Also opening up about what is going on in your life gives everyone a better understanding and more realistic view of a content provider. Keep up the great content.
Listen Lex, your crushing it. Every day at a time. As long as you have your eyes on the horizon your fine.
Keep up the diespline and your training. And I want to really thank you for your content. I really enjoy it.
I have always seen social media as the modern day version of your parents/grandparents photo album. You see the births, holidays, celebrations, etc. But when is the last time you flipped through an album and saw the pink slip, or the overdue bill notice, therapy bill?
No one is immune from the hard times. As a viewer, we need to remember this so we don’t get a skewed image of others, or negatively impact our own mental health.
As a creator, you are under no obligation or expectation to showcase those harder times. However, when you do, it serves as a reminder to us that your life isnt all peaches, and ours isnt all pits.
Thanks Lex O. Keep it up!
Lex it's great to hear about your life. I really like to see your chats from your kitchen btw. And yes all of us struggle from time to time. Hang in there. Hope to see you here in Vegas.
You being honest about what you're going through not only helps you. But it also helps others that they are afraid to talk about themselves. So I see it as saving lives in the moment. You're right on point because I deal with chemical addiction it's not always easy. But the more that talk about personal struggles the better I feel about myself. Also remember that we are only as sick as our secrets that we hold on to in our lives. I've been clean for over 35 years and it's been a one day at a time process for me and journey through it has given me a positive influence on my life. Sometimes we just need to slow down and enjoy the blessings that we have been given today. Change in routine is not comfortable but necessary to grow in our lives. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and feelings with UT today.
Lex that was an awesome video!
As a person who tries always to be discipline with he’s goals and not relay on motivation, your story share was a huge motivation boost.
I want to wish you a huge run good in Vegas, you became my favorite poker vlog over Mariano and rampage.
Take care brother!❤
Lex, yes, your open honesty is a motivation for me. My problems are simpler to deal with in that I just want to feel good about my life. I know what I need to do to achieve more of that, but sometimes I just do more of the old behaviors. I have made a lot of progress in the last year, the motivation you just gave me will help me choose to do more of the things that I think make me feel better. Hope you have great exercise and events in Vegas and run good. Oh yes, Lex, your videos are great.
Thanks for the honesty and openness. I like your approach plan for this Vegas trip. Be well
Very authentic. Thanks Lex.
Big props for opening yourself up and keeping it real. Love your videos.
Man i feel you there with the anxiety and depression. I dont play poker much or gamble at all but i work in the restaurant business so 8-10 hour days as a bartender puts a toll on me. Been doing it for 20 years now and now being 41 if i could highlight my carrer it would be an effing roller coaster. Cant wait till the next video man! Love the content
Thanks so much, Lex for being open and even using this platform for accountability. I too struggle with mental health and depression having highs and lows just like you. I lived in Vegas for a time playing professionally and hiking really helped me. There is some amazing hiking in Vegas both at Red Rock Canyon and Fire of Valley state park. During the summer you can go up to Mt. Charleston where it’s a nice 75 degrees when it’s well over 100 in the Vegas valley. I recently moved to Florida and have struggled to find good hiking where I don’t get eaten alive by mosquitoes. I play at Card House St. Lucie so I’ll say hi if you play there again.
We hear u man your bluffs are top tier idk how I could ever turn every hand I was dealt for 45 mins into a bluff your just the greatest ever
Thank you for sharing this Lex, keep ur chin up man. Sometimes life gets you down for no reason at all, anxiety is very real and millions deal with it. It’s important to have a healthy lifestyle like ur speaking about. Great video. GL in Vegas
Praying for you Lex keep crushing it on the table but hope your personal life continues to thrive and excel bud Love your videos you're the man.
Lex! I like You very much. Playing poker for a living is fundamentally mentally taxing. I've been following your channel almost since the beginning. You seem like a balanced person to me. Thanks for your many videos!
Merry Christmas! Artur from Hungary 🙂
Good luck, Lex you've got a lot of heart, mate!
Thank you for talking depression is very difficult to speak to someone it is déficit sometime thank you for always speaking from your heart
Dam. Thanks for being so honest Lex. I have a ton of respect for keeping it real. Love you man.
That's great Lex being open and honest on your feelings
Great stuff! I do appreciate the honesty and the transparency you bring to your channel. I am also from Fl. Mia. Not much of a poker player, but enjoy watching your vlogs as well other poker volgers. I find keeping on a schedule helps me stay focus. Including eating well and exercising. I do find myself deviating from time to time and thats ok. Like, cheat meals and laziness. Trying to talk the talk and walk the walk gets hard sometimes. Getting and different prospective dose help ahd thanks for sharing. Peace my Brother...!
Extraordinary ending to your video Lex. Although I do not struggle mentally at all in these regards, (anxiety/depression), my #4 27 year old Son (who I love and adore dearly does) and my heart hurts when he feels this way. I’m so proud of your journey and commitment that’s shared through your vlog. It’s inspirational and I now believe that’s it a bit more. Prayers for your success and happiness my friend. “LET’S GO!”
I doubt you’ll see this message bro. But thank you for opening up at the end of the video. I feel the same sometimes and suffer from depression randomly as well. One day at a time Lex. Been watching n supporting the channel for a while now, and you’ve become one of my favorite creators for poker. Love how real you always keep it bro. Love
You the man Lex! Keep it up brother.
I appreciate your statements at the end of your vlog. I am in a very similar position and it's nice to hear someone keeping it 100. Much respect
Watched every second of your outro. Mad respect for sharing your ‘off camera’ world. Thank you. Would love to hear about your unpoker adventures in Vegas!
I go through the same things and people are always surprised when I tell them of my issues. I'm glad you shared with us and I hope you can find some peace. Also if you've never been you need to visit Valley of Fire about an hour east of LV. My favorite desert hiking spot.
Thanks for sharing your feelings Lex. I lot of what you brought up just happened to me, as I spent six days in Vegas playing the WPT Prime event and cash games. Over those six days I played over 70 hours of poker, and like you it took a mental toll on me, that I am still dealing with 5 days later. Take care of yourself while you are out there.
Thank for putting urself out there, if u can't say it u can't fix it, so many suffer with the same thing need to hear they r not alone & there is hope, keep working on it & try to stay😁 positive
Keep up the work on yourself! It's not easy but the work pays off. Nice video and good job working on you!
Great that you’re showing the full picture, as well as explaining the rationale for your game.
Like most bloggers, you show your wins and loses in the night, but not the full lifestyle. How many hours per week, how much time planning, lack of sleep, the reality of playing poker for a living.
I’m struggling with mental health illness too. I e never had swings this intense. I’m battling, asking for help, and praying like heck. I hope y’all can have happy holidays. God bless.
Great video Lex. This is your CZcams, use your platform as you decide. It’s good to be transparent about what CZcams sees vs what you actually go through.
I dont think i could ever do a youtube channel where i talk a lot. It would definitely not be the true me.
Im 46 born and raised in Florida. I will say try and have kids soon. I dont have any and thats what life is truly about. When you get to my age you really start to feel empty without kids.
Bingo. Get married, have kids, stay married.
Mental health is super important. Prioritize nutrition and exercise and it makes the battles must easier to overcome. Keep up the good work lex
Excellent realization. Good on ya.
Depression is such a beast, I struggled with terrible depression for many years, I found my footing and didn’t look back. Although there’s so much more than can be put in a CZcams comment. I love your vlogs and honesty is great. Your inspiring when it comes to poker. Have you ever tried acupuncture? It’s helped me these last years with depression and healing. Peace ✌️
Thanks for putting out some of the most entertaining and interesting poker vlogs. Your “run it twice” comment put a big smile on my face! Your humor and honesty is so appreciated!
Thanks Brother
The llama mask was hilarious 😂😂
luv the vids...keep em coming....battling bipolar is a nightmare...if u can avoid getting on meds like klonopin or xanax for anxiety and too many to name for depression, u are way better off....the flipside is that some people are just chemically inbalanced and need medication....last thing, if you decide u dont wanna be on meds anymore, the detox off benzos really sux
Poker is fun to watch and play, but life is real. And it can be real hard. Good for you to talk about it openly. #transparency
Bro, I feel you with the mental challenges. It’s the state of the world. I feel like you are a positive, real person and wish you all the luck. On and off the felt. And ya, Vegas is a meat grinder.
Definity a good idea to get outdoors anytime your are not feeling well mentally. I love the fresh air, the physical activity, and getting away from the screens in my house.
Best of luck in Vegas. Keep that healthy positive mindset. Don’t let Vegas take you down that dark path. Looking forward to seeing the life beyond the poker table.
Thanks for keeping it real! Be healthy and find the good balance! thanks for the Llama mask laughs.
I appreciate your honesty.
Thanks for sharing your struggles with depression. It helps to verbalize the issue verses not wanting people to know. Diet, good friends who make you laugh hopefully will help.
Depression is just a mindset
@@zachmoore4454no. It's a crippling disease. Recovering from depression is about mind set, but even then support is priceless.
@@zachmoore4454wrong
Good stuff man, best of luck to you in Vegas. I'm sure you'll enjoy it more this time.
Hey Lex, so K10 is your new favorite hand, I guess? Lol. Great vlog, thanks for your honesty, and yes, we all have "life swings", whether in poker, family, jobs, or elsewhere. The best way to combat depression, etc. I've found is to: 1. Have God in your life and try to follow his scriptures. 2. Have good friends and family around you to support you. 3. Be humble, generous, gracious, accountable, and not prideful. 4. Stay active, make sure you get some sunshine daily, as it def. can help with your mood. Seems by what you said that you're on the right track to make some positive changes. Take care, Bill
Been watching you since the beginning. Never comment. I like your content because it's real. You play like I do mostly. Im a contractor and have often considered trying to play professional but what holds me back is the atmosphere that goes with game. It is more negative in these rooms than positive. Everyone is having fun and all but deep down it's people trying to get your money and when their losing the mood changes. Plus your in a casino surrounded by all sorts of gamblers so the energy is bad. It weighs on you. After 8 hrs in that environment I feel terrible win or lose. To spend all week in it will become an anchor on your spiritual evolution. The happiest people I know are broke and spend all day helping others. Not that I'm innocent of the lifestyle but simply put gamblers are often more of a selfish crowd
Great vlog brotha
Thanks for the great content. Keep up the good work and stick with your plan to stay healthy in Vegas.
@16:27 "He's got a premium holding" 😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣 K5 off......
HAHA YOU SAID IT ON THE TURN 💜💪🏼
Thanks for opening up. Grind is hard and stressful. I also feel this way if I play long hours. The only way that works for me is many short 3-6 hours sessions and a lot of sport, being outside, hanging out with friends and family. It can be easily explained on a hormone level- you seat all day inside, consume bad food, not moving much. So don’t worry it’s very relatively easy to fix. It’s all about balance.
Very much appreciate the last few minutes of this video! Many people have metal health issues they hide!
Talking about your mental health is a move in the right direction.. I've gone through this and yet people thought I was in control..I call it survival mode..so all the best
P.s. exercise helps with the uncertainty uncertainty
Love seeing the bluffs go through!
Hey Lex. Appreciate you sharing your mental health struggles. I honestly never would have known if you hadn't talked about it because you hide it very well. I too, am a poker player (and gambler in general) that suffers from mental health issues, including very severe anxiety, depression and the least fun of all Tourette's Syndrome (I have a very noticeable twitch in my neck). While I love playing live poker, I can never say I'm super comfortable sitting around a table full of other people. I actually do everything I can to not draw attention to myself (though I can often see people staring at me when my twitch flares up). While I would love to just be one of the guys sitting there laughing and joking and being relaxed, my severe anxiety and twitch keeps me from doing so. If I do try to converse (which is rare) I usually come across as awkward and off-putting to most people since my anxiety prevents me from being myself, so in general I just sit there quietly and try to focus on the game. The funny thing is, if I have enough alcohol and have a good buzz going on, I actually can function like a normal human being at the table, but of course it sucks I have to get to that point just to have normal interactions (not to mention kind of detrimental to my game). I remember once Brad Owen sat to my left and I wanted to say something like "love your vlogs man", but I was just too frozen with fear to do so. Anyways, I just thought I'd share. Mental health struggles are definitely no fun.
I LOVE THE LAMA MASK PART!!!
Hi Lex, enjoy watching your videos, and especially enjoyed that last part where you kept it real regarding your mental health struggles.
I struggle with similar issues, and I know this is probably not what you or any of your viewers want to hear, but I eventually came to the difficult conclusion that poker (or any sort of gambling in general) was NOT helping. It's a very strange game that can be extremely cruel and many times highly illogical (like the big T-1000 hand). I also totally get what you are saying about Vegas. They call it Sin City for a reason. It's all superficial, materialistic garbage. Everyone seems so happy, there is beauty all around you, yet it leaves you feeling so empty inside somehow. I have been 5 times now, and the last time left me feeling so horrible I told myself it would be a long time before I ever went back, if ever. I came to the realization that I really don't enjoy gambling, I only enjoy winning. No matter how good you become at poker, no one wins every session. Only the select few are even positive EV in the long run.
I also am single without children and know I should spend less time gambling and more time working on improving myself and my social life. Also my Christian faith helps stabilize my depression and improve my life perspective.
Good luck man, I hope you can figure out something that works for you. I will pray for you. Blessings from Jacksonville, FL. Feel free to hollar at me if you are go to Best Bet and need someone in your cheering section.