Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Hope: Rebecca Lombardo’s Decade of Progress

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we revisit the powerful story of author and advocate Rebecca Lombardo, who has openly shared her struggles with bipolar disorder, depression, and suicidality. Now 10 years removed from her last hospitalization and self-harm attempt, Rebecca reflects on her growth, resilience, and the coping strategies that have helped her heal.

She discusses the importance of self-awareness, positive self-talk, and open communication with loved ones, as well as the role her husband and community have played in her journey. Rebecca also highlights the need to recognize progress—no matter how small—and the ongoing work of fighting stigma.

This rerun is a reminder that while depression can distort our perspective, recovery and hope are possible.

Primary Topics Covered:

• Why it’s often hard to recognize progress while living with depression or bipolar disorder
• Rebecca’s reflections on 10 years without hospitalization or self-harm
• The role of loved ones in supporting recovery
• Positive self-talk, therapy, and self-awareness as essential coping strategies
• How writing, advocacy, and community helped Rebecca reduce shame and find purpose
• The importance of self-care and redefining what “success” looks like in recovery

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to the episode and the power of hope
 01:25 – Guest introduction: Rebecca Lombardo’s return update
 03:18 – Reflecting on a decade since her last hospitalization
 04:25 – The ongoing challenge of living with bipolar disorder
 05:29 – Why negative thoughts feel easier to believe than positive ones
 07:05 – Celebrating 10 years of progress and accomplishments
 08:01 – Feeling like a burden vs. recognizing depression’s lies
 09:23 – Positive self-talk and open communication with loved ones
 10:30 – The impact of her past suicide attempt on her husband
 11:48 – Choosing to live for herself as well as others
 12:29 – The work beyond medication: therapy, self-awareness, and learning
 13:58 – Helping others through advocacy and writing
 15:05 – Hopes for the next decade of life and advocacy
 16:54 – Advice for listeners currently struggling
 18:44 – Rebecca’s blog reflections and practical tools for healing
 19:21 – Dr. Anita Sanz on the importance of therapy beyond medication
 22:01 – Closing remarks and upcoming Suicide Prevention Awareness Month focus

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