Overcoming Depression with Art and Music: A Journey of Hope

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, musician Matt Steady opens up about his first experience with depression, how he spent years in the fog before recognizing it, and the surprising way he found his path out—through music and creativity.

Matt shares his personal journey of hiding his pain, learning to recognize the signs, and ultimately reclaiming control through songwriting. He also discusses his song “Black Dog,” inspired by Winston Churchill’s famous metaphor for depression, and why creating art can provide hope, healing, and empowerment for those battling mental illness.

Whether you’re looking for practical coping strategies or inspiration from lived experience, this conversation shows that recovery is possible—and creativity can be a powerful ally in mental health.

Link to Matt Steady's website: www.mattsteady.com

Primary Topics Covered:

• The challenges of recognizing depression when you’re living in it.
• What depression “fog” feels like and how it impacts daily life.
• Why many people hide their symptoms and don’t talk about depression.
• The role of creativity and music in managing depression.
• Matt’s song “Black Dog” and the symbolism behind it.
• How reclaiming control through art can help recovery.
• A message of hope: depression can lift, and healing is possible.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to the episode and hosts Bridget & Terri
 01:26 - Introducing guest Matt Steady and his music
 02:29 - Why Matt reluctantly chose to share his story
 03:34 - First experience with depression at age 30
 04:58 - What living in the depression “fog” felt like
 05:44 - Signs of depression visible in old photos
 06:31 - Why labeling depression matters for seeking help
 07:11 - Blaming others vs. realizing it was internal
 07:46 - How Matt would approach depression differently now
 08:23 - Turning to music as a way out of depression
 09:56 - Creativity as a form of control and healing
 10:22 - How music interrupted depression’s repetitive thoughts
 10:47 - Writing “Black Dog” as a revenge song against depression
11:47 - Matt’s message of hope: recovery is possible
12:30 - Closing reflections and thanks

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