Giving Voice to Depression

How do you explain depression and anxiety to children in ways they can understand? In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, guest TJ shares his powerful story of living with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD—and why he made the decision to talk openly with his young son about mental health.By breaking silence and stigma, TJ gave his child the tools to recognize emotions, ask questions, and understand that mental health struggles are not anyone’s fault. His experience shows that when we start mental health conversations early, we give children a foundation of compassion, resilience, and hope.This episode is for parents, teachers, and caregivers who want to know how to talk to children about mental health in a safe, supportive, and age-appropriate way.Primary Topics Covered:Why children’s mental health should be prioritized as much as physical health.TJ’s personal journey with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.The role of family openness in reducing stigma.How parental mental health affects children.Practical tips for explaining depression and anxiety to children.The importance of listening without judgment when kids share their feelings.Why early mental health conversations build resilience for the future.Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction 01:40 – Why children need open conversations about mental health 03:25 – TJ’s experience with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD 05:15 – Struggles with medication, treatment, and relapse 06:36 – Suicide attempts and reaching a turning point 07:19 – How TJ’s son noticed his struggles 08:06 – Choosing 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 11:30 – Explaining depression and anxiety in kid-friendly ways 13:09 – Parents modeling openness and honesty 14:59 – Helping kids feel safe sharing their emotions 15:33 – Fighting stigma early through family conversations 16:34 – Prioritizing children’s mental health alongside other life skills 18:40 – Closing reflections and encouragementExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

What happens when traditional therapies don’t work? For many people living with depression, the path to healing isn’t straightforward. In this candid conversation, Renee shares her decades-long depression recovery journey shaped by childhood trauma, failed therapies, and the eventual discovery of support systems that finally helped her heal.From surviving sexual abuse and risky behaviors to discovering the power of group therapy and art therapy, Renee’s story is a testament to persistence — and a reminder that recovery from depression is possible when you find what works for you.If you’ve ever felt stuck, hopeless, or convinced that nothing will help, this episode offers hope, validation, and encouragement to keep searching.Primary Topics Covered:How adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) influence lifelong mental healthRenee’s early experiences with depression and self-harmWhy talk therapy and medication didn’t work for her at firstThe role of a judge in redirecting her toward helpThe impact of disclosing childhood sexual abuseWhy depression was a symptom of unresolved traumaDiscovering group therapy as a safe and validating spaceArt therapy as a tool for expression and healingLearning coping skills and identifying triggersWhy no single therapy works for everyoneEncouragement to persist in finding the right supportTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction  01:02 – Depression recovery is possible, even if it feels hopeless  01:20 – Renee’s early trauma and family history of suicide  03:23 – Childhood self-harm and first hospitalization  03:57 – Failed attempts with talk therapy and medication  04:38 – Risky behaviors and intervention from a judge  05:37 – Disclosure of childhood sexual abuse during therapy  06:37 – The long-lasting impact of trauma on mental health  07:28 – Realizing depression was a symptom of unresolved trauma  08:29 – Taking the scary first step into a survivor support group  09:27 – Discovering art therapy as a healing practice  10:32 – Learning coping skills and recognizing triggers  11:57 – The value of peer support in group therapy  13:12 – Why healing isn’t one-size-fits-all  14:11 – Encouragement: your depression is not your fault  15:44 – Why speaking up about your struggles matters  16:34 – Survivor’s manifesto and closing reflections  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/

Depression and childhood trauma are deeply connected, but the path to healing is rarely straightforward. Many survivors spend years trying different therapies, medications, and support systems before finding what actually helps.In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Renee shares her personal depression recovery journey, shaped by early childhood trauma, failed treatments, and the eventual discovery of group and art therapy. Her story is both raw and hopeful — showing that while healing looks different for everyone, persistence in finding therapy that works can make all the difference.Listeners will learn how trauma influences depression, what symptoms often get overlooked, and why no single therapy works for every survivor. If you’ve ever felt stuck or hopeless, this conversation offers validation, encouragement, and a reminder that recovery is possible.Primary Topics Covered:The connection between childhood trauma and depressionEarly warning signs and symptoms of depression in childrenRenee’s personal history of abuse, self-harm, and early hospitalizationsWhy traditional talk therapy and medication didn’t work for her initiallyThe impact of disclosing childhood sexual abuse during therapyRecognizing depression as a symptom of unresolved traumaHow group therapy provided safety, validation, and connectionThe role of art therapy in expression and healingLearning coping skills and managing emotional triggersWhy every recovery journey is unique — and requires persistenceEncouragement for survivors: finding therapy that truly worksTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction  01:02 – The link between depression and childhood trauma  01:20 – Renee’s early trauma and family history of suicide  03:23 – Self-harm and first hospitalization as a child  03:57 – Why talk therapy and medication failed at first  04:38 – Risky behaviors and intervention from a judge  05:37 – Disclosing sexual abuse in therapy sessions  06:37 – How unresolved trauma shaped lifelong depression  07:28 – Realizing depression was a symptom, not the root cause  08:29 – First steps into a survivor support group  09:27 – Discovering art therapy as a tool for healing  10:32 – Coping skills and identifying emotional triggers  11:57 – The value of peer support in recovery  13:12 – Why therapy must be personalized to work  14:11 – Encouragement: your depression is not your fault  15:44 – Speaking up and advocating for your needs  16:34 – Closing reflections and survivor’s manifesto  Explore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, singer-songwriter Demetra Prochaska shares how her journey with depression and suicidal thoughts found expression through music. From her teenage years navigating divorce, foster care, and a residential treatment program to writing her haunting song “I’m Not Okay” during the pandemic, Demetra shows how songwriting became both an outlet for pain and a pathway toward hope.She opens up about the importance of trusted adults, the role of coping skills, and why asking for help can be an act of survival. Her story is both heartbreaking and inspiring — and her music reminds us that while depression tells us lies, hope and healing remain possible.Link to Demetra's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCijatOUHQY9g-hjS4_mBzqQPrimary Topics Covered:The connection between depression and music as emotional expressionDemetra’s experience with depression starting in her teensThe importance of trusted adults and guidance counselorsResidential treatment and its role in her recoveryWriting “I’m Not Okay” during the pandemic as a cry for helpDifferentiating between not wanting to live like this vs. not wanting to liveCoping skills: reaching out, checking in with herself, and practicing self-careThe healing and reflective power of songwritingTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to the episode and co-hosts 02:01 - How music lyrics reflect depression 02:49 - Introducing Demetra and her mental health journey 03:20 - Early experiences with depression and lack of open conversation 03:56 - Turning to trusted adults and feeling heard 05:34 - Entering residential treatment and shifting perspectives 07:00 - Looking back at life before treatment 08:18 - Depression during the pandemic and unbearable lows 09:26 - Writing the song “I’m Not Okay” as a cry for help 10:34 - Exploring suicidal ideation and the desire for change 11:45 - Holding onto hope while in pain 13:37 - Reaching out for help instead of masking 14:33 - Coping strategies and self-reflection 15:45 - Seeking reassurance and reminders of worth 17:01 - Escalating depression and need for professional support 18:12 - Lessons on asking for help and reflecting on self-worth 20:35 - Full performance of “I’m Not Okay”Explore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

In this powerful episode of Giving Voice to Depression, musician Demetra Prochaska shares her deeply personal story of living with depression and how songwriting became both a survival tool and a source of hope.From her teenage years marked by family struggles, foster care, and residential treatment, to writing her song “I’m Not Okay” during the isolation of the pandemic, Demetra opens up about how music gave voice to emotions she couldn’t express otherwise.Her story highlights the difference between not wanting to live and not wanting to live like this, the importance of reaching out for help, and how creative expression can offer both reflection and healing.Whether you’re living with depression, supporting someone who is, or searching for healthy coping strategies, this conversation offers honesty, vulnerability, and a reminder that you are not alone.Link to Demetra's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCijatOUHQY9g-hjS4_mBzqQPrimary Topics Covered:How music and songwriting can help express depression and anxietyDemetra’s early experiences with depression as a teenagerThe importance of trusted adults, teachers, and counselorsResidential treatment as a turning point in her recovery journeyThe story behind “I’m Not Okay” and writing through the pandemicUnderstanding suicidal ideation and the desire for changePractical coping skills: self-reflection, reaching out, and self-careThe role of creative outlets in healing and recoveryTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction and context for the episode 02:01 - Music as a mirror for depression and emotions 02:49 - Demetra’s story begins: early signs of depression 03:20 - Struggles in teen years and lack of open conversation about mental health 03:56 - Finding guidance and support from trusted adults 05:34 - Entering residential treatment and shifting her outlook 07:00 - Reflecting on life before receiving help 08:18 - Depression and struggles during the pandemic 09:26 - Writing “I’m Not Okay” as a cry for help 10:34 - Suicidal thoughts: wanting change vs. not wanting life to end 11:45 - Holding onto hope while facing deep depression 13:37 - The importance of reaching out instead of masking pain 14:33 - Coping strategies and checking in with herself 15:45 - Seeking reassurance and reminders of self-worth 17:01 - Recognizing when professional help is needed 18:12 - Lessons on self-worth, asking for help, and reflection 20:35 - Full performance of “I’m Not Okay”Explore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we focus on recognizing the early warning signs of a mental health crisis — and what you can do to prevent it.Guest Corinne shares her deeply personal story of struggling with depression during pregnancy and how reaching out for help saved her life. She introduces a simple “mental health scale” that helps her identify when things are worsening before they reach crisis levels.We also explore practical coping strategies for depression and anxiety, including therapy, exercise, sleep, and meditation, as well as the life-saving role of connection and support.This episode is a reminder that awareness and action can make the difference between crisis and recovery. By learning how to spot the signs and respond early, we can protect ourselves — and those we love.Link to Corinne's article: https://qz.com/1381952/suicide-hotlines-really-do-save-lives-i-know-because-one-saved-mine/Primary Topics Covered:The importance of early recognition of depression and anxiety symptomsCorinne’s story of calling a suicide prevention hotlineUsing the mental health scale to track wellness and risk levelsKey coping strategies to prevent escalation into crisisWhy connection, honesty, and empathy are essential for healingThe role of prevention-focused mental health supportTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction and framing the conversation 01:14 - Corinne’s struggle with depression during pregnancy 02:31 - Why sharing lived experiences is life-saving 04:25 - The mental health “scale” as a self-monitoring tool 05:31 - Coping strategies: therapy, exercise, sleep, meditation 06:20 - Building trust and connection as protective factors 07:34 - How to tell when depression turns toward crisis 09:19 - Suicide prevention hotlines as critical lifelines 10:44 - Breaking stigma through honesty about mental health 12:04 - Final reflections on prevention and resilience 13:20 - 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/

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we explore how to prevent a mental health crisis before it escalates. Our guest, Corinne, shares her powerful story of reaching out for help during one of her darkest moments — a call that saved her life.She explains the early warning signs of depression and how she uses a simple scale to monitor her mental health before reaching a breaking point. Corinne walks us through practical coping strategies like therapy, exercise, sleep, meditation, and building a strong support network.This conversation is a reminder that crisis prevention starts with awareness — knowing when to check in with yourself, when to reach out, and how to stay connected. Mental health struggles don’t have to be faced in silence or shame.Whether you live with depression or love someone who does, this episode offers life-saving insights about staying safe, building resilience, and finding hope.Link to Corinne's article: https://qz.com/1381952/suicide-hotlines-really-do-save-lives-i-know-because-one-saved-mine/Primary Topics Covered:Why early intervention is critical in managing depression and anxietyCorinne’s personal story of calling a suicide prevention hotlineThe “mental health scale” tool for monitoring warning signsCoping strategies that help prevent escalation into crisisThe role of connection, empathy, and honesty in healingBreaking the silence: why we need to talk openly about depressionTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction and episode context 01:14 - Corinne’s experience with depression during pregnancy 02:31 - Why sharing recovery stories matters 04:25 - The mental health “scale” for self-monitoring 05:31 - Corinne’s personal coping steps: therapy, exercise, sleep, meditation 06:20 - The importance of trusted connections and support 07:34 - Understanding when depression shifts from sadness to crisis 09:19 - Suicide prevention hotlines as life-saving interventions 10:44 - The power of honesty and breaking silence about depression 12:04 - Final reflections and takeaways 13:20 - 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/

If you’ve ever wondered what actually happens when you call a suicide prevention hotline, you’re not alone. Fear, stigma, and uncertainty often stop people from reaching out for the help they desperately need.In this episode, journalist Corinne Purtill courageously shares her story of calling a crisis line during one of the darkest moments of her life. She describes the shame, hesitation, and fear she carried into the call — and how the compassionate voice on the other end helped her find hope.We’ll explore what happens when you call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, how trained counselors respond, and why you don’t need to be at “rock bottom” to reach out. This conversation is proof that talking saves lives, and that help is always available.Primary Topics Covered:Misconceptions about suicide hotlines and crisis linesCorinne Purtill’s lived experience of calling for helpWhat really happens when you call 988How shame and stigma stop people from reaching outThe power of hearing a supportive voice in crisisWhy you don’t need to be suicidal to call a hotlineSigns it’s time to reach out for helpTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction: Why suicide hotlines matter 01:00 – The purpose of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 02:06 – Corinne’s story: reaching the breaking point 03:34 – Depression’s silence and isolation 04:35 – Shame and stigma around calling for help 06:05 – The “smile mask” and hidden depression 06:54 – Suicidal thoughts and secrecy 08:08 – Depression’s biggest lie 09:09 – Planning to end her life 09:43 – The moment she called the hotline 10:30 – What to say when reaching out 10:57 – The importance of having the right words 11:24 – What happens if you’re placed on hold 12:46 – Recovery: therapy and medication support 13:38 – Recognizing warning signs before crisisExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

When you’re struggling with depression, suicidal thoughts, or overwhelming emotions, picking up the phone to call a suicide prevention hotline can feel intimidating. But knowing what to expect can make it easier to take that first step.In this episode, journalist Corinne Purtill shares her powerful personal story of calling a crisis line at one of the darkest points in her life. She opens up about the fear, shame, and misconceptions she carried into the call — and how the trained listener on the other end helped her find connection and hope.We explore the reality of what happens when you dial 988, the national Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: how the call works, who answers, and why you don’t need to be suicidal to reach out. This conversation is a reminder that crisis lines save lives, and that help is always available, 24/7.Primary Topics Covered:Misconceptions about suicide prevention hotlinesWhat really happens when you call 988Corinne’s personal story of reaching out during crisisHow depression convinces people to stay silentThe role of shame and stigma in hiding suicidal thoughtsThe lifesaving power of having the right words to ask for helpRecovery and support after making that first callTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction: Why 988 matters 01:00 – The purpose of the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 02:06 – Corinne’s story: never expecting to call 03:34 – How depression silences us 04:35 – Privacy vs. shame: the myths about hotlines 06:05 – Hiding depression behind a smile 06:54 – The role of shame in suicidal thoughts 08:08 – Depression’s biggest lie 09:09 – Corinne makes a plan to end her life 09:43 – The moment she called the hotline 10:30 – What to say when you reach out 10:57 – Why the right words matter 11:24 – What happens if you’re on hold when calling 988 12:46 – Recovery through therapy and medication 13:38 – Warning signs to watch for before “code red”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/

Depression often hides in plain sight — not just in behaviors, but in the words we use every day. Research shows that certain language patterns can signal emotional distress, depression, and deeper mental health struggles.In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Bridget and Terry explore the warning signs of depression in everyday language. From Crisis Text Line’s analysis of millions of high-risk messages to Dr. Mohammed Al-Masawi’s research on absolutist thinking (“always,” “never,” “completely”), listeners will learn how seemingly simple word choices can reveal hidden struggles.This episode offers insight into how language can both reflect and shape our mental health, and why paying attention to the words we — and our loved ones — use can open the door to better support, understanding, and recovery.Link to article: https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/depression-language-differently-mental-health-kurt-cobain-a8194731.htmlPrimary Topics Covered:How depression shows up in the words we useCrisis Text Line’s findings on language patterns in people at riskUnexpected keywords and emojis that reveal emotional distressDr. Mo’s research on absolutist thinking and depressionThe role of words like “always,” “never,” and “completely” in rigid thought patternsWhy thinking style is as important as content in predicting depressionHow recognizing warning signs in language can help with early interventionPractical tips to shift from harmful word patterns to healthier communicationHow awareness of language can support both prevention and recoveryTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction: Why everyday language reveals depression  01:00 – Crisis Text Line’s keyword analysis on high-risk messages  02:21 – Surprising words and emojis tied to emotional distress  03:26 – Dr. Mohammed Al-Masawi’s research on language and depression  04:08 – What absolutist thinking looks like in practice  05:33 – Words like “always,” “never,” “completely” as warning signs  06:33 – How rigid language signals underlying mental health struggles  07:05 – Identifying absolutist thinking in yourself and others  07:53 – Strategies to challenge harmful thought patterns  08:38 – Why changing thinking style takes time and support  09:59 – The role of loved ones, peers, and therapists in noticing language  11:45 – Absolutist thinking across anxiety, depression, and self-harm  12:32 – Using technology and research to improve prevention  13:23 – Bridget’s reflection: catching herself using rigid words  14:37 – Key takeaway: words matter, and they reveal hidden struggles  15:17 – Closing reflections and encouragement  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/