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

Can everyday wellness habits really support depression recovery?In this inspiring episode, bestselling author and wellness expert Darin Olien (SuperLife, Fatal Conveniences, and Netflix’s Down to Earth with Zac Efron) joins hosts Terry and Dr. Anita Sands to discuss the profound connection between wellness practices and mental health.Drawing from his family’s struggles with depression and his own life challenges—including losing his home in the California wildfires—Darin shares how grief, nutrition, hydration, and lifestyle changes all play vital roles in building resilience and supporting recovery.This conversation blends science, lived experience, and hope, reminding us that while genetics and trauma matter, the daily choices we make about food, sleep, and self-care can profoundly influence our mental well-being.Link to Darin Olien's website: https://darinolien.com/Primary Topics Covered:Darin Olien’s personal experiences with depression in his familyThe connection between grief, trauma, and resilienceHow ultra-processed foods impact mood, gut health, and brain chemistryWhy hydration is often overlooked but critical for energy and mental clarityThe importance of community, therapy, and safe spaces for honestyWhy unresolved trauma is at the root of much sufferingThe power of sleep and circadian rhythms in stabilizing moodWhy genetics account for only ~20% of outcomes, and lifestyle choices for the other 80%How to give yourself permission to dream and build a life you wantPractical first steps toward wellness when energy feels lowTimestamps00:11 Welcome and introduction 01:10 Why mental health is often excluded from “wellness” conversations 02:16 Introducing Darin Olien and his work (SuperLife, Fatal Conveniences, Down to Earth) 03:29 Darin shares his family’s struggles with depression 05:37 Coping with grief after losing his father, divorce, and his home in a wildfire 07:19 The courage it takes to feel emotions fully and move through them 08:25 The connection between processed foods, gut health, and depression 09:55 Why unresolved trauma fuels much of our suffering 11:28 The importance of therapy, professional help, and safe spaces 13:01 The power of active listening and men’s groups in healing 15:03 How pain and trauma can be transformed into healing opportunities 16:20 Lifestyle choices that impact depression (nutrition, sleep, hydration) 17:51 Practical tips for nutrition and eating whole foods with limited energy 18:42 Hydration and why dehydration mimics fatigue and low mood 19:41 Darin’s closing advice: seek help and give yourself permission to dream 21:52 Hosts reflect on focusing on what we can control 23:50 Genetics vs. lifestyle: why you have more influence than you think 26:30 Closing reflections and listener invitation for feedbackExplore 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 does it take to move from struggling in silence to becoming a mental health advocate?In this candid episode, writer and advocate Michelle Yang shares her powerful journey of living with bipolar I disorder, from being overlooked as a high-achieving student to experiencing a life-threatening manic episode while studying abroad.Michelle opens up about her delayed diagnosis, the stigma that kept her silent for years, and the turning point when she realized hiding her condition only reinforced shame. Today, she is a proud advocate, helping others see that life with bipolar disorder can be full, successful, and joyful.Hosts Terry and Dr. Anita Sanz guide the conversation, exploring what it means to challenge stereotypes, balance treatment, and embrace authenticity while living with a serious mental health condition.This episode is both eye-opening and deeply validating—reminding us that mental illness does not define us.Link to Michelle's Blog: www.livingwellhappily.com/Primary Topics Covered:Michelle’s childhood pressures as a first-generation immigrant studentWhy good grades and achievements often mask serious mental health strugglesHer first major depressive and manic episodes during college abroadReceiving a bipolar I diagnosis after years of being misdiagnosedThe importance of taking a break from school and finding the right treatmentReturning to school, graduating with distinction, and building a careerHow stigma and secrecy limited her confidence and opportunities at workThe turning point: choosing to “come out” about her diagnosisChallenging myths about bipolar disorder and treatmentWhy lived-experience stories are essential to changing stigmaTimestamps00:11 Introduction and welcome 01:10 Michelle Yang’s immigrant childhood and early responsibilities 01:56 Mental health struggles overlooked due to grades and achievement 03:19 “Good grades ≠ good mental health” — Michelle’s advocacy message 04:15 First major depressive episode and study abroad struggles 05:18 Pressure from her father and a triggering manic episode in Beijing 06:59 Crisis leads to hospitalization and first bipolar diagnosis 08:52 The importance of therapy and taking a break from school 09:33 Returning to school, graduating with honors, and pursuing an MBA 10:17 Building a career while hiding her diagnosis out of fear of stigma 11:10 The personal and professional costs of keeping bipolar a secret 11:18 Challenging misconceptions about bipolar disorder and treatment 12:54 Recognizing the difference between untreated and treated illness 13:12 “Like sucking in your gut for 20 years” — her metaphor for hiding 13:19 Choosing authenticity and becoming a mental health advocate 14:30 Living a full life: mother, professional, and person with bipolar 15:11 Why advocacy matters: breaking silence and stigma 16:53 Stigma persists because we only see people in crisis, not in recovery 17:55 Michelle’s forthcoming memoir: Phoenix Girl: How a Fat Asian Girl With Bipolar Found Love (2024) 18:38 Closing reflections and reminders for listenersExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Can a teen be excelling academically while secretly battling depression or bipolar disorder?In this revealing episode, Michelle Yang shares her story of being a high-achieving immigrant student who outwardly had it all together—straight A’s, strong work ethic, and responsibility—while silently struggling with anxiety, depression, and undiagnosed bipolar disorder.Despite begging for therapy as a teenager, Michelle’s struggles were dismissed by adults who believed good grades meant good mental health. Cultural stigma, parental fear of leaving a “permanent record,” and a dismissive doctor’s visit all delayed her diagnosis and treatment for years.Now a thriving advocate and writer, Michelle uses her experience to shine a light on the dangerous myth that academic performance protects teens from mental illness. Her story reminds us that depression can hide in plain sight—and listening without judgment can save lives.Link to Michelle's Blog: www.livingwellhappily.com/ Primary Topics Covered:Michelle’s experience immigrating from Korea and the trauma of cultural adjustmentTaking on adult responsibilities at a young age as a translator and family caretakerThe disconnect between academic achievement and emotional strugglesEarly symptoms of bipolar disorder and severe anxiety during high schoolManic episodes, paranoia, and psychotic-like symptoms as a teenWhy teachers and professionals overlooked her needs due to good gradesThe crushing shame of feeling “different” and misunderstoodHer parents’ fear of stigma and a “permanent record” blocking college opportunitiesA secret doctor visit that ended in dismissal instead of diagnosisHow stigma delayed treatment for years—and the hope of eventual healingTimestamps00:11 Introduction and hosts’ reflections 02:01 Michelle’s background as an immigrant from Korea 03:04 Early signs of anxiety and depression in childhood 04:19 Family struggles with cultural and career shifts after immigration 05:26 Becoming a translator and caretaker at age 12 05:40 Pressure from family and the beginnings of depression 05:49 Academic achievement alongside deep anxiety and sleeplessness 06:32 Manic episodes with psychotic-like tendencies 06:42 The shame and fear after manic episodes ended 07:22 Out-of-character behaviors at school and teacher responses 08:13 How teachers and schools excused behavior as “cultural differences” 08:55 Michelle’s confusion and lack of words for her experience 09:59 Asking parents for help and begging for therapy 10:55 Her parents’ fear of stigma and “permanent record” consequences 11:50 A secret doctor visit that ended in dismissal 13:07 The heartbreak of being told she had an “overactive imagination” 13:55 Four more years until she received professional diagnosis and treatment 14:52 Hosts reflect on her resilience and eventual thriving 15:34 Closing thoughts and next week’s continuation of Michelle’s storyExplore 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’s therapy really like—and when should you go?In this milestone episode, Dr. Anita Sanz demystifies the therapy process for anyone considering mental health treatment. From how to know when it’s time to reach out, to what actually happens in a session, to finding the right therapist (yes, it’s okay to shop around), this episode is packed with practical advice and stigma-busting insight.Whether you’re new to therapy or returning after a break, this candid conversation can help you approach the process with more confidence—and less fear. Therapy isn’t about being “crazy”—it’s about being proactive with your emotional health, just like you would with your physical health.Primary Topics Covered:When to start therapy: proactive vs. reactive approachesCommon signs it’s time to seek professional mental health supportReducing stigma and misconceptions about therapyHow therapy compares to medical and legal help (metaphors that resonate)Why “not being able to function” isn’t a requirement to get helpWhat actually happens in a therapy session (no couches required)How to find a therapist who fits your needs and personalityWhat to say if you don’t know why you’re seeking therapyAddressing suicidal thoughts safely and honestly in therapyThe role of therapy beyond the session (homework, behavioral change)Timestamps:00:00 Introduction and goals of the episode  01:09 Comparing therapy to medical and vision care  01:33 Why mental health stigma still holds people back  02:11 What therapy actually is—and what it isn’t  03:00 When to start therapy: don’t wait until crisis  04:22 Going early leads to better outcomes  05:25 How different generations view therapy  06:47 Using legal and car repair metaphors to explain therapy  07:09 “I’m not crazy”—debunking the most common myth  08:35 Why mental illness is hard to see, and harder to validate  09:50 Proactively seeking therapy before a known stressor  10:52 Finding the right therapist: it’s okay to shop around  12:38 Questions to ask during a free intro call  13:36 What if you don’t know what’s wrong? That’s okay too  14:58 Can you ask your therapist how they’ll talk to you? Yes  15:39 When to switch therapists—and how to do it respectfully  17:00 How long should therapy last? What does “done” look like?  19:10 Addressing suicidal thoughts safely in therapy  21:34 Therapy is one hour. Real change happens between sessions  23:16 Listener question: feeling stuck in negative thought loops  24:55 Therapy, plasticity, and building new brain patterns  25:45 Closing thoughts and next steps  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/

Can tiny shifts in perspective really make a difference in chronic depression?In this powerful follow-up conversation, Lori shares her ongoing recovery journey after nearly a decade of feeling stuck in depression. For years, she believed she was “broken” and beyond help. But a new treatment program introduced her to the idea that she wasn’t broken—just stuck—and that even the smallest shifts in thinking and behavior could change her trajectory.Through meeting others living with persistent depression, trying new therapeutic tools, and reframing her self-worth, Lori has begun to experience light and contentment for the first time in years.Her story is a reminder that depression lies, that progress doesn’t have to come in dramatic leaps, and that small, consistent changes can help us reclaim hope.Primary Topics Covered:Lori’s decade of living “halfway out” of depressionWhy she believed she was broken—and how treatment reframed that beliefThe importance of meeting others with persistent depressionHow small shifts in thought and behavior can alter recovery pathsMoving from hopelessness to noticing “pinpricks of light”Understanding “contingent self-worth” and reframing valueLearning the difference between being “broken” and being “stuck”The power of metaphors in recovery: pits, pinpricks of light, screen doors, and backpacksWhy staying open to new approaches matters, even after years of tryingTimestamps:00:11 Introduction and James Baldwin quote on change 01:31 Lori reflects on facing depression in new ways 02:22 Living “halfway out” of depression’s pit 03:16 Feeling like she “couldn’t do life well” 03:52 Trying a new treatment program despite skepticism 04:12 Meeting others living with persistent depression 04:49 Realizing she’s not alone in daily depression 05:21 Learning new tools and regaining unexpected hope 06:14 Moving from hopelessness to “not broken, just stuck” 07:24 Shifting perspective: looking forward, not just back 08:35 The “airplane course correction” metaphor for small shifts 09:43 Experiencing the first sparks of hope 10:26 Shame, self-worth, and living “in a box” 11:32 Sitting with pain to loosen depression’s grasp 12:29 Discovering that worth is a “set point,” not earned 12:50 Why the next step is always the most important 13:29 “Backpack people” vs. “screen door people” 14:28 Shifting from dreading mornings to noticing contentment 15:24 Co-host reflections on Lori’s insights and metaphors 17:00 Why “stuck” feels temporary while “broken” feels permanent 18:03 Staying open to new tools and approaches 19:27 The power of “yet” in reframing recovery 20:31 Final reflections and gratitude for Lori’s storyExplore 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 does it feel like to live with depression every single day—for years?In this deeply honest episode, Lori shares what it’s like to live with persistent depressive disorder (PDD), sometimes called dysthymia or chronic depression. Unlike major depressive episodes that come and go, Lori describes the exhausting reality of functioning at only “60%” most days—and the terrifying nearness of relapse when even small setbacks pull her closer to the bottom.She uses vivid metaphors—living “underwater,” hearing life “muffled,” and waking up each day feeling weighed down by a beanbag full of blood—to describe what PDD feels like from the inside. Lori also shares about passive suicidal thoughts, the risk of living flat and joyless, and why support often requires listening rather than “fixing.”Clinical psychologist Dr. Anita Sands joins co-host Terry to contextualize Lori’s story, emphasizing that persistent depression is real, chronic, and not the result of personal failure. They discuss how to support loved ones without minimizing their struggle, why curiosity may be more realistic than hope, and why staying—just one more day—matters.This is the first in a two-part series. In next week’s episode, Lori shares what happened after attending a treatment program that shifted her perspective and gave her new tools for living.More info on dysthymia: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/dysthymiaPrimary Topics Covered:The difference between major depression and persistent depressive disorderLori’s experience of living at “60%” and why it feels dangerousPowerful metaphors: underwater, muffled joy, and flatnessThe exhausting reality of waking each day wishing not to wakeUnderstanding passive suicidal ideationWhy “fix it” advice often causes more harm than goodHow to better support someone with chronic depressionDr. Sands on why PDD is its own diagnosis—not a failure of treatmentThe importance of staying present and curious, even when hope feels impossibleTimestamps00:11 Introduction to episode and hosts 01:10 Defining persistent depressive disorder (PDD/dysthymia) 02:04 Distinction between chronic and major depression 02:53 Lori’s description of major depression vs. chronic depression 04:08 Living at “60%” and the risks of relapse 06:04 Lori’s underwater metaphor for muffled life and joy 07:28 The flatness of chronic depression and masking symptoms 09:20 Struggling with mornings and passive suicidal thoughts 11:08 Wishing not to wake but lacking active suicidal intent 12:03 The exhaustion of even pleasant activities 13:21 Why “fix it” advice is unhelpful 14:12 Examples of dismissive or harmful responses Lori has received 15:27 What true validation and endurance look like 16:32 Dr. Sands contextualizes PDD as a real chronic illness 19:55 Introducing next week’s follow-up episode after treatment 21:05 Dr. Sands on why curiosity can be more realistic than hope 23:34 Closing reflections 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/

What does depression really feel like? In this episode, we break down the concept of Spoon Theory, a powerful way to understand the daily challenges of living with depression and limited energy. Through real-life examples and practical insights, we explore why simple tasks can feel overwhelming and how energy management plays a critical role in coping. If you’ve ever struggled to explain depression to others, this episode offers language and tools to make it clearer — both for yourself and the people around you.Primary Topics Covered:What Spoon Theory is and how it relates to depressionWhy depression makes everyday tasks feel exhaustingThe difference between visible and invisible strugglesStrategies for conserving and managing limited energyHow to explain depression to friends, family, and caregiversTimestamps: 0:00 – Introduction: Why describing depression is so difficult 2:45 – The origins of Spoon Theory explained 6:20 – How energy limits affect people with depression 10:05 – Examples of daily tasks that drain mental energy 14:30 – Explaining invisible struggles to others 18:50 – Practical strategies for conserving energy 23:10 – How Spoon Theory empowers self-compassion 26:45 – Final thoughts on living with depression and limited spoonsExplore 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 one of the toughest men in the NFL takes off the mask and admits he’s been battling depression?In this powerful 100th episode of Giving Voice to Depression, NFL Hall of Famer Brian Dawkins opens up about his lifelong struggle with depression, suicidal thoughts, and the pressure of hiding behind toughness. Known as “Weapon X” during his 16 seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles and Denver Broncos, Dawkins reveals how silence nearly cost him his life—and how vulnerability, therapy, and faith helped him find freedom.Dawkins shares candidly about the dangers of holding everything in, the importance of building what he calls a “blessed pack” of supportive people, and how medication, therapy, and prayer worked together in his healing. He also reflects on the lessons he wishes he’d learned earlier, and why he now uses his platform to advocate for mental health awareness, especially for men of color and athletes.This episode is a reminder that true strength is asking for help—and that depression does not discriminate, even among the strongest.Link to Brian Dawkins's website: www.briandawkins.com/Primary Topics Covered:Brian Dawkins’ first experience with depression during his NFL rookie yearThe harmful message of “pain is weakness leaving the body”Why men, especially athletes, are taught to suppress emotionsThe silent pressure that builds when feelings aren’t expressedThe moment depression drove him to consider suicideHow therapy, medication, and faith worked together in his healingThe power of vulnerability and unmaskingBuilding a “blessed pack” of trusted friends and mentorsTeaching the next generation to talk about feelingsHow daily practices like prayer, meditation, and positive focus help recoveryTimestamps00:11 Introduction to the 100th episode and hosts’ reflections 02:09 Brian Dawkins’ NFL career and reputation as “Weapon X” 02:53 Why he chose to reveal his depression in his Hall of Fame speech 03:35 What he thought depression was before experiencing it himself 04:21 Depression hitting hard during his rookie year 05:06 The culture of silence and “toughness” in sports and masculinity 06:18 The silent pressure of unspoken pain 06:35 The concept of a “blessed pack” for support and vulnerability 07:38 Teaching his kids to express emotions and not fear judgment 09:00 The role of faith and prayer in his healing 09:48 How medication and therapy helped him regain perspective 11:05 Suicidal thoughts and searching for ways to end his life 12:34 The mask of performance while dying inside 13:41 Freedom found in authenticity and unmasking 14:34 How dark times can teach resilience and discipline 15:54 The role of focus and daily practices in recovery 16:47 Final message: “You are worth the fight.” 18:17 Brian’s advocacy work and upcoming foundation 18:33 Closing reflections from hostsExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Can sharing your darkest struggles create light for others?In this heartfelt episode, Matt Weeden of The Tors Band continues the conversation about the band’s viral hit “Anything Can Happen.” Written during his own battle with depression and anxiety, the song has resonated with millions worldwide, turning raw honesty into connection, hope, and healing.Matt opens up about the slow steps of recovery—sleeping through the night, opening the curtains to let in light, walking his dogs, and starting therapy. He reflects on how being authentic and vulnerable not only helped him heal but also sparked a global community of listeners who felt less alone.This episode explores the power of music to reduce stigma, inspire hope, and connect people who might otherwise suffer in silence.The Tors website: tors.bandPrimary Topics Covered:The unexpected viral success of “Anything Can Happen”How sharing personal struggles with depression created global resonanceThe importance of authenticity and vulnerability in healingSmall but powerful steps in recovery: sleep, light, routine, therapyThe metaphor of opening curtains—literal and emotionalWhy recovery is slow but lasting change matters more than quick fixesThe universal power of music as a tool for mental healthA reminder that progress is possible, even if it’s slowTimestamps:00:11 Introduction to the episode 01:09 The power of vulnerable sharing in mental health 01:38 Recap of The Tors’ viral song “Anything Can Happen” 03:08 The overwhelming response from fans around the world 04:49 The importance of authenticity in music and recovery 06:59 Lyrics and reflections on slow healing: “I think I’m getting better…” 08:29 The significance of opening curtains and hearing birds sing 09:52 Why recovery takes time and the myth of quick fixes 12:03 Small steps: routine, dogs, podcasts, and therapy 13:23 Therapy insights and revisiting childhood experiences 14:21 Matt’s message of hope: healing is slow, but possible 17:00 Therapist reflection on imperceptible change in recovery 18:38 The importance of hearing and sharing real stories 19:14 Closing with The Tors’ full performance of “Anything Can Happen”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/

Music has a way of putting words and emotions to experiences we can’t always explain. In this episode, Matt Weedon of The Tors shares the story behind their song “Anything Can Happen” — written during a difficult season of depression.Matt opens up about how even small tasks felt unbearable, what it was like to feel both pain and numbness at once, and how the support of a loyal friend helped him through the darkest moments. He also explains how the simple reminder — “If you need a minute, take a minute” — became a lifeline of self-compassion and rest.This conversation is both raw and hopeful, offering listeners a reminder that depression can distort our sense of time and possibility, but support, routines, and even music can help us hold on until things shift.Link to The Tors website: http://tors.band/Primary Topics Covered:Depression recovery through music and songwritingThe story behind “Anything Can Happen” by The TorsHow depression feels like both pain and numbnessWhy everyday tasks become overwhelming during depressionThe role of friendship and having someone who truly listensSelf-compassion: “If you need a minute, take a minute”How routines and laughter can bring sparks of hopeWhy being heard can be as powerful as being lovedThe importance of honest support vs. empty reassuranceTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction and opening thoughts from Terry & Dr. Anita  02:12 – Meet Matt Weedon of The Tors and the story behind the song  03:44 – Writing during depression: when everything felt heavy  05:08 – Pain and numbness at the same time in depression  05:38 – Lyrics from “Anything Can Happen” and their meaning  06:43 – “I don’t remember happy” — losing joy during depression  08:26 – The power of a friend who listens without judgment  09:29 – Why being heard feels like being loved  10:54 – How not to shut someone down when they share their struggles  11:49 – The meaning of “If you need a minute, take a minute”  15:13 – Finding hope when you can’t see a future  15:35 – Building routines and small daily goals during recovery  18:30 – Laughter, TV shows, and the spark of joy returning  20:09 – Why familiar, comforting inputs help a struggling brain  21:22 – Friendship, “body doubling,” and the power of presence  22:51 – Closing reflections and preview of the next episode  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/