How Music Helps with Depression: Turning Pain, Anxiety, and Struggles into Songs

In this powerful episode of Giving Voice to Depression, musician Demetra Prochaska shares her deeply personal story of living with depression and how songwriting became both a survival tool and a source of hope.

From her teenage years marked by family struggles, foster care, and residential treatment, to writing her song “I’m Not Okay” during the isolation of the pandemic, Demetra opens up about how music gave voice to emotions she couldn’t express otherwise.

Her story highlights the difference between not wanting to live and not wanting to live like this, the importance of reaching out for help, and how creative expression can offer both reflection and healing.

Whether you’re living with depression, supporting someone who is, or searching for healthy coping strategies, this conversation offers honesty, vulnerability, and a reminder that you are not alone.

Link to Demetra's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCijatOUHQY9g-hjS4_mBzqQ

Primary Topics Covered:

• How music and songwriting can help express depression and anxiety
• Demetra’s early experiences with depression as a teenager
• The importance of trusted adults, teachers, and counselors
• Residential treatment as a turning point in her recovery journey
• The story behind “I’m Not Okay” and writing through the pandemic
• Understanding suicidal ideation and the desire for change
• Practical coping skills: self-reflection, reaching out, and self-care
• The role of creative outlets in healing and recovery

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction and context for the episode
 02:01 - Music as a mirror for depression and emotions
 02:49 - Demetra’s story begins: early signs of depression
 03:20 - Struggles in teen years and lack of open conversation about mental health
 03:56 - Finding guidance and support from trusted adults
 05:34 - Entering residential treatment and shifting her outlook
 07:00 - Reflecting on life before receiving help
 08:18 - Depression and struggles during the pandemic
 09:26 - Writing “I’m Not Okay” as a cry for help
10:34 - Suicidal thoughts: wanting change vs. not wanting life to end
11:45 - Holding onto hope while facing deep depression
13:37 - The importance of reaching out instead of masking pain
14:33 - Coping strategies and checking in with herself
15:45 - Seeking reassurance and reminders of self-worth
17:01 - Recognizing when professional help is needed
18:12 - Lessons on self-worth, asking for help, and reflection
20:35 - Full performance of “I’m Not Okay”

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