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

What does it mean to live with a dual diagnosis?In this episode, Don shares his candid story of navigating clinical depression, anxiety, and substance use disorder—a combination often called a dual diagnosis.After decades of silent suffering, Don finally received the correct diagnoses and found a treatment plan that worked, including medication, support groups, and telehealth through the VA. He talks openly about how depression convinced him he was worthless, how addiction fueled the darkness, and what finally helped him find hope again.Don also shares how music, gratitude, and peer support networks became essential tools in his recovery. His story is a reminder that recovery is possible, stigma must be challenged, and sometimes just listening is the greatest form of support.Primary Topics Covered:What “dual diagnosis” really meansDon’s early struggles with undiagnosed depression and anxietyMisdiagnosis of bipolar disorder and finding the right treatmentThe role of medication (escitalopram and gabapentin) in his stabilityDon’s history of substance use and recovery through AA/NAHow telehealth and the VA became a lifeline for mental health careMusic as a powerful coping tool against depression and anxietyWhy asking “How can I support you today?” mattersChallenging stigma by speaking openly about depression and addictionTimestamps00:05 Introduction and welcome 01:03 Podcast updates and live webinar announcement 02:06 What “dual diagnosis” means (mental illness + substance abuse) 03:15 Introducing Don and his story 04:21 Don’s early experiences with anxiety as a child 04:58 First diagnosis (misdiagnosed bipolar, later corrected) 06:05 Finding the right medication for depression and anxiety 07:59 How depression and anxiety feel without medication 08:10 Don’s history of substance use and recovery journey 09:03 Building a strong support network through AA/NA 09:56 The importance of connection, even long-distance, through technology 11:28 How telehealth with the VA transformed Don’s access to care 12:20 Why Don values the VA’s mental health services 13:07 Music as a daily coping tool and source of gratitude 14:58 Recognizing early signs of depressive episodes and acting quickly 15:50 The empathy and wisdom gained from lived experience 17:14 How friends and family can best support someone in depression 19:47 Why stigma is dangerous—and why Don refuses to stay silent 22:28 Closing reflections and reminders 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/

What role does family play in depression recovery?In this episode, Sandeep, a 33-year-old British-Asian woman, shares her journey through depression, OCD, and an eating disorder, and how her family became a vital part of her healing. From her father first recognizing red flags, to her mother creating a monthly “family trust circle” where everyone shares openly, Sandeep highlights the power of connection, communication, and empathy in managing depression.She also opens up about her suicide attempt, what helped her hold on, and why she now advocates for open, stigma-free conversations about mental health. This conversation reminds us that recovery is not only personal, but communal—and that loved ones can play a life-saving role.Primary Topics Covered:How depression and eating disorders were first noticed in Sandeep’s lifeThe role of cultural stigma in silencing conversations about mental healthHer father’s intervention and family support during diagnosisThe mix of relief and shame that comes with receiving mental health labelsSurviving a suicide attempt and what shifted her thinking in that momentRed flags families can watch for: withdrawal, anger, and behavioral changesThe Family Trust Circle: a structured way to share positives, struggles, and needsWhy listening without judgment is one of the most powerful supportsHow connection—whether with family, peers, or online groups—can save livesChanging the conversation from “you’re not alone” to “you’re not the only one”Timestamps00:00 Introduction to the episode 01:09 Different ways to manage depression (therapy, medication, tools) 01:53 Introducing Sandeep’s story 02:41 Self-criticism, weight stigma, and childhood pressures 03:45 Early eating disorders and OCD diagnosis 04:50 Her father’s recognition of red flags 05:53 First doctor’s visit and getting a diagnosis 06:56 The relief and stigma of receiving labels 07:59 Reframing diagnoses and advocating for humanity beyond labels 08:59 Sandeep’s suicide attempt and internal conflict of voices 09:30 Her mother’s intervention that saved her life 10:43 How to check in with loved ones effectively 11:47 Warning signs: withdrawal, anger, temperament changes 13:18 Creating a Family Trust Circle for open dialogue 14:33 Why mental health check-ins must be safe, consistent, and trustworthy 16:15 Crisis resources: 988 in the U.S. and local hotlines abroad 16:51 Why it’s okay to not be okay—and to speak up 17:22 Reflections on family support and safe spaces 19:05 Extending trust circles to friends and chosen families 21:39 Emotional literacy and generational growth in mental health 22:39 The healing power of honest conversation 23:49 “You’re not the only one” vs. “You’re not alone” 25:05 Closing thanks 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 happens when a child grows up with a parent who has depression or bipolar disorder?In this powerful episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Michelle Dickinson shares what it was like to be raised by a mother living with untreated bipolar disorder. She recalls the unpredictability of her childhood, the pressure to keep the peace, and the lasting impact of always adjusting herself to her mother’s moods.Michelle describes the confusion of thinking her mother’s illness was somehow her fault, and how years of therapy helped her separate her mom from her disease. Her story sheds light on the resilience children develop—and the struggles they carry into adulthood—when mental illness goes unacknowledged in the home.The co-hosts also discuss practical, low-energy ways parents can protect and support their kids while managing their own depression. From honesty and modeling self-care to simple rituals of connection, they highlight how love and presence matter more than perfection.If you’re a parent struggling with depression—or the child of one—this episode offers validation, understanding, and hope.Link to Related resources: https://www.familyaware.org/Link to Michelle's website: https://www.michelleedickinson.com/Primary Topics Covered:Michelle’s childhood experience with a mother who had bipolar disorderHow children often blame themselves for a parent’s mental illnessThe emotional toll of walking on eggshells and being a “chameleon” childSeparating the parent from their diseaseHow stigma and lack of awareness in the 70s–80s shaped family lifeMichelle’s own experience with depression and empathy for her momPractical tips for parents managing depression to support kidsWhy kids need to hear “this is not your fault”Small, low-energy rituals that build connection despite illnessResources for families living with parental depressionTimestamps00:11 Introduction and episode context 01:00 A son recognizes his father’s depression through a friend’s eyes 02:00 Remembering earlier interview with Michelle Dickinson 03:20 Michelle’s story: growing up with a mother with bipolar disorder 04:24 Her mother’s depressive and manic episodes 05:41 Hospitalizations and lack of family understanding 06:39 How Michelle blamed herself and tried to “be a good girl” 07:16 Adapting as a “chameleon” to survive 07:50 Feeling voiceless and unseen in her own home 08:26 Fear of bringing friends home due to stigma and embarrassment 09:41 Why Michelle shares her story publicly now 10:05 The message she wishes someone had told her as a child 11:08 Realizing her childhood was not “normal” 11:59 Learning to separate her mother from her illness 12:23 Processing her mother’s death and finding forgiveness 13:19 Michelle’s own depression and new understanding of her mom 14:51 The importance of care, medication, and responsibility in mental health 16:10 Over 15 million children live with a parent who has depression 18:06 Why honesty with kids about mental illness matters 18:47 How children internalize blame when parents don’t explain 21:15 Advances in awareness and support for families today 21:48 Parents managing depression and protecting their children 23:54 Low-energy rituals that help kids feel loved 25:27 Resources for families and closing reflectionsExplore 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 feel like when you’re right in the middle of it?In this candid episode of Giving Voice to Depression, author and advocate Gina Capobianco courageously shares her experience of recording while actively struggling through a depressive relapse. Instead of looking back from a place of distance, Gina offers a raw, unfiltered glimpse into the reality of living with depression in real time.She talks about how depression stole the joy of her book launch, the weight of intrusive thoughts, and the ongoing struggle to find treatments that help. Yet even in the midst of the darkness, Gina continues to use her voice to advocate for awareness, break stigma, and remind others that healing is possible—even if recovery is a lifelong journey.This episode is a rare and powerful insight into the lived experience of depression and the resilience it takes to keep showing up, even when hope feels far away.Link to Gina's website: https://www.ginacapobianco.com/Primary Topics Covered:How depression “steals” opportunities, relationships, and joyGina’s relapse after TMS treatment and starting ketamine therapyWhy thoughts can be the hardest symptom to manageThe stigma that makes it hard to talk about depression at workWhat it feels like to be in the middle of a depressive episodeHealing vs. recovery: why the difference mattersThe importance of care teams, rest, and self-advocacyUsing poetry and writing as tools for mental health expressionWhy speaking up from the darkness helps others feel less aloneHow hope can come from leaning on others when you can’t hold it yourselfTimestamps00:11 Introduction to the episode 01:10 How depression takes things from people’s lives 02:03 Stories from the Facebook community about what depression has stolen 03:10 Meet Gina, author and mental health advocate 04:47 Gina describes her depressive relapse despite TMS treatment 06:14 Her care team’s recommendation to take sick leave 07:44 Coping with darkness and intrusive thoughts 08:15 Why she chose to record while still struggling 09:15 The impact of stigma in the workplace 10:23 Intrusive and suicidal thoughts as the hardest symptom 11:53 Recognizing thoughts as symptoms, not truths 14:04 Losing her book launch to depression’s grip 15:30 How healing differs from recovery 17:49 Depression as a lifelong illness requiring ongoing management 18:56 Healing as a journey, not a destination 19:15 Finding purpose by giving back through advocacy 20:11 Update: ketamine treatment begins working 20:29 Reflections from the co-hosts on what depression really steals 22:30 Why being honest about depression in the moment matters 24:27 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 it feel like to find light after years of depression?In this episode, Cara from Belfast, Northern Ireland shares her lived experience with depression, trauma, and recovery. From her teenage years of sadness and hopelessness, through moments of suicidal despair, to the life-changing decision to seek therapy, Cara describes what it’s really like to live in both the darkest lows and the euphoric highs.She opens up about how therapy helped her process trauma, how journaling and gratitude became tools for survival, and why the small “flashes of light” — like savoring a coffee or witnessing kindness — gave her strength to hold on.Cara’s story is a powerful reminder that recovery isn’t a straight line, but that hope, healing, and happiness are possible — even after the darkest nights.Primary Topics Covered:What depression really feels like beyond sadnessCara’s teenage years of undiagnosed depressionThe dangerous silence around mental illness in familiesTherapy as both painful and healingNaming and validating trauma in recoveryHow “flashes of light” help people hold on through depressionThe importance of journaling good days, not just bad onesPeer support and the power of hearing “me too”Daily goals as survival strategies in dark timesWhy everyone deserves to live a happy lifeTimestamps:00:00 Introduction to the episode 01:11 Podcast recognized as #1 Depression Podcast 01:44 Introducing Cara’s story from Belfast 02:43 Experiencing happiness more intensely after darkness 04:00 The numbness and emptiness of depression 05:14 Understanding depression as an illness, not just sadness 05:40 Cara’s teenage years and undiagnosed depression 07:05 Early struggles, suicidal thoughts, and crisis moments 07:51 Returning to therapy and confronting trauma 09:37 How validating trauma changed Cara’s recovery 10:11 The night that pushed her to reach out for help 12:25 Taking the first step: finding a counselor online 13:07 The bumpy reality of recovery — ups and downs 14:53 “Flashes of light” — moments of happiness and hope 15:48 Journaling and photographing happy moments 16:50 Cara’s message of hope: hold on one day at a time 18:53 Reflections from the co-hosts on staying present 22:39 Closing thoughts: You deserve to live a happy lifeExplore 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 second part of our year-end reflection, Terri, Anita, and Bridget revisit powerful moments from 2022 that offered new ways of coping with depression. From reworking the 12 steps into a mental health framework, to journaling methods that transform negative thoughts into art, to rethinking resolutions with compassion instead of shame, these stories remind us that recovery is built step by step.Featuring insights from Wally, Dr. Margaret Rutherford, and Gina Barry, this episode highlights practical tools, cognitive strategies, and affirmations of self-worth that help us move into the new year with greater resilience.Primary Topics Covered:Why 2022 was difficult and the importance of shared reflectionWally’s “12 Steps for Mental Health” and how to adapt tools to fit individual needsPracticing self-compassion and granting ourselves graceHow CBT helps challenge negative thoughts and “cancel” self-critical liesDr. Margaret Rutherford on making resolutions without shame or self-loathingThe role of self-care as an empowering daily practiceGina Barry’s creative journaling method: “writing the ugly out” safely and privatelyUsing art and writing to transform dark thoughts into something meaningfulThe hope and strength found in community and shared voicesTimestamps00:00 Intro and reflections on moving from 2022 into 2023 01:43 Wishing listeners light, hope, and connection in the new year 02:38 Why the hosts revisit impactful episodes and guests 02:57 Anita revisits Wally’s “12 Steps Revised for Mental Health” 03:24 Wally explains his adapted 12 steps for managing depression 05:01 Why structured steps can make coping feel doable 05:46 The importance of personalizing mental health tools 06:05 Wally on self-compassion and granting ourselves grace 06:53 Mindfully dismissing negative self-talk in daily life 07:30 How CBT helps challenge and cancel depression’s lies 08:53 Bridget revisits Dr. Margaret Rutherford on rethinking resolutions 09:33 Why resolutions rooted in shame are harmful 10:02 Planting seeds of self-care and self-worth instead 11:11 Dr. Margaret on integrating past, present, and future in healing 12:22 Choosing self-love and hope instead of self-loathing 13:34 Terri revisits Gina Barry’s “journaling to get the ugly out” 14:22 Why writing down thoughts gives relief and perspective 15:23 Gina explains layering words for safety and privacy 16:13 Turning “ugly” thoughts into safe, textured expression 17:14 Using art and journaling as a way to affirm healing 18:26 How visual art can layer over journaling for hope 19:40 Invitation for listeners to share which episodes impacted them 20:15 Closing reflections and hopes for a gentler 2023Explore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

As 2022 comes to a close, we reflect on some of the most powerful conversations from the past year—conversations that remind us what depression really feels like, and how shared stories can lead to understanding, connection, and hope.In this special year-in-review episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Terri, Anita, and Bridget revisit listener-favorite guests including Tara, Patty, and John. From learning to forgive ourselves on hard days, to practicing CBT tools that challenge depression’s lies, to the life-changing moment of finally naming depression for what it is—these stories capture the courage, wisdom, and honesty of lived experience.Whether you’re navigating depression yourself or supporting a loved one, this episode offers heartfelt insights and practical reminders that none of us are truly alone in this journey.Primary Topics Covered:Why 2022 was a particularly heavy year for many listeners and guestsTara’s lesson on embracing the spectrum of “okay” days and offering ourselves graceThe power of simply “sitting with someone” during depressionPatty’s use of CBT to challenge negative automatic thoughtsWhy recognizing early signs of relapse is crucial for long-term managementThe role of sleep and other tools in bipolar disorder and depression recoveryJohn’s realization that he had been living with depression his whole lifeHow naming depression can open the door to healing and hopeThe importance of recognizing patterns, practicing self-compassion, and building toolkitsReflecting on the courage of all guests who shared their stories in 2022Timestamps00:00 Introduction and reflections on 2022 01:10 Gratitude to listeners and the power of shared stories 02:09 Why 2022 felt especially challenging 02:32 Bridget introduces favorite moments of the year 03:15 Tara on forgiving herself and living with the spectrum of “okay” 04:21 Tara on removing shame and simply asking what someone with depression needs 05:13 The power of sitting with someone in depression 06:05 Anita revisits Patty’s episode on challenging dark thoughts with CBT 07:24 Patty shares how unchallenged thoughts spiral into depression 07:44 Using CBT to list supports and challenge depression’s lies 08:42 The importance of using mental health tools at the first signs of relapse 09:29 Patty explains how she manages early warning signs with her toolkit 10:27 The role of sleep in bipolar disorder and depression 10:48 John’s story: realizing he had depression his whole life 11:27 How shared stories helped John name and understand his condition 12:01 The disempowering cycle of unrecognized depression 12:43 John on hope and light after naming depression 13:23 Why diagnosis can bring relief and clarity 13:36 Understanding depression as a named enemy you can fight 14:10 Terri’s mosaic metaphor: beauty from brokenness 14:58 Inviting listeners to share their own reflections and voices 15:43 Closing message of gratitude and connectionExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Christmas can be especially difficult for those living with depression, grief, or loneliness. While many people celebrate joy and togetherness, others quietly struggle to get through the day.In this special holiday episode of Giving Voice to Depression, writer and pastor John Pavlovitz offers a compassionate message for anyone who feels out of place during the holidays. His words acknowledge the pain, losses, and internal battles that don’t disappear just because it’s Christmas.This episode is a reminder that you are not alone. Whether you’re mourning a loved one, facing depression, or simply trying to survive the season, you’ll hear encouragement, solidarity, and hope that brighter days are still ahead.Link to John's article, if you'd like a copy or to read vs. hear it is linked here: johnpavlovitz.com/2017/12/24/to-th…-this-christmas/Primary Topics Covered:Why Christmas can feel especially painful for those with depression or griefAcknowledging loneliness, loss, and invisible struggles during the holidaysReassurance that you are not the only one hurting on ChristmasCompassionate words of hope from John PavlovitzEncouragement to accept the season as it is and hold on for better daysTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction from Terry: why this special episode matters 00:48 – John Pavlovitz’s essay begins: addressing those struggling this Christmas 02:00 – Recognizing the reality of grief, depression, and broken expectations 03:20 – Naming invisible struggles: internal battles we don’t talk about 04:20 – Words of comfort: you are not suffering alone 05:00 – Hopeful reminder: this season is not the end of your story 05:37 – Closing reflections and encouragement for the days aheadExplore 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 would you say to your younger self if you could go back in time?In this heartfelt episode of Giving Voice to Depression, author and advocate Charlotte Underwood shares the lessons she wishes she had known as a teenager battling depression, trauma, and suicidal thoughts.Charlotte reflects on how isolating and confusing it was to grow up without the language or understanding of mental illness, and how she thought she’d never survive into adulthood. Now in recovery, she offers messages of compassion, validation, and hope for anyone—especially teens—who feels trapped in darkness.Her story is both a reflection and a roadmap: a reminder that depression lies, that strength is often hidden until we need it most, and that recovery—even if imperfect—is possible.Primary Topics Covered:Charlotte’s experience as a teen with undiagnosed depression and anxietyThe role of trauma, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts in her adolescenceThe power of realizing you’re not alone in your struggleHow stigma and silence deepen sufferingWhat she wishes she had known about resilience and strengthThe importance of support from family, friends, and communityDiscovering that multiple forms of therapy and self-care existLearning that the future can hold joy and love despite depressionHer message to teens: you are not a failure, and your life is worth fighting forReflections on how surviving led to unexpected love, safety, and peaceTimestamps00:11 Introduction to the episode 01:11 Why depression feels permanent when you’re in it 01:36 How Charlotte’s holiday message of hope first caught attention 02:49 Charlotte describes her teenage self and struggles 03:49 Why she didn’t believe she had a future 04:23 Surviving trauma, alcoholism, assault, and mental illness 04:52 What her life looks like now at 23—healing and stability 05:41 The joy of baking cookies and dancing with her husband 07:10 What she wishes her younger self had known about depression 07:56 Discovering her own hidden resilience 08:53 Lessons about support and self-harm conversations with her father 10:21 Keeping depression a secret and learning openness later in life 11:59 How she separated her mother’s illness from her identity 12:23 Finding forgiveness and compassion through her journey 13:10 Why the future is worth fighting for, even when you can’t see it 14:20 Her message to teenagers today: you are not a monster, you are not alone 16:09 Hosts reflect on Charlotte’s resilience and inner strength 17:47 The spark of hope and curiosity that keeps us going 19:00 A message of encouragement to listeners heading into the new yearExplore 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. Barbara Moser shares three simple, research-backed practices you can use anytime to calm anxiety, reduce stress, and strengthen self-compassion. These tools require no cost, no appointments, and no side effects—just a willingness to pause and try. Guided by Dr. Moser, listeners will learn a three-minute STOP practice, a six-minute CALM practice, and an eight-minute Self-Compassion Break. Each technique can be used daily, even in small moments, to support mental health and build resilience.Whether you’re struggling with depression, seeking ways to manage daily stress, or looking for accessible mental health strategies, these practices can help you find calm and grounding in tough moments.Primary Topics Covered:Accessible mental health tools that require no cost or appointmentsBreathing exercises to activate the parasympathetic nervous systemThe STOP practice for mindful pausing and better transitionsThe Self-Compassion Break (mindfulness, common humanity, self-kindness)How small daily practices build resilience and emotional strengthTimestamps:00:00 Intro 01:20 Episode context and focus on free mental health tools 02:06 Dr. Barbara Moser introduction 02:42 Guided calming breath practice 09:21 Benefits of breathing for calming the nervous system 10:08 The six-minute STOP practice 14:08 Using STOP to navigate daily transitions 14:22 The eight-minute Self-Compassion Break 18:40 Recognizing shared human struggle 20:03 Practicing supportive self-talk 22:32 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/