Depression is devastating—but it can also change the way we see ourselves and the world. In this episode, UK mental health advocate Tom Wavre shares the surprising lessons he has learned from living with depression. From discovering inner strength to challenging stigma, Tom reframes his experience into one of growth, empathy, and resilience.

If you’re struggling, this conversation offers hope and perspective: you are not alone, and healing—while difficult—is possible.

Primary Topics Covered:

Self-awareness and understanding personal triggers
The reality of stigma—internal and external
The power of opening up about mental health
Recognizing strength in surviving depression
Community, empathy, and helping others
Turning depression into a source of resilience and advocacy

Timestamps:

00:40 – Why everyone’s depression story is unique but connected
01:30 – Introducing Tom Wavre and his article Eight Ways I’m Grateful for My Depression
02:48 – Making meaning from suffering: finding positivity in pain
03:17 – Lesson 1: Knowing yourself more deeply through depression
04:00 – Lesson 2: Understanding the true nature of stigma
05:27 – Lesson 3: The importance of opening up
06:39 – Lesson 4: Discovering unexpected inner strength
08:13 – Lesson 5: Realizing you’re not alone
09:22 – Lesson 6: Developing empathy through struggle
09:36 – Lesson 7: Helping others through lived experience
10:34 – Lesson 8: Becoming a stronger, more compassionate person
12:17 – The possibility of recovery, even when it feels impossible
14:29 – Tom’s advocacy work and resources for mental health

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What Depression Taught Me: Life Lessons, Resilience, and Hope for Recovery