Depression Treatment Explained: How Antidepressants Work and Why They’re Not a Weakness

Why is there still so much resistance to taking antidepressants when they can be life-changing for people living with depression? In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we talk with Michael Landsberg, founder of the mental health initiative Sick Not Weak, about his personal journey with depression, the stigma surrounding antidepressants, and why acknowledging depression as an illness — not a weakness — is the first step toward recovery.

Through candid stories, we explore what it feels like to live with untreated depression, how to recognize its subtle onset, and the importance of seeking professional help. Michael’s message is clear: taking medication for depression is no different than taking medication for any other health condition. By sharing openly, we help break stigma, shorten the time it takes for others to get help, and remind each other that depression is treatable and hope is real.

Primary Topics Covered:

• The stigma around antidepressants and why many resist medication
• Michael Landsberg’s personal experience with anxiety, depression, and treatment
• How to recognize the often subtle onset of depression symptoms
• Why seeking treatment early makes recovery more likely
• The power of shared stories to fight stigma and isolation
• How friends and family can notice changes and start supportive conversations

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction: About Giving Voice to Depression and today’s topic
01:01 – Listener question: Why do people resist antidepressants?
02:28 – Starting the conversation: Stigma around depression treatment
04:29 – Michael Landsberg shares his early anxiety and later depression
06:20 – Realizing “sick, not weak” and building a movement around it
08:33 – The turning point: Seeing a psychiatrist for the first time
10:45 – Why depression can creep in so slowly it goes unnoticed
12:05 – How family and friends can step in when someone isn’t themselves
13:33 – The isolation of depression vs. the reality of millions sharing it
15:14 – The power of shared stories to normalize treatment and hope
16:16 – Hosts reflect on their own journeys and the importance of naming experiences
17:09 – Medication, recovery, and the risks of going on/off without support
18:00 – Closing reflections: If you’re struggling, speak up. If someone else is, listen up.

Explore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.com
Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/
Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/