Giving Voice to Depression

Many of us feel exhausted, drained, and overwhelmed—especially in times of high stress. But how do you know if what you’re experiencing is burnout or depression? Psychiatrist Dr. Jessi Gold, an expert on physician burnout and mental health, joins us to explain the difference, why it matters, and how to care for yourself before burnout turns into something more serious.This episode explores the overlap between workplace exhaustion and clinical depression, common signs of each, and practical coping tools. Dr. Gold also shares her own story of realizing she was burned out—even as a mental health professional—and the lessons she’s learned about rest, boundaries, and self-compassion.If you’ve been asking yourself, “Am I burned out, or is this depression?”, this conversation will help you better understand your experience and take steps toward healing.Links to articles referenced in episode: https://www.wbur.org/cognoscenti/2021/03/04/physician-burnout-covid-19-pandemic-jessi-goldhttps://www.nytimes.com/2021/04/19/well/mind/covid-mental-health-languishing.htmlPrimary Topics Covered:The concept of “languishing” and how it relates to burnoutDr. Gold’s personal experience recognizing her own burnoutThe key differences between burnout and depressionWhy burnout increases the risk of depression and suicidal thoughtsHow self-compassion and rest are vital forms of self-careCoping tools: chunking life into smaller, manageable piecesWhy listening to your body and setting boundaries is crucialTimestamps:00:01 – Introduction to languishing and the spectrum of mental health02:30 – Dr. Jessi Gold’s personal story of burnout during the pandemic05:15 – How even mental health experts can miss the signs of burnout07:20 – Burnout as a workplace issue and how it differs from depression08:45 – Symptoms of depression vs. burnout explained11:00 – The challenge of relationships when you feel burned out12:45 – Practicing patience and grace with yourself13:40 – Listening to your body and adjusting your workload14:30 – Why coping skills must be personalized, not one-size-fits-all16:00 – Self-care as rest, not just more items on a to-do list18:20 – Closing thoughts, resources, and upcoming episodesExplore 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, Trony Small shares his family’s journey through trauma, loss, and resilience. Growing up in Milwaukee with a mother living with cerebral palsy, Trony and his brothers experienced discrimination, instability, and profound grief after their mother’s death. When his younger brother Justin was later diagnosed with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, stigma and lack of resources made getting help difficult. Justin’s eventual suicide left a lasting impact, fueling Trony’s mission to support other families navigating mental health challenges.This conversation explores the ways family trauma, cultural silence, and systemic inequities intersect—and how breaking stigma, increasing resources, and starting honest conversations can save lives.Link to video with more information: https://www.facebook.com/2016557181923354/posts/2948490168730046/?d=nMHA of WI's Next Step Clinic: http://www.mhawisconsin.org/mha-wi-counseling-clinicPrimary Topics Covered:The impact of family trauma and generational silence on mental healthGrowing up with poverty, discrimination, and instabilityGrieving a parent’s death at a young ageThe effects of unaddressed trauma on siblings and family dynamicsStigma and cultural barriers in Black communities around mental healthA brother’s struggle with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and suicideHow lack of resources and systemic inequities worsen outcomesFinding hope through advocacy, education, and breaking silenceTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to the episode and theme of family trauma 01:31 - How trauma shapes family dynamics and belonging 02:27 - Growing up in Milwaukee with poverty and discrimination 03:42 - The loss of Trony’s mother and its impact on his family 05:00 - Prayer as the family’s response to trauma instead of open discussion 06:05 - Writing a poem about his brothers and their mother’s legacy 07:22 - How the youngest brother, Justin, was most affected by loss 08:12 - Early signs of Justin’s struggles and the family’s response 09:12 - Learning about mental illness through NAMI and conversations with Justin 10:40 - Justin’s diagnosis of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder 11:34 - His death by suicide at age 23 12:03 - The need for better family and community support 13:06 - Barriers to mental health care in underserved communities 14:39 - Trony’s work today helping families access treatment and resources 15:22 - Closing reflections and advocacy for changeExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Family trauma doesn’t just affect one person — it ripples through generations, shaping identities, relationships, and opportunities for healing.In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Trony Small shares his family’s story of growing up in Milwaukee with poverty, discrimination, and loss. After the death of his mother, Trony and his brothers faced instability, grief, and stigma that made conversations about mental health nearly impossible. When his youngest brother Justin was later diagnosed with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, the family struggled to navigate a system with limited resources and cultural barriers to care. Justin’s death by suicide at 23 left a lasting impact and inspired Trony to help other families facing similar challenges.This moving conversation highlights the intersections of family trauma, racial inequities, and mental health stigma—and reminds us that storytelling, advocacy, and community support are vital parts of healing.Link to video with more information: https://www.facebook.com/2016557181923354/posts/2948490168730046/?d=nMHA of WI's Next Step Clinic: http://www.mhawisconsin.org/mha-wi-counseling-clinicPrimary Topics Covered:The impact of family trauma and silence on mental healthGrowing up with poverty, discrimination, and systemic inequitiesCoping with the loss of a parent at a young ageHow stigma and cultural silence affect conversations about mental illnessA brother’s struggle with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and suicideThe role of NAMI and education in understanding mental illnessBarriers to accessing quality mental health care in underserved communitiesTurning grief into advocacy and support for other familiesTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction: family trauma and mental health 01:31 – How trauma shaped Trony’s childhood and family dynamics 02:27 – Growing up in Milwaukee amid poverty and discrimination 03:42 – The loss of his mother and its lasting impact 05:00 – Prayer and silence instead of open discussions about trauma 06:05 – Writing poetry as a way to process pain 07:22 – How Justin, the youngest brother, was most deeply affected 08:12 – Early signs of mental illness and the family’s struggles to respond 09:12 – Learning through NAMI about schizophrenia and bipolar disorder 10:40 – Justin’s diagnosis and challenges navigating treatment 11:34 – His death by suicide at 23 12:03 – The importance of family and community support 13:06 – Systemic barriers to mental health care for Black families 14:39 – Trony’s advocacy and mission to help other families 15:22 – Closing reflections on healing and changeExplore 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, we explore the healing impact of peer support and online community in managing depression. Through the powerful stories of Bea and Debbie, listeners hear how reaching out—even to strangers online—can provide connection, hope, and life-saving encouragement during the darkest moments.From tattoos symbolizing love, life, and sorrow, to messages that pulled someone back from the brink of suicide, these lived experiences highlight that sometimes the most meaningful help doesn’t come from professionals, but from people who have “been there” too.Whether you’re seeking support or wondering how to offer it, this conversation reveals how empathy, kindness, and a few heartfelt words can make all the difference.Primary Topics Covered:Why peer support is critical for people with depressionThe role of online communities in reducing stigma and isolationReal-life stories of support during moments of crisisHow empathy and lived experience can save livesEncouragement for reaching out and responding when someone is strugglingTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to the podcast and hosts 01:00 - The importance of asking for and offering support 02:00 - How a Facebook community stepped up to support struggling members 03:30 - Bea’s story: life, love, sorrow, and finding connection online 05:00 - The value of empathy in mental health struggles 07:20 - How support helped Bea through her husband’s sudden death 09:00 - Debbie’s story: reaching out during a suicidal crisis 11:30 - Why lived experience matters more than clinical advice in certain moments 13:30 - The lifesaving impact of online support and encouragement 15:00 - Reflection: the human need for connection and peer support 17:00 - Closing thoughts and invitation to join the communityExplore 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, we explore how online peer support groups provide strength, connection, and hope for those living with depression. Guests Bea and Debbie share deeply personal stories of how community and lived experience offered them comfort and even saved lives during times of despair.From messages that pulled someone back from suicidal thoughts to the ongoing encouragement of strangers who “get it,” this conversation shows the real impact of peer support for depression. Sometimes, the most powerful help doesn’t come from professionals, but from people who have walked the same road and are willing to listen, validate, and stand beside you.If you’ve ever wondered how to find depression help online or how to be there for someone who’s struggling, this episode offers practical insight, encouragement, and hope.Primary Topics Covered:The role of online communities in coping with depressionHow peer support reduces stigma and isolationBea’s story: grief, love, and finding strength through connectionDebbie’s story: how an online message prevented suicideWhy lived experience matters in supporting mental healthThe healing power of empathy, validation, and being heardEncouragement for reaching out and offering supportTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to the episode and hosts 01:00 - Why asking for and offering support matters 02:00 - Online communities as safe spaces for depression support 03:30 - Bea’s story: tattoos, grief, and the importance of connection 05:00 - The role of empathy in mental health struggles 07:20 - How community helped Bea after her husband’s sudden death 09:00 - Debbie’s story: reaching out during a suicidal crisis 11:30 - The lifesaving impact of simple, caring words 13:30 - Why lived experience support differs from clinical advice 15:00 - Reflections on connection, hope, and peer support 17:00 - Closing thoughts and invitation to join the conversationExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Medication for depression and anxiety is one of the most debated topics in mental health. Some people credit antidepressants with saving their lives, while others avoid them out of fear or stigma. In this candid conversation, psychiatrist Dr. Jessi Gold joins the Giving Voice to Depression podcast to break down the realities of seeing a psychiatrist, starting medication, and managing expectations. We discuss how to know when it’s time to consider meds, common side effects, treatment myths, and why combining therapy with medication is often most effective.Whether you’re hesitant about antidepressants, already taking them, or supporting someone who is, this episode offers clarity, honesty, and hope.Primary Topics Covered:Misconceptions and stigma surrounding antidepressantsWhen it’s time to see a psychiatristWhat happens at a first psychiatric visitSide effects and how to manage themThe reality of waiting for medications to workWhy therapy + medication can be the most effective treatmentThe difference between feeling “different” vs. being “overmedicated”Treatment-resistant depression and what it meansTimestamps:00:05 - Introduction to the episode 01:02 - Meme that captures the antidepressant debate 01:31 - Why antidepressants are controversial 01:52 - Considering meds for depression or anxiety 02:28 - Dr. Jessi Gold joins the conversation 03:15 - When people typically seek a psychiatrist 03:38 - Therapy plus medication: a powerful combination 04:11 - Signs it’s time to consider meds 05:14 - What to expect from a first psychiatric visit 06:14 - Stigma and resistance around psychiatry 07:17 - Why antidepressants take time to work 08:05 - Common side effects and how people manage them 08:56 - Do antidepressants actually work? 09:53 - Will medication change my personality? 11:02 - Comparing meds vs. untreated depression 11:22 - Concerns about being on medication long-term 12:34 - Misconceptions about “treatment-resistant” depression 14:14 - Why a pill isn’t a magic fix 14:59 - Therapy’s role alongside medication 16:24 - The goal isn’t constant happiness—it's balance 17:20 - Bridget shares her own med experience 17:47 - Terry reflects on her own medication journey 18:15 - Psychiatry as “throwing darts in the dark” 18:37 - Gratitude for Dr. Gold’s insights 18:53 - Closing thoughts and invitation to connect onlineExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Deciding whether to try medication for depression or anxiety can feel overwhelming. How do you know if it’s time to see a psychiatrist? What should you expect from a first visit? And what role do antidepressants really play in treatment?In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, psychiatrist Dr. Jessi Gold joins the conversation to break down the realities of medication as a treatment option. From addressing stigma to explaining side effects and the importance of therapy, Dr. Gold provides clarity and reassurance for anyone considering antidepressants—or supporting a loved one who is.If you’ve ever wondered about the pros and cons of medication, what “treatment-resistant depression” really means, or how to find the right support system, this episode offers insight, honesty, and hope.Primary Topics Covered:The stigma and misconceptions surrounding antidepressantsWhen it may be time to see a psychiatristWhat to expect during your first psychiatric visitWhy therapy plus medication is often the most effective treatmentSide effects of antidepressants and how to manage themThe timeline for antidepressants to start workingMisunderstandings about “treatment-resistant depression”Why meds aren’t a magic fix but can be an important tool in recoveryTimestamps:00:05 - Introduction to the episode 01:02 - Meme that captures the antidepressant debate 01:31 - Why antidepressants are controversial 01:52 - Considering medication for depression or anxiety 02:28 - Guest introduction: Dr. Jessi Gold 03:15 - When people typically seek psychiatric help 03:38 - Why therapy plus medication often works best 04:11 - How to know when it’s time to consider meds 05:14 - What happens during a first psychiatric visit 06:14 - The stigma around psychiatry and seeking help 07:17 - How long antidepressants take to start working 08:05 - Common side effects and what to expect 08:56 - Do antidepressants actually work? 09:53 - Addressing fears about meds changing personality 11:02 - Comparing untreated depression vs. being on meds 11:22 - Concerns about long-term use of antidepressants 12:34 - What “treatment-resistant depression” really means 14:14 - Why medication isn’t a magic fix 14:59 - The role of therapy alongside antidepressants 16:24 - The goal of medication: balance, not constant happiness 17:20 - Bridget shares her medication experience 17:47 - Terry reflects on her own journey with meds 18:15 - Why treatment can feel like “throwing darts in the dark” 18:37 - Closing thanks to Dr. Gold 18:53 - Final reflections and invitation to connectExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Trauma doesn’t end with the people who experience it. It can echo across generations, shaping families, communities, and even entire cultures.In this powerful conversation, Mark Powless, a member of the Oneida Nation, shares his story of growing up on a reservation and learning how historical trauma — from boarding schools to cultural erasure — continues to affect Native communities today.We explore how generational trauma impacts mental health, the ways it can manifest as depression, anger, and addiction, and most importantly, how healing practices like sweat lodges, cultural traditions, and open conversations can begin to break the cycle.This is a deeply human story of pain, resilience, and hope — and a reminder that healing is possible when we acknowledge the past and care for the present.Resources Mark suggests: Oneida Nation website: https://oneida-nsn.gov/Sky Woman Lives in Me by Roberta Capasso: https://www.amazon.com/Sky-Woman-Lives-Roberta-Capasso/dp/1483443469Boarding School Seasons: American Indian Families, 1900-1940 by Brenda Child: https://www.amazon.com/Boarding-School-Seasons-American-1900-1940-dp-0803214804/dp/0803214804/ref=mt_other?_encoding=UTF8&me=&qid=Healing the Sound Wound by Eduardo Duran: https://www.amazon.com/Healing-Soul-Wound-Trauma-Informed-Multicultural/dp/0807761397/Primary Topics Covered:What intergenerational trauma is and how it’s passed downThe impact of historical traumas such as boarding schoolsHow normalized pain and abuse affect Native communities todayThe connection between generational trauma and depressionPersonal reflections on family, grief, and healingThe role of cultural identity in resilience and recoveryIndigenous healing practices and the importance of storytellingHope for future generations through awareness and compassionTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction to the episode and context of trauma 01:01 – How trauma changes our sense of safety and identity 01:48 – Understanding intergenerational trauma in Native communities 03:08 – Mark Powless shares his experiences growing up on the reservation 03:59 – Recognizing historical events behind today’s struggles 05:06 – The trauma of boarding schools and cultural erasure 06:11 – Disconnection from family and community 06:44 – Silence, shame, and unspoken pain among elders 07:39 – Coping mechanisms: substance abuse and anger 08:35 – The cultural and emotional significance of hair in Native traditions 09:57 – Triggering events and reactivated trauma 11:21 – Carrying grief and inherited pain across generations 13:49 – Breaking cycles: Indigenous healing practices 14:17 – Teaching mental wellness to the next generation 14:57 – Healing as a lifelong process of compassion and patience 15:54 – Closing reflections on trauma, healing, and storytellingExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Trauma doesn’t always end with the person who experiences it. It can be passed down through families, shaping identities, relationships, and even entire communities.In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Mark Powless, a member of the Oneida Nation, shares his story of growing up in a Native community still impacted by the historical trauma of boarding schools and cultural erasure.We explore how generational trauma contributes to depression and other mental health challenges, why silence and stigma persist, and how Indigenous healing practices are helping to restore identity, connection, and resilience.This is a conversation about loss, survival, and the powerful role of culture in creating pathways to healing.Resources Mark suggests: Oneida Nation website: https://oneida-nsn.gov/Sky Woman Lives in Me by Roberta Capasso: https://www.amazon.com/Sky-Woman-Lives-Roberta-Capasso/dp/1483443469Boarding School Seasons: American Indian Families, 1900-1940 by Brenda Child: https://www.amazon.com/Boarding-School-Seasons-American-1900-1940-dp-0803214804/dp/0803214804/Healing the Sound Wound by Eduardo Duran: https://www.amazon.com/Healing-Soul-Wound-Trauma-Informed-Multicultural/dp/0807761397/Primary Topics Covered:What generational trauma is and how it’s passed downThe connection between historical trauma and depressionBoarding schools, cultural erasure, and their lingering effectsWhy silence, shame, and stigma prevent open conversationsSubstance use and anger as coping mechanisms for traumaHow cultural identity shapes resilience and recoveryThe role of Indigenous healing practices like sweat lodgesBuilding awareness and hope for future generationsTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction and overview of generational trauma 01:01 – Trauma’s impact on identity, safety, and belonging 01:48 – Intergenerational trauma in Native communities explained 03:08 – Mark Powless shares his personal story 03:59 – Historical events shaping present-day struggles 05:06 – The trauma of boarding schools and cultural erasure 06:11 – Family disconnection and inherited silence 07:39 – Coping through anger, grief, and substance use 08:35 – The meaning of cultural traditions in healing 09:57 – Triggers and reactivation of old wounds 11:21 – Carrying grief across generations 13:49 – Indigenous practices for breaking cycles of trauma 14:17 – Teaching younger generations about mental health 14:57 – Healing as a lifelong journey 15:54 – Closing reflections on trauma and resilienceExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Starting mental health conversations with children can feel intimidating—but avoiding them can leave kids unprepared and alone with their struggles. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, guest TJ shares why he chose to talk openly with his son about depression, anxiety, and PTSD, and how those conversations helped build understanding, trust, and resilience.You’ll hear TJ’s powerful story of survival, his lessons on overcoming stigma, and his belief that the earlier we start teaching kids it’s okay to talk about feelings, the stronger and healthier future generations will be.Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or loved one, this episode will give you tools and hope for creating safe spaces for kids to discuss emotions and mental health without shame.Primary Topics Covered:Why it’s important to start mental health conversations with children early.How TJ’s lived experience with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD shaped his parenting.The impact of parental mental health on children’s wellbeing.Overcoming stigma by making emotions and mental health safe to talk about.Strategies for explaining depression and anxiety to kids without overwhelming them.Why listening without judgment is key when kids open up.Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction to the episode 01:40 – Why families should normalize conversations about mental health 03:25 – TJ’s personal journey with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD 05:15 – Struggles with medication, treatment, and relapse 06:36 – Suicide attempts and the turning point for seeking help 07:19 – How TJ’s son noticed changes in his father’s mental health 08:06 – Why TJ decided to talk openly with his child about depression 09:45 – Teaching kids that mental health struggles are not their fault 10:41 – Using natural moments to start conversations about emotions 11:30 – Explaining depression and anxiety to children in an age-appropriate way 13:09 – Why parents need to model openness and honesty 14:59 – Encouraging kids to share feelings without shame 15:33 – Fighting stigma by teaching children early 16:34 – Prioritizing kids’ mental health as much as other safety lessons 18:40 – Final reflections and takeawaysExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/