Giving Voice to Depression

In this powerful episode of Giving Voice to Depression, J.J. Singleton shares his journey of living with terminal colorectal cancer and battling depression. After enduring over 170 rounds of chemotherapy, J.J. opens up about the toll cancer has taken not just on his body but on his mental health. He discusses the stigma men face in expressing vulnerability, his initial resistance to therapy, and the life-changing benefits of opening up and seeking professional support. J.J.’s story is one of resilience, honesty, and hope — a reminder that healing is both a physical and emotional process.He also highlights the importance of peer support, distraction, and advocacy, showing that even in the darkest times, connection and conversation can make a life-saving difference.Primary Topics Covered:J.J. Singleton’s journey with terminal colorectal cancerThe connection between cancer and depressionStigma around men’s mental health and vulnerabilityThe role of therapy in coping with suicidal thoughtsTools for resilience: peer support, therapy, and distractionAdvocating for mental health awareness in cancer careTimestamps:00:00 Intro to Giving Voice to Depression 02:26 Introducing guest J.J. Singleton and his cancer journey 03:34 The impact of cancer on men’s mental health 04:55 How cancer and treatment triggered depression and PTSD 06:36 Learning to shift mindset and seek support 07:22 Realizing the importance of therapy 08:13 How therapy helped J.J. cope with suicidal thoughts 09:48 Breaking stigma around talking about mental health 11:25 The unseen mental toll of cancer treatment 11:45 Using distraction and peer support as coping tools 13:01 Why J.J. advocates for mental health awareness in cancer care 13:55 How awareness could have helped earlier in his journey 14:22 J.J.’s motivation for sharing his story publicly 15:01 From darkest places to speaking out about healing 15:32 Reflections on mind-body connection in illness 16:22 The cost of silence and repression in mental health struggles 17:05 Closing thoughts and resources, including manuptocancer.comExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Dr. David Jacobi of Rogers Behavioral Health explains how Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) works as an evidence-based treatment for depression. Together with hosts Terry and Anita, Dr. Jacobi breaks down the CBT “triangle” of emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, and explains why behavioral activation — doing something different, even small — can help break the cycle of depression.Listeners will learn how CBT can reduce avoidance, reintroduce pleasure and valued activities, and provide tools to support both self-healing and loved ones. This conversation highlights why no step is too small when moving toward recovery and how we can give ourselves the help we need.Primary Topics Covered:What Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is and why it worksThe CBT triangle: thoughts, emotions, and behaviorsHow behavioral activation helps reduce depression symptomsThe importance of routine, pleasurable, and valued activitiesThe role of support systems without enabling avoidanceMedication as a tool alongside CBT practicesWhy small steps matter in recoveryTimestamps:00:00 Intro to the episode 01:25 What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)? 02:17 The CBT triangle: emotions, thoughts, and behaviors 03:48 How CBT changes depressive thoughts and behaviors 05:13 Behavioral activation and why doing something matters 06:24 Avoidance patterns and how they maintain depression 07:22 Active coping vs avoidance 08:28 Routine, pleasurable, and valued activities in recovery 10:05 How small actions build momentum out of depression 11:11 Motivation follows action, not the other way around 12:20 The importance of support and accountability 12:57 Symptom accommodation: helping vs enabling 14:13 Encouraging activation while offering empathy 14:42 Medications as another tool in recovery 15:34 Combining CBT, medication, and daily actions 16:14 Why no step is too small in depression recovery 17:24 Supporting yourself with encouragement and patience 17:52 Closing thoughts and takeawaysExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Dr. Anita Sanz joins Terry and Carly to discuss the importance of seeking therapy as a proactive step for mental health, not just during times of crisis. Together, they break down what therapy actually looks like, why the stigma around it persists, and how people can find the right therapist for their needs. From analogies comparing therapy to car repair and physical therapy, to tackling fears around stigma and suicidal thoughts, this episode provides insight and encouragement for anyone considering therapy.Listeners will gain clarity on when to seek help, what to expect in sessions, and why proactive therapy can lead to better outcomes.Primary Topics Covered:Why therapy should be proactive, not just reactiveThe stigma surrounding therapy and mental health careHow to know when it’s time to seek therapyWhat to expect in a therapy sessionHow to find a therapist that’s the right fitThe importance of being honest with your therapistAddressing suicidal thoughts in therapyHow therapy works beyond the sessionTimestamps: 00:00 Intro 01:26 Why we treat physical health differently than mental health 02:28 What really happens in therapy 03:11 Knowing when it’s time to seek help 04:21 Why therapy works better before things get really bad 05:42 Changing generational attitudes toward therapy 07:26 Stigma and resistance to therapy 09:37 The healthiest people go to therapy 10:34 Using therapy proactively for stressors and grief 11:09 How to choose the right therapist 12:55 Free consultations and therapist shopping 13:53 What to say in your first session 15:16 Asking how a therapist will work with you 15:56 Why honesty with your therapist matters 17:18 How long therapy lasts and knowing when you’re “done” 19:02 Discussing suicidal thoughts with a therapist 21:51 Why therapy requires effort outside of sessions 23:33 Listener question on learned helplessness and negative thought patterns 25:49 ClosingExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

One caring adult can make the difference between life and death.In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Chloe shares how her teacher noticed warning signs of her depression and suicidal thoughts — and stepped in to have a direct, lifesaving conversation.Her story is a powerful reminder that teachers, coaches, and mentors play a critical role in suicide prevention. By noticing changes in behavior, asking hard questions, and showing compassion, educators can literally save lives.This is not just Chloe’s story — it’s a call to action for all of us to notice, care, and step in.Primary Topics Covered:Chloe’s early struggles with depression and suicidal thoughtsHow masking and “joking” hid her true painThe panic attack that exposed her strugglesThe pivotal role of her PE teacher in noticing signs and stepping inWhy asking directly about suicide saves livesThe harm of stigma and unhelpful hospital responsesRecovery, hope, and finding color again after depressionHow Chloe now coaches student athletes with mental health in mindThe “healing circle” of giving back what was once given to herPractical suicide prevention steps anyone can takeTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction  02:01 – “The Boy and the Starfish” story and why one action matters  02:22 – Meet Chloe: six years suicide attempt free  03:20 – Depression starting at age 11 and masking pain  04:21 – Panic attack at age 16 exposes struggles  05:20 – A teacher steps in and notices  06:27 – Believing pain would never end  07:01 – Suicide attempt and unhelpful hospital response  08:33 – Hope returns: seeing the world in color again  09:29 – Second crisis moment: teacher’s direct intervention  10:33 – How one conversation saved her life  11:18 – Asking directly about suicide: why it matters  13:02 – Recognizing others’ silent struggles  14:00 – Walking 220 miles for mental health awareness  14:32 – Moving to the U.S. on a soccer scholarship  15:45 – Becoming a coach: giving back to student athletes  17:24 – Closing reflections: the circle of hope and healing  20:49 – The responsibility of teachers, coaches, and mentors  22:08 – How peers also play a role in noticing warning signs  24:03 – Closing gratitude to educators, mentors, and youth supporters  Explore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Depression can convince us that healing is impossible. But recovery doesn’t come all at once — it shows up in small, powerful signs of change.In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Cara McErlain from Belfast shares her lived experience of depression, therapy, and gradual healing. She opens up about the darkest moments of her journey and the hopeful signs that showed her recovery was possible: flashes of joy, moments of connection, and learning to see herself with compassion.If you’ve ever wondered what recovery from depression looks like, or how to recognize the signs of healing, Cara’s story offers both validation and hope.Primary Topics CoveredWhat recovering from depression can look like in real lifeThe difference between sadness, numbness, and depressionCara’s personal story of living with depression since her teensWhy therapy helped validate her trauma and shift her perspectiveSigns of healing: small “flashes of light” in daily lifeCoping strategies: journaling, photography, and peer supportHow depression lies and distorts memories of happinessWhy healing is not linear — setbacks are part of recoveryThe importance of lived experience and peer validationReframing recovery as gradual signs of hope and healingTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction  02:00 – Cara’s lived experience with depression  03:08 – Finding euphoric joy after deep depression  04:24 – Sadness vs numbness: what depression really feels like  05:29 – Living with depression since adolescence  06:21 – The silence around mental health while growing up  07:12 – Therapy: validating trauma and reframing her story  09:36 – Naming trauma and its healing power  10:09 – The turning point: reaching out for help  12:01 – Beginning therapy during her lowest point  13:37 – Recovery isn’t linear: ups and downs of the journey  14:45 – Recognizing “flashes of light” as signs of healing  15:47 – Journaling and photography as coping tools  16:38 – Why hearing “it gets better” matters  18:52 – Holding on through the darkest times  20:11 – Reframing small daily moments as recovery  22:38 – Closing reflections: hope after depression  Explore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Depression doesn’t just impact mood — it can also steal your memories of joy. In this episode, mental health advocate and author Natasha Tracy shares her lived experience with bipolar depression and how it robs her of the ability to recall happy times. She explains the cruel cycle of memory loss and depression, how “state memory” keeps us trapped in negative thought patterns, and practical strategies for holding on to hope even when your brain tells you otherwise.If you’ve ever wondered why depression makes it feel like you’ve never been happy — and what you can do about it — this conversation offers both understanding and tools for resilience.Primary Topics CoveredHow depression affects memory and why happy memories fadeNatasha’s personal journey with bipolar depression and long-term depressive episodesThe concept of state memory and how it fuels hopelessnessWhy depression “lies” and distorts emotional recallPractical strategies for coping when good memories feel erasedUsing tools like letters, photos, and self-recorded videos to preserve hopeThe importance of separating yourself from depression and “talking back” to its liesCreative hacks from listeners who shared their own memory-preserving techniquesTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction01:14 – Depression’s impact on memory, according to Harvard research02:13 – Why depression erases happy memories first02:50 – Guest Natasha Tracy shares her personal story with depression04:17 – Living with prolonged depressive episodes despite treatment05:34 – The experience of memory loss during deep depression06:18 – How depression removes hope by erasing good memories07:12 – The concept of state memory: remembering only what matches your current mood08:33 – Depression as a “trickster” that lies to the brain10:30 – How depression attacks you using your own voice11:50 – Audience reflections on losing happy memories12:43 – Creative hacks: asking friends to recall happy memories13:13 – Building memory boxes and recording video messages to yourself14:35 – Why your own voice can be the most convincing against depression15:31 – Two critical strategies for surviving deep depression17:12 – Hosts reflect on recording messages to their future selves21:19 – Why this advice is different from standard mental health strategies24:22 – The isolating filter of depression that blocks gratitude and joy25:15 – Pop culture parallels: Dementors from Harry Potter and depression28:46 – Using photos, letters, and reminders as “lifelines” in depression29:29 – Closing reflections and thanksExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

When people talk about maternal mental health, postpartum depression often gets the spotlight. But what about the depression that begins during pregnancy?In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Isabelle shares her experience with antepartum depression — the deep sadness, hopelessness, and stigma she felt while expecting both of her children. She describes how little people talk about depression during pregnancy, why the shame is so heavy, and how her ongoing recovery looks years later.With honesty, reflection, and a dose of Buddhist wisdom, Isabelle opens up about coping strategies, managing depression like a chronic condition, and how friends and community support can help lighten the weight. If you or someone you love is struggling with depression during pregnancy, this story reminds you that you are not alone — and healing is possible.Primary Topics Covered:What antepartum depression is and why it’s rarely discussedIsabelle’s experience of depression during both pregnanciesThe difference between postpartum and antepartum depressionThe stigma of being depressed during pregnancyHow hormones, fear, and expectations contribute to maternal depressionDepression as a lifelong condition to be managedCoping strategies: therapy, exercise, childcare support, and communityThe role of perspective: learning to say “this will pass”Why hearing other people’s stories can make depression less isolatingTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction: Maternal Mental Health Month  01:31 – What is antepartum depression?  02:07 – Isabelle shares her story of depression during pregnancy  02:30 – The stigma of saying “I’m depressed while pregnant”  02:48 – Why maternal depression is rarely discussed  03:32 – Hormones, fear, and the reality of pregnancy  04:13 – Postpartum depression after her first child  04:22 – A different experience during second pregnancy  04:57 – Depression as a managed, chronic condition  05:21 – Coping strategies: therapy, exercise, childcare support  05:33 – How depression distorts reality and emotions  06:10 – Learning to recognize “bad days” as temporary  06:57 – The power of hearing others’ stories  07:46 – Accepting the full spectrum of emotions  07:56 – Buddhist practice: sitting with depression until it passes  08:32 – Writing letters to yourself during good times  09:48 – Giving voice to depression as a way of separating from it  10:22 – How pregnancy reshapes identity and mental health  10:53 – Closing reflections on maternal depression and hope  Explore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

What happens when the pain of childhood is never spoken aloud — or validated? For Trina Kennedy, it meant carrying an invisible backpack of heavy rocks: unresolved grief, shame, and loneliness. That burden grew into depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Trina shares her journey of living with the weight of childhood trauma — and how finding safe spaces, supportive adults, and therapy helped her begin to unpack it. Alongside reflections from hosts Terry and Carly, this conversation explores the difference between stress and trauma, why validation matters so deeply, and how healing is possible through connection and post-traumatic growth.If you’ve ever wondered about the connection between childhood trauma and depression, or struggled to make sense of unspoken pain, Trina’s story will remind you: you are not alone, and healing is possible.Link to Trina's website: https://trinaleekennedy.ca/Primary Topics CoveredThe link between childhood trauma and depressionWhy unspoken pain becomes a lifelong burdenThe “backpack of rocks” metaphor for unresolved emotionsDifference between stress and trauma — and why both matterThe role of validation in completing the “distress loop”How parental responses (or lack of them) shape a child’s copingSuicidal thoughts in adolescence and finding life-saving supportThe importance of safe spaces and compassionate professionalsPost-traumatic growth: transforming pain into purposeWhy healing requires connection, not isolationTimestamps00:00 – Introduction and purpose of the podcast  01:12 – Mr. Rogers: “Anything human is mentionable”  01:34 – Trina Kennedy shares her “messy middle” journey  02:36 – How definitions of trauma have shifted  03:45 – Stress vs. trauma: why the distinction matters  04:28 – Trina’s childhood and relational trauma with her father  06:36 – The “backpack of rocks” metaphor for unprocessed pain  08:34 – Accumulated pain leading to depression and suicidal thoughts  09:43 – Hospitalization at 16 after a suicide attempt  10:34 – Finding a life-changing psychologist who provided safe space  12:22 – Healing is messy but growth is possible  12:39 – Post-traumatic growth: learning, growth, and helping others  14:11 – What people most need to hear in their darkest moments  15:33 – Gabor Maté’s “The Myth of Normal” and societal trauma  17:41 – Trauma as a normal response to abnormal conditions  20:21 – Why adults must validate children’s emotions  22:53 – Adults admitting they don’t have the answers — and why it matters  24:26 – How consistent caring adults buffer childhood trauma  26:01 – Somatization: when unspoken pain shows up in the body  27:19 – Resources and closing reflections  Explore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Many people living with depression are told to “get better” for their families, their partners, or their friends. But what happens when you realize you deserve to recover for yourself?In this powerful episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Ari Cohen shares her lifelong journey with depression, from being diagnosed at age 11 to navigating suicidal thoughts, family loss, and the pressure to heal for others. Through therapy and reflection, Ari discovered a profound truth: true recovery begins when we believe we are worthy of healing for our own sake.If you’ve ever wondered what recovery from depression really looks like — and how self-worth plays a central role — this conversation offers validation, hope, and practical insights for your own healing journey.Primary Topics CoveredWhy recovery from depression often feels like it’s “for others”Ari’s first diagnosis of depression as a childHow antidepressants triggered suicidal thoughts at age 11The devastating impact of losing a family member to suicideMaking a personal commitment to seek help in crisisThe importance of connection and meeting others with similar strugglesHow trauma-informed therapy reframed healing around self-worthThe role of self-compassion, journaling, and gentle practices in recoveryWhy healing for yourself (not just others) is essentialRecognizing that doing it “for you” doesn’t mean doing it aloneTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction and framing of the episode  01:18 – How depression is often framed in relation to others  02:35 – Ari Cohen’s story begins  03:09 – Early depression diagnosis at age 11  05:12 – Antidepressants, side effects, and first suicidal thoughts  06:24 – Crisis intervention and support from family  08:13 – Starting high school while still depressed  09:19 – Losing a stepbrother to suicide and its impact  09:28 – Making a personal commitment to seek help in crisis  10:11 – Discovering the importance of peer support  11:26 – Trauma-informed outpatient program in late 20s  12:05 – Writing a letter to suicide: realizing its grip on life milestones  12:37 – The key question: Who are you getting better for?  13:08 – Shifting toward healing for self-worth  15:13 – Doing it for yourself doesn’t mean doing it alone  16:34 – Gentle practices: hobbies, self-compassion, journaling  18:25 – Dr. Anita’s reflections on Ari’s message  19:33 – The importance of community and safe spaces  21:07 – Closing thoughts and resources  Explore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Men are less likely than women to seek therapy — but not because they don’t need it. Stigma, cultural expectations, and outdated ideas about masculinity often keep men silent when they’re struggling with depression or grief.In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, mental health counselor Ethan Getchell shares his personal story of losing his brother to suicide and how it inspired him to change careers and rebrand therapy for men. From using humor and relatable language to creating safe, judgment-free spaces, Ethan shows how new approaches to therapy can help men open up, heal, and save lives.If you’ve ever wondered why men avoid therapy — and what can be done about it — this candid and hopeful conversation offers fresh insights, practical tools, and reasons to believe change is possible.Link to Ethan's Hey Man newsletter: https://ethangetchell.substack.com/Link to "Man Therapy" website: https://mantherapy.org/Primary Topics Covered:Why men are less likely to seek therapy for depressionEthan’s personal story of grief after losing his brother to suicideCultural expectations of masculinity and “rugged individualism”How the pandemic exposed covert depression in menRebranding therapy to make it more approachable for menUsing CBT, apps, and behavioral tracking to engage clientsThe “Core Four” basics: earth, air, fire, and water as self-care toolsThe role of vulnerability and safe spaces in men’s mental healthHow humor and creative campaigns (like Man Therapy) break stigmaWhy rebranding mental health can literally save livesTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction: Carly joins as guest co-host  01:25 – Why men get depressed (Man Therapy excerpt)  02:12 – Why rebranding mental health communication matters  02:44 – Meet Ethan: his story and motivation  03:04 – Losing his brother to suicide and its impact  04:14 – Masculinity, independence, and the “lone cowboy” myth  05:07 – The pandemic and covert depression in men  06:21 – Why men avoid therapy and how to rebrand it  07:06 – CBT and behavioral strategies for men  08:19 – The “Core Four” elements: basics of self-care  10:08 – Two modes of therapy: crisis vs exploration  11:29 – Humor, campaigns, and the power of rebranding  13:17 – Happiness through discomfort, growth, and resilience  14:39 – Listening first: building trust with young men  16:22 – The importance of male therapists as role models  18:02 – Vulnerability vs fear of judgment  19:17 – Core needs and acronyms like HALTS  21:00 – “Hey Man” newsletter: shoulder-to-shoulder conversations  22:40 – Safe spaces, community, and reducing stigma  23:22 – Why more people should embrace therapy without shame  24:32 – Closing thoughts and resources  Explore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/