Living with Depression: Why Talking Openly Can Be the First Step to Healing

What happens when we finally speak the truth about depression? In this episode of SelfWork, Dr. Margaret sits down with Terry McGuire, former journalist and co-creator of the podcast Giving Voice to Depression. Terry shares her deeply personal journey of living with depression, the years she lost to silence and stigma, and why she chose to dedicate her career to amplifying the voices of others who struggle.

Listeners will learn how storytelling reduces shame, why recognizing early warning signs matters, and how talking openly can strengthen family bonds and save lives. Whether you’ve experienced depression yourself or love someone who has, this episode is a powerful reminder that you are not alone—and healing begins when we speak out.

Primary Topics Covered

• Terry McGuire’s lifelong journey with depression and her turning point in her 50s
• How stigma and silence keep people from getting help
• Why “naming” depression is crucial for recovery
• The mission behind the Giving Voice to Depression podcast
• Early warning signs of depression—and how to recognize them
• The healing power of storytelling and peer support
• Breaking myths about talking openly about suicide

Timestamps

00:00 - Introduction and sponsor message
 03:00 - Meet Terry McGuire: journalist, advocate, and mental health storyteller
 07:00 - Early signs of depression and family silence
 10:30 - Terry’s darkest period and the two years she lost to depression
 15:00 - The turning point: recognizing depression and seeking treatment
 19:00 - Why she launched Giving Voice to Depression
23:30 - Lessons learned from interviewing hundreds of people about depression
30:00 - Breaking the stigma: talking about suicide and mental health
36:00 - Stories of connection, family healing, and new understanding
42:00 - Where to find Giving Voice to Depression and how to support it
44:30 - Closing reflections from Dr. Margaret

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/