Depression Recovery Questions: 3 Life-Changing Tools from Dr. Anita Sanz

What if the right question could shift how you see yourself, your struggles, and your recovery journey? In this farewell episode, clinical psychologist Dr. Anita Sanz shares the three most powerful questions she’s used with clients — and in her own life — to challenge the lies of depression and uncover new paths forward.

After three years as co-host of Giving Voice to Depression, Dr. Sanz leaves listeners with these tools as a parting gift: practical, hope-filled questions that can help you reframe hopelessness, break through mental ruts, and reconnect with your inner strength.

If you’re living with depression or supporting someone who is, this conversation will remind you that even the smallest shifts in perspective can open the door to recovery.

Primary Topics Covered:

• Why questions can be powerful tools in depression recovery
• The first question: What dream would you explore if you felt fully supported?
• How reframing challenges can break depression’s mental “rut”
• The second question: What if life is an adventure and not a mission?
• Why seeing life as an adventure reduces pressure and comparison
• The third question: What if I am stronger than I think I am?
• Using self-compassion and inner strength to navigate dark times
• Reflections on Dr. Sanz’s role as co-host and her farewell message of hope
• The importance of authenticity, connection, and shared stories

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction: The mission of Giving Voice to Depression  
00:32 – Dr. Anita Sanz reflects on her years of clinical practice  
01:27 – Why Anita is leaving the podcast and her farewell gift  
02:00 – Introducing three life-changing questions for mental health  
02:40 – Why powerful questions work with depression and anxiety  
04:48 – Question #1: What dream would you explore if you felt fully supported?  
07:45 – How this question helps break the mental rut of depression  
09:42 – Personal examples from Dr. Sanz’s life and work  
11:49 – Question #2: What if life is an adventure and not a mission?  
13:25 – The difference between adventures and missions in recovery  
15:41 – How shifting perspective removes pressure and comparison  
17:18 – Question #3: What if I am stronger than I think I am?  
19:19 – How this question challenges self-doubt and hopelessness  
21:41 – Dr. Sanz reflects on hope, authenticity, and connection  
22:40 – Farewell reflections and gratitude from both hosts  
24:51 – Where to follow Dr. Anita Sanz and her next adventure  
25:19 – Closing: The importance of speaking up and listening  

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