Living with Depression and Addiction: Honest Talk on Sobriety, Suicide, and Recovery

What happens when depression, addiction, and suicidal thoughts collide?

In this candid episode, comedian and rapper Zane Thomas shares how he talks back to the “bully” in his head, finds relief in humor, and navigates the ups and downs of bipolar disorder and substance use. With refreshing honesty, Zane opens up about sobriety, relapse, and how conversations—both online and in person—can provide lifesaving support.

This episode is a reminder that recovery isn’t about perfection. It’s about connection, resilience, and learning to keep trying—even when depression tells you not to.

Link to Zane's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zanetherapper/

Primary Topics Covered:

• Depression’s repeating negative thoughts and how to “talk back”
• Using humor as a coping tool during depressive episodes
• The role of online communities in providing support
• Bipolar disorder and the challenges of internal vs. external triggers
• The power of the word “yet” in recovery and self-compassion
• How addiction and substance abuse interact with mental health
• Zane’s experience with crystal meth, alcohol, and recovery setbacks
• Why offering support before a crisis matters
• Reframing the way we talk about suicide and stigma

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction and podcast mission  
02:27 – Why Zane Thomas’ voice stood out on social media  
03:51 – Helping a suicidal friend by asking better questions  
05:05 – Talking back to depression’s repetitive thoughts  
06:42 – Seeing depression as a bully we can challenge  
07:31 – Humor as a coping tool in the darkest moments  
09:21 – The role of online communities and support groups  
09:48 – External vs. internal triggers of depression  
11:20 – The power of the word “yet” in recovery  
12:25 – How mental health challenges shaped Zane’s art  
13:17 – Substance use, coping, and losing a friend  
14:18 – Alcohol, bipolar disorder, and emotional volatility  
15:38 – Addiction as a gamble with mental health  
16:43 – Why speaking openly reduces shame and stigma  
17:44 – The best question to ask someone struggling: “What are you excited for?”  
18:29 – The importance of real, judgment-free conversations  
19:25 – Language matters: why we say “died by suicide” instead of “committed”  
20:04 – Closing reflections and reminder to keep trying  

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