Depression and Music: How Songwriting Helps Express Pain and Find Hope

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, singer-songwriter Demetra Prochaska shares how her journey with depression and suicidal thoughts found expression through music. From her teenage years navigating divorce, foster care, and a residential treatment program to writing her haunting song “I’m Not Okay” during the pandemic, Demetra shows how songwriting became both an outlet for pain and a pathway toward hope.

She opens up about the importance of trusted adults, the role of coping skills, and why asking for help can be an act of survival. Her story is both heartbreaking and inspiring — and her music reminds us that while depression tells us lies, hope and healing remain possible.

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

Primary Topics Covered:

• The connection between depression and music as emotional expression
• Demetra’s experience with depression starting in her teens
• The importance of trusted adults and guidance counselors
• Residential treatment and its role in her recovery
• Writing “I’m Not Okay” during the pandemic as a cry for help
• Differentiating between not wanting to live like this vs. not wanting to live
• Coping skills: reaching out, checking in with herself, and practicing self-care
• The healing and reflective power of songwriting

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to the episode and co-hosts
 02:01 - How music lyrics reflect depression
 02:49 - Introducing Demetra and her mental health journey
 03:20 - Early experiences with depression and lack of open conversation
 03:56 - Turning to trusted adults and feeling heard
 05:34 - Entering residential treatment and shifting perspectives
 07:00 - Looking back at life before treatment
 08:18 - Depression during the pandemic and unbearable lows
 09:26 - Writing the song “I’m Not Okay” as a cry for help
10:34 - Exploring suicidal ideation and the desire for change
11:45 - Holding onto hope while in pain
13:37 - Reaching out for help instead of masking
14:33 - Coping strategies and self-reflection
15:45 - Seeking reassurance and reminders of worth
17:01 - Escalating depression and need for professional support
18:12 - Lessons on asking for help and reflecting on self-worth
20:35 - Full performance of “I’m Not Okay”

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