Giving Voice to Depression: Real Stories & Expert Support for Depression and Mental Health

Video games aren’t just entertainment — for many, they’re a lifeline during tough times. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we explore how gaming can reduce stress, ease anxiety, and provide relief for those living with depression.Our guest shares how video games became a healthy outlet during periods of mental health struggles, and we discuss the research-backed benefits of gaming for relaxation, social connection, and emotional well-being. Whether you’re a gamer yourself or simply curious about the role of gaming in mental health, this conversation offers practical insights, validation, and hope.If you’ve ever wondered how something as simple as gaming could help you cope with life’s challenges, this episode will help you see the positive side of play.Related links:BetterPlay Studios | Good Games, Good for YouHow To Raise a Healthy GamerHG Coaching Resources + Tools (healthygamer.gg)Video Games and Mental Health: Risk Factors and Benefits (psychcentral.com)Primary Topics Covered:Why video games can be beneficial for mental healthHow gaming provides stress relief and emotional regulationThe connection between video games and depression recoveryGaming as a healthy coping strategy for anxietyThe role of social connection in online gamingBalancing gaming with real-life responsibilitiesHow different genres of games can influence moodBreaking stigma around gaming and mental healthTimestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 01:42 – Guest shares personal story of gaming and mental health 06:18 – Why video games help reduce stress and anxiety 12:07 – Gaming as a coping strategy for depression 17:50 – The role of online community and social support in gaming 23:14 – Research on gaming and mental health benefits 28:39 – Healthy gaming vs. problematic gaming 34:20 – Practical tips for using gaming in your wellness plan 39:56 – Final reflections and message of hopeExplore 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 you’re living with depression, basic tasks can feel like climbing mountains. This episode is about removing the shame from that reality—and giving you permission to survive in the smallest, kindest ways possible.Mental health educator and Cereal for Dinner founder Emily Derecktor returns to walk us through shame-free survival tips for hard days. From hygiene hacks to meal shortcuts to breaking the dishes into “just take out the trash today,” you’ll hear evidence-based tools that are easy to miss in traditional self-care advice. Plus, learn how behavioral activation works—and why getting out of bed isn’t a character test.This is the episode to return to when you’re in the thick of it and need a voice that says, “You’re not lazy. You’re surviving. And that counts.”Cereal for Dinner's Website: www.cerealfordinner.org/Primary Topics Covered:How shame keeps people from talking about functioning challengesThe internal voice that says “you should be doing more” and how to quiet itWhy even the smallest acts—like moving under a blanket—are valid winsTools and mental workarounds for hygiene, cleaning, and nutritionBreaking big tasks into tiny phases without guiltGiving yourself permission to “do it badly” instead of not at allUsing behavioral activation to create momentum (not motivation)Finding dignity in low-energy meals, disposable dishes, and routinesCreating a prep plan for your future self when symptoms returnBuilding trust with yourself through compassionate daily choicesTimestamps:00:00 Welcome back and episode reintroduction  01:02 The hidden shame around “not functioning” with depression  02:15 Why “trying harder” isn't the answer  03:21 Emily on reframing low-functioning days with self-compassion  04:12 How survival looks different for everyone—and that’s okay  05:18 “Do it badly” vs. doing nothing at all  06:43 Bedside baskets, dry hygiene tools, and intentional laziness  08:07 Tiny wins: even lifting your head can be a success  09:12 Eating when you can’t cook: judgment-free food solutions  10:34 Cleaning in shame-free phases: permission to go slow  11:49 Helping future-you: stocking supplies for hard days  13:06 How behavioral activation works when motivation is gone  14:38 Letting apps, alarms, or friends help guide your day  15:29 The emotional weight of mess—and what to do about it  16:33 Accepting support: cleaning help, prepared food, and connection  17:52 Building a mental health toolkit rooted in kindness  18:30 Encouragement to stop comparing yourself to others  19:46 Where to find more tools and resources from *Cereal for Dinner*  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/

In this powerful episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Emily Director shares her journey of living with depression in college and beyond. From struggling with loneliness at Brown University to creating peer-support programs at Penn, Emily’s story captures both the weight of depression and the hope found in resilience and connection. She discusses her hospitalization, the ongoing challenges of severe depression, and how reframing emotions helped her reclaim moments of joy. Emily’s voice reminds us that while recovery is not linear, community, support, and self-compassion can carry us through.Link to Cereal for Dinner's website: www.cerealfordinner.org/Primary Topics Covered:Emily’s early experiences with depression at Brown UniversityHow environment and loneliness contribute to mental health strugglesCreating peer-support initiatives and mental health resources at PennLeaving medical school, identity loss, and the impact of hospitalizationThe waxing and waning nature of depression over a lifetimeLearning to process “negative” emotions without fearDiscovering joy again after years of numbnessThe importance of peer support and community in recoveryTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction by hosts Terry and Dr. Anita Sanchez 01:23 – Introducing guest Emily Director 03:05 – Academic background and Ivy League pressures 03:42 – Depression and loneliness at Brown University 04:26 – Family history of mental illness (“the Director curse”) 05:17 – Transferring schools and mental health advocacy at Penn 06:46 – Creating a peer counseling program and screening tool 07:26 – Depression as a spectrum, unique for each person 08:53 – Medical school struggles and worsening depression 10:01 – Leaving med school, identity loss, and hospitalization 11:32 – The role of therapy and recognizing PTSD 12:11 – Accepting sadness and reframing emotions 13:35 – Naming emotions to reduce panic about sadness 15:20 – Depression as an ongoing, waxing-waning condition 16:18 – Experiencing joy again after long numbness 17:02 – Fear of losing support during recovery 18:32 – Daily struggles with basic tasks during depression 19:17 – Co-host reflections on debilitating depression 20:30 – Practical tips for functioning (preview of next episode) 21:38 – Power of peer support and community invitation 22:27 – Call for listener engagement and feedback 22:47 – Closing thoughts and resourcesExplore 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 it comes to New Year’s resolutions, many of us set big goals that can feel overwhelming and unsustainable. But what if the key to lasting change — and better mental health — is found in small, intentional steps? In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we explore the powerful connection between exercise, movement, and mental health.Our guest, exercise psychologist and health coach Michelle Elmer, shares how reframing movement as a tool for mental well-being can reduce stress, lift depression, and help us feel more in control of our lives. Whether it’s taking a short walk, stretching, or simply moving your body with compassion instead of punishment, you’ll hear why small shifts in how you approach exercise can lead to profound benefits for both body and mind.This episode offers encouragement for anyone feeling stuck, anxious, or self-critical as they look ahead to a new year. Instead of aiming for perfection, we discuss how to cultivate self-compassion, celebrate progress, and use movement as a foundation for healing.Adel Korkor's TEDx Talk: (61) Motion Impacts Emotion: My Journey With How Running Saved My Life | Adel B. Korkor, M.D. | TEDxOcala - YouTube Link to Article quoted in episode: Depression and anxiety: Exercise eases symptoms - Mayo ClinicIntentions/Resolutions read at end of episode: 8 Alternatives to New Year’s Resolutions If You Live With Mental Illness (themighty.com) Primary Topics Covered:Why most New Year’s resolutions fail and how to make sustainable onesThe mental health benefits of exercise and movementHow self-compassion creates lasting changeShifting from punishment-based exercise to joy-based movementUsing small, consistent actions to reduce stress and improve moodReframing physical activity as a form of self-care, not disciplineEncouragement for those struggling with depression or anxiety during the New YearHow exercise can be a protective factor in recovery and daily mental healthTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction and episode overview 02:10 – Why most New Year’s resolutions fail 05:22 – The link between exercise and mental health benefits 08:47 – Self-compassion vs. self-criticism when setting goals 12:15 – Shifting from punishment-based exercise to movement for joy 16:42 – How small steps lead to sustainable progress 21:03 – Using movement as a daily stress-relief practice 24:30 – Encouragement for listeners struggling with depression in the New Year 28:12 – Final thoughts: Why movement is one of the best resolutions for mental healthExplore 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, Charlotte Underwood shares her deeply personal story of surviving teenage depression. Looking back, she reflects on the lies depression told her, the hidden strength she didn’t realize she had, and the treatments and support that helped her build a brighter future.Charlotte offers the perspective she wishes her younger self could have known: that she wasn’t alone, that healing is possible, and that life can become meaningful again. Her story provides a message of hope, compassion, and encouragement for teens, parents, and anyone navigating depression.This episode is both a validation of the pain of teen depression and a reminder that recovery is possible with support, resilience, and the right tools.Primary Topics Covered:Charlotte’s teenage experience with depression and traumaWhat she wishes her younger self had known about mental illnessThe false narratives depression createsThe importance of family support and connectionWhy opening up is critical in healingTreatment, therapy, and self-care in recoveryDiscovering hope and building a meaningful lifeTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction by Terry and Anita 01:11 – The convincing lies of depression 01:36 – Charlotte’s holiday moment of gratitude that went viral 02:52 – Charlotte describes her teenage self and early struggles 03:57 – How she envisioned her future at age 14 04:23 – Surviving trauma, alcoholism, and self-harm 04:52 – The life she’s built in her 20s 05:41 – The night of baking cookies and dancing in her kitchen 07:10 – What she wishes she’d known about depression as a teen 07:56 – Hidden strength and resilience 08:53 – Family support and her father’s response to self-harm 10:15 – Keeping depression a secret vs. opening up 11:19 – The lie of being “alone” in depression 12:08 – What she wishes she’d known about treatment options 13:10 – Hope and believing in a future worth fighting for 14:20 – Charlotte’s message to teens and others struggling 16:09 – Terry and Anita reflect on resilience and strength 17:28 – Finding the spark of hope in dark times 19:00 – A quote on resilience and survival 19:55 – Upcoming holiday and New Year’s episodes 21:57 – Closing message and reminder: Speak up, listen, and supportExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

 For many, Christmas is not all “merry and bright.” If you’re grieving, feeling alone, or carrying heavy emotional weight this holiday, this episode is for you. In this special Christmas edition of Giving Voice to Depression, we share a heartfelt essay written and narrated by John Pavlovitz.His words offer understanding, compassion, and hope for anyone who finds themselves struggling during a season that often feels overwhelming. You’ll hear reminders that you are not alone in your pain and that brighter days are ahead, even if they feel out of reach right now.Whether you’re navigating loss, depression, or the difficulty of simply getting through today, this episode is meant to be a companion, letting you know you are loved and supported.Link to John Pavlovitz's essay: https://johnpavlovitz.com/2017/12/24/to-those-who-struggle-this-christmas/Primary Topics Covered:Why the holidays can feel especially heavy for those with depression or griefThe reality of losses, struggles, and unspoken battles during ChristmasA message of solidarity: You are not suffering aloneEncouragement that this season does not define your entire storyPractical reminders to accept Christmas as it is, without guiltTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction from Terry and the purpose of this special episode 00:48 – John Pavlovitz’s essay begins: a message to those struggling this Christmas 02:00 – Acknowledging grief, loss, depression, and broken dreams during the holidays 03:20 – Recognition of internal battles: depression, addiction, and self-hatred 04:20 – Reminders of solidarity: you are not alone in your pain 05:00 – Encouragement that this season is not the end of your story 05:37 – Closing reflections: the importance of speaking up and listeningExplore 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, Dr. Barbara Moser, a trained teacher in mindful self-compassion, offers three powerful, free tools for managing mental health. Designed to reduce stress, increase self-awareness, and support emotional regulation, these practices can be used anytime—no appointments, apps, or equipment required. You'll learn about the STOP technique, mindful breathing, and a self-compassion break, each backed by psychological research and neuroscience. Whether you're new to mindfulness or seeking extra tools for your mental health toolkit, this episode offers practical and proven resources to support your well-being.Link to research on mindfulness:American Mindfulness Research Association:goamra.org/resources/reviewsmeta-analysis/Primary Topics Covered:Importance of free, accessible mental health toolsOverview and benefits of the STOP practiceBreathing techniques to calm the nervous systemThe role of mindful self-compassion in emotional healingHow to adapt these techniques to different environments and needsTimestamps: 00:00 Intro 01:20 Co-host Introduction: Dr. Anita Sanz 02:06 Overview of Accessible Mental Health Tools 02:42 Grounding Exercise by Dr. Barbara Moser 09:21 Benefits of Daily Breathing Techniques 10:08 STOP Practice Explanation and Demonstration 14:22 Mindful Self-Compassion Break 22:32 Episode Closing and Community Invitation 23:16 Final Thoughts and Resources on Recovery.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/

The holidays can bring joy, but for many, they also bring anxiety, sadness, and stress. In this episode, Dr. Anita Sanz and Terry McGuire discuss the mental health challenges people often face during the holiday season—from family dysfunction and social pressures to grief and isolation. With relatable stories and proven strategies, they explore how to cope, set boundaries, simplify expectations, and find your own meaning in the holidays—even when things get tough.Primary Topics Covered:Why the holiday season can worsen depression symptomsCoping with family dysfunction and stressful interactionsSetting boundaries and managing expectationsGrieving during the holidays and honoring lost loved onesDealing with loneliness when you're alone for the holidaysThe “holiday bingo card” technique for managing stressThe importance of buffer days and self-care during and after the holidaysTimestamps:00:00 - Intro 00:11 - About the Podcast and Hosts 01:09 - Why Holidays Are Especially Hard with Depression 02:24 - Energy Demands and Emotional Exhaustion 03:47 - Family Dynamics and Emotional Fallout 04:52 - Financial Stress and Disrupted Routines 05:43 - Simplifying Expectations and Protecting Energy 06:50 - Being the Co-Creator of Your Holiday Experience 07:53 - Coping with Holiday Loneliness and Isolation 09:43 - Grief and Celebrating Without a Loved One 11:23 - The “Holiday Bingo Card” Coping Strategy 14:22 - Setting Boundaries and Planning Buffer Days 15:57 - Final Tips for Mental Health During the Holidays 16:43 - How to Share Feedback 17:22 - Wrap-Up and Well Wishes 17:28 - Final Thoughts and EncouragementExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

The holidays can be especially painful for those facing grief and depression. In this episode, hosts Terry and Dr. Anita Sanz speak with grief expert Krista St. Germain about the overlap between grief and depression, how holiday rituals can intensify feelings of loss, and strategies for coping during a season that often emphasizes celebration and togetherness. From setting boundaries to learning how to fully experience and process emotions, Krista shares practical tools and compassionate insights for navigating this difficult time of year.Links to related resources:Krista's website: Coaching with Krista — Life Coaching for Widowed MomsPsychology Today article: Working Through Grief During the Holidays | Psychology TodayPrimary Topics Covered:The differences and overlap between grief and depressionHow holiday rituals and expectations can intensify griefGiving yourself permission to change or release traditionsThe importance of communicating needs and setting boundaries“Should” thinking and anticipating difficult emotionsPractical tools like the NOW method (Name, Open, Witness) and EFT tappingNavigating family conflicts during the holidaysAllowing yourself and others space to grieve authenticallyTimestamps: 00:00 Intro 01:09 Who This Episode Is For During the Holiday Season 01:49 The Many Ways Grief Can Be Triggered During Holidays 03:37 Differences and Overlap Between Grief and Depression 05:17 How Depression Includes Grief Over Lost Opportunities 05:59 Expanding the Definition of Grief Beyond Bereavement 07:31 Losses Beyond Death That Can Trigger Grief 08:17 Holiday Expectations and the Pressure to Be Happy 09:38 Rewriting Traditions and Setting Boundaries 10:51 Communicating Holiday Needs to Others 12:18 When Grief and Family Needs Conflict 12:32 “Should Thinking” and Holiday Expectations 13:03 Anticipating Negative Feelings Before Events 14:34 Learning How to Fully Feel Emotions 15:07 The NOW Method for Processing Emotions 17:13 Navigating Resistance from Others During Holidays 18:10 Boundaries and the Discomfort of Saying No 19:05 Grieving Non-Traditional Losses and Unmet Expectations 20:09 Mindfulness and Allowing Emotions Without Judgment 22:14 Giving Others Permission to Feel Disappointed 23:05 Handling Pushback and Accusations of Selfishness 24:51 Boundaries Around How Others Expect You to Grieve 26:05 EFT Tapping as a Tool for Managing Emotions 26:45 Looking Ahead: Protecting Mental Health at Holidays 27:51 Closing Reflections and OutroExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Caring for someone with depression can feel overwhelming—and without clear boundaries, it can take a serious toll on relationships. In this episode, Gwen shares the ground rules she and her husband created to keep their family functioning while navigating depression together.From recognizing early warning signs to setting realistic expectations, Gwen explains how her family learned to balance compassion with accountability. She also highlights the importance of small daily acts of kindness, protecting family life from being consumed by depression, and making space for joy even in dark times.Co-hosts Terry and Dr. Anita Sanz reflect on why caregiver support for depression is so essential—and why caregivers must also prioritize their own well-being, community, and self-care.This conversation is a guide for anyone supporting a loved one with depression, offering both practical strategies and emotional reassurance: you are not alone, and your efforts matter.Primary Topics Covered:Why National Caregiver Month matters for depression supportHow depression impacts not just the individual, but their whole familyGwen’s lived experience supporting a husband and children with depressionThe importance of setting ground rules in a household with depressionEarly-warning signs and communication strategies for caregiversBalancing responsibility: asking “What can you do?” vs. “Do everything”How timing and word choice matter when raising concernsSmall daily acts of kindness that reinforce connectionMaking space for joy even when depression is presentWhy caregivers must find their own support network and self-care outletsHelpful resources for families: Families for Depression Awareness and moreTimestamps:00:00 – Intro: Why caregivers need support too  01:09 – National Caregiver Month and its importance  02:12 – Gwen’s experience supporting a husband and two teens with depression  03:26 – Finding hope: looking for “glimmers” of joy in hard times  04:00 – Ground rules: communication agreements and early-warning signs  05:22 – Spotting patterns: irritability, withdrawal, increased sleep  06:06 – Balancing responsibility: “What can you do?” instead of “Do everything”  07:34 – Timing conversations: why word choice and when you talk matters  09:36 – Daily acts of kindness to maintain connection in relationships  11:17 – Ground rule: letting the family continue life, even if one member can’t participate  13:31 – Talking with kids and friends about depression without shame  15:16 – Remembering who your partner was before depression took hold  16:56 – The importance of caregivers finding their own support system  19:05 – Being honest with trusted friends about how hard it really is  20:56 – Resources for families and caregivers: Families for Depression Awareness, MHA, ADAA  23:24 – Closing reflections: supporting caregivers so they don’t burn out  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/