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

What does it mean to feel homesick for yourself? Savannah Wall describes depression as being “homesick for the life and the person she used to be.” In this powerful conversation, she opens up about the weight of emptiness, the shame of hiding her symptoms, and the turning point when her husband insisted she seek help.Savannah’s words capture what many living with depression struggle to explain: the paradox of feeling both heavy and empty, grateful yet hopeless, surrounded by love but unable to feel it. She also shares how treatment, faith, and supportive relationships helped her slowly find light and hope again.This episode is for anyone who has ever felt distant from themselves because of depression — and for the loved ones who want to better understand.The full article that prompted the episode: https://savannahwallsblog.wordpress.com/2018/12/22/when-youre-homesick-for-all-that-you-were-before-depression/comment-page-3/Primary Topics Covered:The concept of being “homesick” for your pre-depression selfThe physical weight and emotional emptiness of depressionWhy candles, baths, and “quick fixes” don’t work for clinical depressionShame, stigma, and hiding symptoms from othersThe role of supportive loved ones in recognizing when help is neededSeeking therapy, medication, and faith as part of recoveryHow depression can convince you it will last foreverBuilding a personal “toolkit” for coping and preventing relapseThe power of writing reminders to yourself during well timesWhy it’s okay to not be okay — and the consequences of staying silentTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to the episode 01:00 - Exploring the idea of being “homesick” for your old self 02:15 - Savannah describes her experience of depression 03:35 - The physical heaviness of emptiness 04:00 - Why self-care trends don’t fix clinical depression 05:40 - Hiding symptoms and making excuses to avoid people 07:15 - The struggle of gratitude vs hopelessness in depression 08:32 - Feeling cut off from loved ones despite their support 08:52 - Waiting for the day depression disappears 09:19 - Breaking point and turning to self-harm 09:49 - Husband’s support and decision to seek help 10:17 - Starting therapy, medication, and healing 11:37 - Recognizing warning signs of depression earlier 12:42 - Building a personal depression “toolkit” 13:01 - Writing reminders to yourself during well periods 13:57 - Consequences of hiding depression too long 15:34 - How hearing others share inspired someone else to seek help 16:11 - Depression’s lies and the truth that healing is possible 17:21 - The importance of supportive loved ones in recovery 18:20 - Closing reflections and hopeful takeawayExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Tara has lived with depression and anxiety since childhood — beginning with panic attacks at age four after a traumatic accident. For decades, she carried shame, exhaustion, and guilt, especially as a mother who felt she couldn’t live up to the “supermom” image.In this honest and heartfelt conversation, Tara shares how she finally found words for what she was experiencing, why asking for help changed everything, and how she’s learning to accept her own version of “normal.” From surviving panic attacks to redefining success as cooking meals or simply getting out of pajamas, Tara’s story is a reminder that living with depression is not weakness — it’s courage.Her journey also highlights the importance of supportive friends, family, therapy, and medication — and why telling your truth can reduce shame and stigma.Link to one of Alex's articles: https://alexandriabrown12.medium.com/truth-be-told-my-depression-actually-does-define-me-27ef27107f0eLink to Alex's book: https://www.amazon.com/You-Me-Depression-Battle-Heart-ebook/dp/B07531N5TMPrimary Topics Covered:Why asking for help with depression and anxiety is not weaknessTara’s early childhood trauma and the onset of panic attacksThe long road to finally having words for what she was experiencingHow anxiety and depression often go hand in handCollege years, stigma, and being forced to leave school due to depressionThe impact of multiple personal losses on her mental healthParenting with depression and explaining it to her childrenRedefining “normal” when living with depressionThe importance of therapy, medication, and supportive familyHow choosing to stay alive every day is an act of resilienceTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction and purpose of sharing stories 01:22 - The difficulty of starting conversations about depression 01:42 - Tara shares feelings of guilt and shame as a mother with depression 02:23 - Why asking for help is so important 05:02 - Tara’s first panic attacks at age four 05:55 - Traumatic childhood accident and early PTSD 07:02 - Discovering the term “panic attacks” at age 14 08:04 - Relief in finally having words for her symptoms 08:56 - Depression intensifies during college years 09:39 - Loss of loved ones and impact on her mental health 10:12 - Struggling to work full-time while living with depression 11:33 - Parenting with depression and explaining it to her kids 12:55 - Medication, therapy, and redefining “normal” 14:17 - Choosing every day to keep going as resilience 15:16 - Closing reflections: asking for help and telling your truthExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Taking medication for depression doesn’t mean you’re weak — it means you’re fighting for your life. In this powerful and candid conversation, sports broadcaster and mental health advocate Michael Landsberg (founder of Sick Not Weak) shares his decades-long journey with depression, anxiety, and antidepressants.Michael speaks openly about his early resistance to medication, the relapses he endured after stopping, and the moment he realized his meds were keeping him alive. He explains his philosophy of “learning to love the thing you hate the least” — choosing antidepressants, despite side effects, because they free him from depression’s grip.This episode challenges the stigma that keeps so many from seeking help and offers hope, validation, and practical language for anyone living with depression or supporting someone who is.Link to Sick Not Weak, Michael Landsberg's website: www.sicknotweak.com/Primary Topics CoveredMichael Landsberg’s personal journey with depression and anxietyEarly resistance to antidepressants and lessons from relapsesThe dangers of untreated depression and denialStigma, masculinity, and why men avoid seeking helpAntidepressants: benefits, side effects, and misconceptions“Learning to love the thing you hate the least” approachWarning signs of relapse and how Michael manages themHow one person’s openness can break stigma for othersWhy recovery is about management, not cureThe importance of honest conversations about mental healthTimestamps00:00 - Introduction and thank you to supporters 01:27 - Introducing Michael Landsberg and his advocacy work 03:09 - Michael’s story: living with depression and anxiety 03:44 - Speaking openly about depression and breaking stigma 04:49 - Michael’s first experience with antidepressants 05:37 - Stopping meds and painful relapses 06:57 - The turning point: realizing medication was essential 07:42 - Addressing stigma and misconceptions about meds 08:57 - “Learning to love the thing you hate the least” explained 09:45 - Why some people resist treatment and how to respond 11:07 - Mistakes Michael learned from in managing depression 12:36 - Warning signs of relapse and how he responds 14:25 - Coping strategies: patience, perspective, and self-awareness 15:21 - Destigmatizing through honest, everyday conversations 16:02 - Tracking “bad days” and the role of hope in recovery 17:37 - Final reflections and gratitudeExplore 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 mean to be sick, not weak? In this candid conversation, broadcaster and mental health advocate Michael Landsberg shares his personal journey with anxiety and depression—and the power of naming depression as an illness, not a weakness.Michael speaks openly about his early struggles with anxiety, the turning point when depression took hold at age 40, and how seeking help from a psychiatrist became his “first step back toward the light.” Together, we explore the stigma around antidepressants, how to support someone who resists treatment, and why sharing our stories can shorten the suffering for others.If you’ve ever questioned whether depression is “real” or struggled with the idea of taking medication, this episode is for you.Primary Topics Covered:Why depression is an illness, not a weaknessThe stigma around antidepressants and how to counter itMichael’s early struggles with anxiety and later depressionWhy many people delay treatment for yearsThe slow and subtle way depression takes over daily lifeThe importance of friends and family noticing changesHow openness and shared stories empower othersBalancing honesty about medication benefits and challengesTimestamps00:00 - Welcome and episode introduction 01:22 - Listener question about resistance to antidepressants 02:28 - Why sharing openly about medication matters 03:11 - Personal reflections on using antidepressants 04:29 - Michael Landsberg’s early experiences with anxiety 05:48 - The insecurity of wondering if symptoms are “real” 06:20 - Depression at age 40 and the phrase sick not weak 06:45 - Why depression often goes unrecognized for years 08:33 - Michael’s first psychiatrist appointment as a turning point 09:14 - The importance of early recognition and intervention 10:45 - Subtle changes that signal depression 11:10 - How loved ones can notice and start supportive conversations 12:05 - The loss of joy as a marker of depression 13:33 - Why we feel alone when millions share this struggle 14:05 - The power of sharing openly about mental health 15:14 - Putting words to experiences for the first time 16:16 - Closing thoughts and preview of part twoExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Recovery from depression can feel overwhelming—but small daily habits and consistent routines can make a real difference.In this episode, mental health advocate Paul Marlow shares how morning and evening routines helped him climb out of two of the darkest years of his life. From improving sleep to creating daily “wins” like making his bed, journaling, and practicing fitness and nutrition, Paul explains how these habits built his confidence and supported long-term recovery.Whether you’re living with depression or simply looking for ways to strengthen your mental health, this episode offers practical strategies for using routines as a foundation for healing.Link to Paul's website/resources: https://weareneveralone.co/Primary Topics Covered:Why routines and daily habits are powerful for depression recoveryPaul’s personal story of two years in his darkest placeThe role of sleep in depression and anxiety managementEvening routines that improve rest and emotional regulationMorning routines that create “small wins” and build confidenceWhy therapy and honest conversations matter for recoveryHow fitness routines reduce fear and anxietyNutrition’s impact on mood and mental well-beingNormalizing setbacks and why persistence is keyTimestamps:00:00 – Episode introduction and context  02:07 – Tools guests have shared for coping with depression  03:01 – Paul Marlow’s story: two years in a dark place  03:44 – Morning routines and the power of daily wins  04:34 – How sleep directly affects depression and anxiety  05:43 – Tracking sleep and learning its mental health impact  07:00 – Building evening routines for better rest  08:13 – Experiencing restful sleep for the first time in years  09:00 – Starting a morning routine step by step  09:55 – Why not checking your phone first is essential  11:18 – Therapy as a key recovery tool  13:06 – The role of honesty in making therapy effective  14:59 – Facing setbacks and sticking with the process  16:10 – Fitness routines as tools for resilience and self-confidence  17:36 – Using exercise to face fear and anxiety  18:06 – How nutrition supports mental health  19:26 – Small wins and changing negative self-talk  20:26 – Redefining limits and discovering strength  21:22 – Closing reflections on routines and recovery  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 everything you thought defined you suddenly crumbles? For Paul Marlowe, a former professional athlete and personal trainer, the losses of a parent and a relationship, combined with anxiety and PTSD, led to years of depression and an inability to feel joy.In this conversation, Paul shares the reality of living with depression—the nights filled with racing thoughts, mornings curled up crying in the shower, and the daily effort of faking wellness just to get by. But his story doesn’t stop there. Paul also opens up about how he began to rebuild: creating morning routines, embracing therapy, prioritizing sleep and nutrition, and—most importantly—learning to speak honestly with himself and others.His journey is a reminder that while depression can strip us down, it can also create the space for a stronger, more authentic self to emerge.Paul Marlow's Never Alone site: https://weareneveralone.co/Primary Topics Covered:How grief, PTSD, and anxiety combined to trigger Paul’s depressionWhat depression’s “loss of joy” (anhedonia) really feels likeThe hidden toll of faking wellness while struggling insideThe impact of holidays and seasonal triggers on depressionHow Paul rebuilt his life through therapy, routines, and lifestyle changesThe role of honesty—with oneself and others—in recoveryWhy he now views failure as growth instead of defeatTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction and welcome 01:03 - Terry shares a story about stigma in depression stereotypes 02:33 - Introducing Paul Marlowe and his background in sports 03:36 - Paul’s descent into depression after major life losses 04:36 - Daily reality of anxiety, sleepless nights, and morning breakdowns 06:10 - Hiding depression in public and faking wellness 07:17 - Anhedonia: the inability to feel joy 09:05 - The “old Paul” versus the person he is today 10:34 - Growth through vulnerability, failure, and honesty 11:45 - Seasonal depression triggers during the holidays 13:03 - Building new habits: therapy, routines, sleep, and nutrition 14:22 - How honesty with himself fueled lasting change 16:23 - Reflection on stripping away old facades and rebuilding authentically 17:23 - Bridget and Terry’s reflections on Paul’s journey 18:00 - Upcoming webinar on mindful self-compassion 19:00 - 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/

What does it really mean to live with both depression and addiction?In this episode, Don opens up about his decades-long struggle with clinical depression, anxiety, and substance use disorder—a combination often called dual diagnosis. Despite years of misdiagnosis and silent suffering, Don finally found hope through proper treatment, peer support, and telehealth through the VA.He shares candidly how depression convinced him he was worthless, how addiction deepened the darkness, and how tools like medication, gratitude, and music became lifelines in his recovery. Don also reflects on the power of simply asking, “How can I support you today?” and why breaking stigma saves lives.This is an honest, hopeful conversation for anyone navigating depression, addiction, or supporting someone they love.Primary Topics Covered:What “dual diagnosis” really means in mental health careDon’s early anxiety and decades of misdiagnosisThe dangers of untreated depression and self-medicating with substancesRecovery through AA/NA and support networksHow the VA and telehealth improved access to careFinding stability through medications like escitalopram and gabapentinThe role of music in calming anxiety and lifting moodWhy asking the right support questions mattersChallenging stigma by sharing lived experiences openlyDon’s reflections on recovery, resilience, and hopeTimestamps00:05 Welcome and introduction 01:03 Podcast updates and live webinar announcement 02:06 Defining dual diagnosis: mental illness + addiction 03:15 Don begins his story of depression and anxiety 04:21 Early childhood anxiety and silent suffering 04:58 Initial misdiagnosis with bipolar disorder 06:05 Finding the right medication for depression and anxiety 07:59 The dangerous weight of untreated depression 08:10 Don’s history of substance use and addiction 09:03 Building strength through AA/NA recovery programs 09:56 How technology kept him connected during recovery 11:28 The life-changing role of VA telehealth access 12:20 Why Don values his mental health providers 13:07 Music as therapy: calming depression and anxiety daily 14:58 Spotting early warning signs of depression 15:50 Lessons learned from lived experience 17:14 Best ways to support a loved one with depression 19:47 Why stigma silences people—and why Don speaks up 22:28 Closing 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/

Every January, millions of people make resolutions—only to abandon them weeks later. But what if we shifted the focus from unrealistic goals and shame-based change to something more sustainable: prioritizing our mental health?In this inspiring New Year’s conversation, psychologist and author Dr. Margaret Rutherford (host of the SelfWork podcast) joins us to explore what real mental health resolutions look like. Together, we discuss why self-compassion matters more than self-criticism, why true self-care goes beyond bubble baths, and how small, intentional practices can protect our mental health all year long.Dr. Rutherford also shares insights from the American Psychiatric Association’s latest survey, showing that more than 1 in 4 Americans are committing to mental health goals in 2022. From therapy and journaling to limiting toxic social media and nurturing healthy relationships, these are resolutions that truly make a difference.Link to Dr. Margaret Rutherford's website https://drmargaretrutherford.comPrimary Topics Covered:Why traditional New Year’s resolutions often failThe importance of setting goals with compassion instead of shameHow mental health resolutions differ from physical health resolutionsThe role of past, present, and future in shaping self-care practicesThe rise of therapy, meditation, journaling, and mental health appsThe impact of social media use on depression and anxietyRecognizing hidden struggles and reducing stigmaHow to focus on small, daily actions that support mental healthTimestamps00:00 - Introduction to the episode 01:08 - Why most New Year’s resolutions fail 02:09 - The value of setting clear, official goals 02:49 - American Psychiatric Association study: 1 in 4 Americans resolving to improve mental health 03:16 - The pandemic’s impact on awareness of mental health 04:09 - The danger of shame-based resolutions 05:00 - Setting mental health goals through past, present, and future reflection 06:01 - Internal validation vs. external validation in self-care 07:33 - Broadening the definition of “diet” to include media and relationships 09:09 - Effective mental health resolutions: therapy, journaling, apps, and meditation 10:34 - The benefits of virtual therapy for accessibility 11:30 - How depression and anxiety create barriers to seeking therapy 12:16 - Recognizing hidden struggles and breaking stigma 13:34 - “People don’t fake depression. They fake being okay.” 14:55 - Understanding the spectrum of mental health struggles 16:25 - Therapy as a tool for healing guilt, shame, and past actions 17:29 - Coping with uncertainty and the ongoing pandemic 18:06 - Developing internal markers of progress and wellbeing 18:29 - “There is no health without mental health” 19:24 - Closing reflections and words of 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/

Season 19 of Giving Voice to Depression brought together powerful, vulnerable conversations about what it means to live with depression. From learning that you’re not alone in your struggles, to understanding recovery as a non-linear process, to hearing about veterans’ mental health, racial trauma, journaling, and holiday survival tips—this season offered both compassion and practical insights.In this special season wrap-up, co-hosts Bridget and Terry revisit the most impactful episodes, highlighting the resilience and wisdom of people living with depression. If you’re looking for real stories, validation, and hope, this recap will help you reflect, heal, and carry forward lessons into the new year.Primary Topics Covered:Why “The Beginning of Hope” resonated with so many listenersUnderstanding recovery as non-linear: moving in and out of hopeVeterans’ mental health and how civilians can support themTrauma recovery and the role of culture and community messagesHoliday mental health strategies for self-care and compassionThe power of journaling as a mental health toolReducing stress in social invitations with “the graceful out”Listener-favorite story: It’s Really Hard to Fix Something Broken With Something BrokenReflections on depression’s lies and the importance of shared voicesGratitude for the GVTD community and a look toward the new yearTimestamps:00:00 - Welcome and introduction 00:33 - Why this review is about Season 19, not 2021 01:34 - Invitation to share: “What does your depression tell you?” 02:30 - Episode 191: The Beginning of Hope 03:45 - Episode 192: Recovery Is Not Linear 05:12 - Episode on veterans’ mental health with Dr. McBride 06:33 - Civilian support for veterans’ mental health 07:46 - Episode 193: Trauma Recovery, Race, and Mental Health 09:12 - Holiday mental health advice with Dr. Maggie Mulqueen 10:36 - Behind-the-scenes blooper + journaling as a mental health tool 12:23 - Journaling to “get the ugly out” 13:48 - Dr. Anita Sands: the “graceful out” for social invitations 14:36 - Episode 195: It’s Really Hard to Fix Something Broken With Something Broken 16:04 - Listener responses and gratitude for community voices 17:31 - Acknowledgment of Facebook community support 18:13 - Closing reflections and new year wishesExplore 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 are painted as a season of joy—but for many living with grief, depression, or loneliness, Christmas can feel unbearably heavy. This special holiday episode, written and read by author John Pavlovitz, is for those who struggle when everyone else seems to be celebrating.If your heart feels heavy, if loss or depression has taken the light out of the season, this episode is a reminder: you are not alone. Millions share in this quiet grief, even if you never see their faces. And as hard as it is to imagine, the way you feel today will not always be the way you feel.This Christmas, may these words remind you of two truths: you are not suffering alone—and this is not the end of your story.Primary Topics Covered:The reality of struggling with depression and grief during the holidaysWhy Christmas can feel especially painful for those facing lossMessages for those battling depression, addiction, or self-hatredThe weight of loneliness and separation during the seasonHope that today’s pain is not the end of the storyEncouragement for receiving the holidays exactly as you areThe importance of solidarity with others who “get it”Timestamps00:00 - Introduction to the special holiday episode 00:48 - John Pavlovitz begins: “To those who struggle this Christmas…” 01:15 - For those grieving losses and broken relationships 02:30 - For those facing illness, hospital rooms, or funerals 03:15 - For those battling depression, addiction, or inner demons 04:00 - For those alone or separated from loved ones 04:40 - Reminder: you are not alone in this struggle 05:10 - This is not the end of your story—hope will return 05:37 - Reflection on how words can bring solidarity 05:50 - Resources and encouragement from Giving Voice to DepressionExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/