How to Recover from Depression: The Power of Taking Baby Steps

Recovery from depression can feel overwhelming—especially after years of pain, trauma, and loss. But sometimes the way forward isn’t a giant leap—it’s the smallest possible step.

In this inspiring episode, Jenni shares her 8-year battle with unrelenting depression, compounded by grief, trauma, and exhaustion. Through therapy, self-compassion, and a daily commitment to “baby steps,” she slowly rebuilt her life and rediscovered peace and joy she never thought possible.

Her story is a powerful reminder that even when depression tells you nothing will change, tiny steps forward can lead to transformation.

Jenni's Facebook page- Barefoot, Brave and Bold:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565516246115

Primary Topics Covered:

• Jenni’s 8-year struggle with chronic depression and trauma
• Why depression convinces us nothing will ever change
• The role of PTSD and EMDR therapy in her healing journey
• The importance of “baby steps” and soul rest in recovery
• Practical examples of small steps: music, reading, saying “yes” to friends
• How self-care and persistence build momentum over time
• The breakthrough moment that reignited her joy and peace
• Why recovery is ongoing maintenance, not a finish line

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction and opening reflections  
02:01 – Why even a single step can feel impossible in depression  
03:09 – Jenni’s 8-year battle with unrelenting depression  
03:35 – Losses, chronic pain, and trauma piling up  
04:45 – Depression’s exhaustion: “I had no fight in me”  
06:31 – PTSD diagnosis and starting EMDR therapy  
07:21 – Realizing the need for daily baby steps  
08:31 – Examples of baby steps: reading memoirs, music, learning  
09:12 – Saying yes to invitations instead of isolating  
09:56 – Joining therapy groups, trying yoga, traveling  
10:39 – The breakthrough moment: finding her “House of Peace”  
11:53 – Depression disappears after consistent baby steps  
13:11 – Why maintenance and daily self-care remain essential  
13:46 – Living joyfully and peacefully after recovery  
14:43 – Jenni’s message to those who feel hopeless  
17:21 – Reflections: why baby steps and hope are essential  
20:17 – Believing things can get better as a survival tool  
22:55 – The cumulative power of small daily choices  
24:22 – Final reflections: hope and recovery are real  

Explore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.com
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