Recognizing Mental Health Warning Signs: How to Act Before a Crisis Happens

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we focus on recognizing the early warning signs of a mental health crisis — and what you can do to prevent it.

Guest Corinne shares her deeply personal story of struggling with depression during pregnancy and how reaching out for help saved her life. She introduces a simple “mental health scale” that helps her identify when things are worsening before they reach crisis levels.

We also explore practical coping strategies for depression and anxiety, including therapy, exercise, sleep, and meditation, as well as the life-saving role of connection and support.

This episode is a reminder that awareness and action can make the difference between crisis and recovery. By learning how to spot the signs and respond early, we can protect ourselves — and those we love.

Link to Corinne's article: https://qz.com/1381952/suicide-hotlines-really-do-save-lives-i-know-because-one-saved-mine/

Primary Topics Covered:

• The importance of early recognition of depression and anxiety symptoms
• Corinne’s story of calling a suicide prevention hotline
• Using the mental health scale to track wellness and risk levels
• Key coping strategies to prevent escalation into crisis
• Why connection, honesty, and empathy are essential for healing
• The role of prevention-focused mental health support

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction and framing the conversation
 01:14 - Corinne’s struggle with depression during pregnancy
 02:31 - Why sharing lived experiences is life-saving
 04:25 - The mental health “scale” as a self-monitoring tool
 05:31 - Coping strategies: therapy, exercise, sleep, meditation
 06:20 - Building trust and connection as protective factors
 07:34 - How to tell when depression turns toward crisis
 09:19 - Suicide prevention hotlines as critical lifelines
 10:44 - Breaking stigma through honesty about mental health
 12:04 - Final reflections on prevention and resilience
 13:20 - Closing thoughts and resources

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