Giving Voice to Depression

Did you know the words we use every day can reveal whether someone is struggling with depression — or even having suicidal thoughts?In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Bridget and Terry explore how symptoms and signs of depression show up in language. Drawing on research from Crisis Text Line and Dr. Mohammed Al-Masawi, we look at how certain words, phrases, and thinking styles provide clues to a person’s mental state.From surprising text keywords that flag high suicide risk, to the dangers of absolutist thinking (“always,” “never,” “completely”), this conversation shows how small language cues can signal something much deeper. By noticing these signs — in ourselves and in others — we can start meaningful conversations, offer support, and even save lives.Link to article: https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/depression-language-differently-mental-health-kurt-cobain-a8194731.htmlPrimary Topics Covered:The connection between depression and language patternsHow Crisis Text Line uses keyword analysis to detect suicide riskSurprising words and emojis linked to suicidal thoughtsDr. Mo’s research on absolutist thinking in depression and anxietyWhy words like “always,” “never,” and “completely” are red flagsHow rigid language reveals mental health strugglesThe difference between negative thoughts and rigid thinking stylesHow therapists and loved ones can challenge harmful word patternsWhy paying attention to language can prevent suicidePractical strategies for recognizing and shifting depressive thinkingTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction: The power of words in depression  01:00 – Crisis Text Line’s findings on suicide-related keywords  02:21 – Surprising signs: “800 mg” and the pill emoji  03:26 – Dr. Mohammed Al-Masawi’s research on depression language  04:08 – What absolutist thinking means and why it matters  05:33 – Common words: “always,” “never,” “completely” as indicators  06:33 – How language rigidity signals deeper mental struggles  07:05 – Spotting absolutist thinking in everyday conversations  07:53 – Strategies to challenge harmful word patterns  08:38 – Why thinking style, not just content, predicts depression  09:59 – The role of loved ones and therapists in noticing language  11:45 – Absolutist thinking across anxiety, depression, and self-harm  12:32 – How technology is being used to detect suicide risk  13:23 – Bridget reflects on her own word choices  14:37 – Key takeaway: noticing words can save lives  15:17 – Closing thoughts 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/

In this season review, Terri and Bridget reflect on the powerful mental health conversations from Season 16 of Giving Voice to Depression. From learning how breathwork can ground us in overwhelming moments, to confronting stigma, to understanding medication without shame, this season covered a wide range of tools and truths about living with depression.Listeners will hear highlights on:Why breath is a free and effective mental health management tool.Honest discussions about depression, stigma, and suicidal thoughts as common experiences.The importance of hope and meaning, even when it feels impossible to find.The reality of antidepressants—not as a cure-all, but as a valid option.Why shared stories are powerful in dismantling stigma.The mental health system in crisis—barriers to access, representation, and affordability.This recap is both informative and hopeful, reminding us that while depression isolates, connection and open conversations can make all the difference.Primary Topics Covered:Depression coping strategies (breathing, tracking, and routines)Talking openly about suicidal thoughts without stigmaHope as a therapeutic and necessary lifelineAntidepressants: benefits, drawbacks, and real experiencesHow stigma prevents people from seeking helpSystemic mental health challenges: access, cost, and representationTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction and purpose of Season 16 recap 01:26 – Episode 163: Breath as a Mental Health Management Tool 02:55 – Episode 164: Talking About Depression Like It’s Common 04:06 – Episode 165: The Year in Review – Mental Health in 2020 05:17 – Episode 166: Holding on to Hope 06:28 – Episode 167: Depression Is a Sickness, Not a Weakness 07:42 – Episode 168: A Conversation About Antidepressants 09:01 – Episode 169: The Power of Shared Stories in Fighting Stigma 10:27 – Episodes 170–171: Stigma is Real & Life Would Be Safer Without Stigma 12:22 – Episode 172: The Value of Tracking Mental Health Symptoms 14:17 – Episode 173: Depression Is Not a Weakness (Victor Armstrong) 15:06 – Episode 174: The Mental Health System in Crisis 17:00 – Looking ahead to Season 17 and call for listener feedback 18:04 – Closing thoughts 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/

Season 16 of Giving Voice to Depression was filled with raw honesty, practical tools, and powerful insights into living with depression. In this recap, Terri and Bridget highlight the most impactful lessons from the season, offering listeners both validation and hope.The season explored:Breath as a grounding tool to manage overwhelming emotions.Suicidal thoughts as a common, not shameful, part of depression.The essential role of hope in recovery.Real talk about antidepressants—their benefits, limitations, and stigma.The power of sharing stories to dismantle shame and isolation.Hard truths about the mental health system—including access, affordability, and representation.Whether you’re struggling with depression or supporting someone who is, this episode offers a powerful reminder that recovery isn’t linear—but community, hope, and honest conversations can make the journey lighter.Primary Topics Covered:Coping strategies for depression (breath, routines, tracking)The role of hope in mental health recoveryDepression stigma and why shared stories matterAntidepressants and medication managementTalking openly about suicidal thoughtsSystemic barriers in the mental health systemTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction and reflection on Season 16 01:26 – Breath as a mental health management tool 02:55 – Talking about depression like it’s common 04:06 – Reviewing the mental health impact of 2020 05:17 – Holding on to hope in dark times 06:28 – Depression is a sickness, not a weakness 07:42 – Real conversations about antidepressants 09:01 – Fighting stigma through shared stories 10:27 – The dangers of stigma and its real consequences 12:22 – The value of tracking mental health symptoms 14:17 – Why depression is not weakness (Victor Armstrong’s insights) 15:06 – The mental health system in crisis 17:00 – Looking ahead to Season 17 and listener feedback 18:04 – 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/

The U.S. mental health system is under immense strain. Too many people experiencing depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts face stigma, delayed care, or even criminalization instead of support. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we speak with Victor Armstrong, Director of North Carolina’s Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Abuse, about the urgent need for systemic change.Victor explores why mental health is often misunderstood, how racial and cultural barriers limit access to treatment, and why our reliance on law enforcement in mental health emergencies too often leads to tragic outcomes. He also discusses suicide prevention, peer support, and why shifting from “crisis response” to real emergency care could save countless lives.If you’ve ever wondered why the mental health system feels broken—and what can be done to fix it—this episode provides hope, perspective, and a roadmap for change.Primary Topics Covered:Why depression is widely misunderstood and stigmatized.The racial and cultural gaps in U.S. mental health care.Masculinity, stigma, and the underdiagnosis of depression in men.Criminalization of mental illness and the failure of crisis response.Why we must treat mental health episodes as emergencies, not just “crises.”Suicide prevention strategies that go beyond hotlines and hospitalizations.The role of peer support and community resources in mental health recovery.A message of hope: “No matter who you are, your life matters.”Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction to the episode 01:20 – Why understanding depression matters 02:07 – Misunderstandings and stigma around mental illness 03:18 – Racial and cultural barriers to seeking treatment 04:23 – Masculinity, stigma, and underdiagnosis in men 05:19 – How mental illness becomes criminalized 06:02 – Emergency vs. “crisis”: the language problem 07:10 – The risks of involving law enforcement in mental health calls 08:29 – Why the system—not the individual—is in crisis 09:11 – How we talk about suicide: shifting the narrative 11:27 – Why people fear discussing mental illness too closely 12:09 – The value of 24/7 crisis lines and anonymous support 13:22 – Suicide prevention as “upstream” intervention 14:04 – Building stronger community partnerships for care 14:18 – The power of peer support specialists 15:23 – A message of hope: “You matter. Your life matters.” 17:42 – 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/

The United States is facing a mental health crisis, but too often the people most in need are met with stigma, misunderstanding, or even criminalization instead of care. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we talk with Victor Armstrong, Director of North Carolina’s Division of Mental Health, about why the system feels broken and what needs to change.Victor explains why depression and other conditions are so often misunderstood, how racial and cultural barriers prevent access to care, and why law enforcement is too often called on during mental health emergencies—with dangerous results. He also shares hope and practical solutions, including suicide prevention strategies, peer support programs, and the importance of treating mental health as an emergency instead of a secondary issue.If you or someone you love has ever struggled to get help, this episode will help you understand the bigger picture of America’s mental health system—and where real change is possible.Primary Topics Covered:Why depression is misunderstood and stigmatizedHow cultural and racial barriers shape access to careThe dangerous intersection of mental illness and law enforcementWhy we should say “mental health emergency” instead of “crisis”Suicide prevention: going beyond hotlines and hospitalsPeer support and community partnerships that make a differenceA message of hope: every life matters, and help is availableTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction to the episode 01:20 – Why understanding depression matters 02:07 – Misunderstandings and stigma around mental illness 03:18 – Racial and cultural barriers to seeking treatment 04:23 – Masculinity, stigma, and underdiagnosis in men 05:19 – How mental illness becomes criminalized 06:02 – Emergency vs. “crisis”: the language problem 07:10 – The risks of involving law enforcement in mental health calls 08:29 – Why the system—not the individual—is in crisis 09:11 – How we talk about suicide: shifting the narrative 11:27 – Why people fear discussing mental illness too closely 12:09 – The value of 24/7 crisis lines and anonymous support 13:22 – Suicide prevention as “upstream” intervention 14:04 – Building stronger community partnerships for care 14:18 – The power of peer support specialists 15:23 – A message of hope: “You matter. Your life matters.” 17:42 – 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/

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, mental health advocate Victor Armstrong takes on the harmful myth that depression is a sign of weakness. He explains how stigma — in families, communities, and churches — adds unnecessary shame and prevents people from getting help.Victor shares his lived experience growing up in the rural South, where mental illness wasn’t openly discussed, and reflects on how cultural and systemic stigma still shape the way we talk about depression today. He also highlights the hidden strength of people who live with depression or suicidal thoughts — noting that survival itself is an act of courage.The episode also features an excerpt from Lauren Brady’s piece, “The Strength in Depression,” which powerfully reframes depression not as weakness, but as resilience.This is an important conversation for anyone who has ever felt shame because of their mental health — and for allies who want to better understand and fight stigma.Primary Topics Covered:Why depression is misunderstood as “weakness”How stigma in communities and churches impacts mental healthDepression as resilience, not moral failureThe pandemic’s role in increasing awareness — and challengesReading from “The Strength in Depression” by Lauren BradyWhy compassion and understanding are more powerful than judgmentTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction to guest Victor Armstrong 01:08 – How social media led to this important conversation 02:14 – Victor’s message: “You matter. You are not alone.” 03:23 – Seeing people for who they are, not their illness 04:28 – Why depression is not weakness 05:41 – How the pandemic impacted mental health stigma 07:37 – Why awareness must lead to action 08:54 – Growing up where mental health wasn’t discussed 09:57 – Why people with depression face discrimination 11:21 – How cultural stigma prevents open conversations 13:03 – Lauren Brady’s essay “The Strength in Depression” 16:25 – Closing reflections: strength in survivalExplore 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, mental health advocate Victor Armstrong challenges one of the most damaging myths about depression: that it signals weakness or a moral failing. Instead, he reframes living with depression as an act of resilience and courage.From growing up in the rural South, where mental illness was often stigmatized in church and community life, to his work in public health leadership, Victor brings a candid and compassionate perspective on why mental health stigma persists — and how we can start to change it.You’ll also hear reflections from the article The Strength in Depression by Lauren Brady, reminding us that even small daily acts — like getting out of bed — demonstrate strength and survival.This conversation is a must-listen for anyone struggling with feelings of shame, guilt, or weakness because of depression, and for those who want to better support loved ones on their mental health journeys.Primary Topics Covered:Why depression is often (wrongly) seen as a sign of weaknessHow stigma in families, churches, and communities makes things worseThe hidden strength of people living with suicidal ideation or chronic depressionThe pandemic’s impact on mental health awarenessWhy compassion, not judgment, is essential for healingLauren Brady’s perspective: “The Strength in Depression”Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction to the episode and guest Victor Armstrong 01:08 – How social media connected the hosts with Victor 02:14 – Victor’s message of reassurance: “You matter. You are not alone.” 03:23 – Seeing people for their humanity, not “weakness” 04:28 – Why labeling people with depression as weak is harmful 05:41 – The pandemic’s toll on adults, parents, and children 07:37 – Why awareness isn’t enough without action 08:54 – Growing up in the Black church where mental illness wasn’t discussed 09:57 – Why people with depression face unique discrimination 11:21 – Why mental health is still taboo in many communities 13:03 – Reading Lauren Brady’s article “The Strength in Depression” 16:25 – Final reflections: depression as both a burden and a source of 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/

How can tracking your mental health symptoms actually help you feel better? In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, writer Jennifer Tzeses shares practical ways to track depression, anxiety, and bipolar symptoms—from sleep patterns and mood swings to daily routines and habits.We explore simple tools like journals, rating scales, and apps that make self-monitoring easier and more effective. By noticing early warning signs, you can work with your doctor to adjust treatment, prevent relapse, and build stronger mental health resilience.Whether you’re managing depression, living with bipolar disorder, or supporting someone who is, this episode highlights small, daily steps that make a big difference.Link to article on bipolar disorder management:https://www.healthcentral.com/slideshow/ways-to-stay-steady-with-bipolar-disorderLink to article on winter seasonal depression:https://www.healthcentral.com/slideshow/winter-and-low-moodLink to article on Mental Health Apps:https://www.psycom.net/25-best-mental-health-appsPrimary Topics:Why tracking depression and anxiety symptoms is importantEarly warning signs that signal a downturnThe role of sleep and daily routines in mental health stabilityEasy tracking tools: journals, calendars, apps, and wearablesHow symptom tracking supports therapy and medication adjustmentsUsing mood tracking to improve communication with doctors and loved onesTimestamps:00:00 – Welcome and introduction 01:04 – Coping with mental health during the pandemic 03:01 – Understanding bipolar disorder: depression and mania 04:11 – Recognizing early warning signs and triggers 05:09 – Sleep disturbances as key indicators 07:26 – Building consistent daily routines 07:57 – Tracking moods and symptoms regularly 09:55 – How self-monitoring helps with treatment adjustments 10:57 – Why keeping objective records is critical 12:37 – Journals, calendars, and digital tools for tracking 13:48 – Tracking as a tool for supportive conversations 14:23 – Keeping it simple: emojis, colors, Fitbits 16:39 – Encouraging listeners to share their tracking methods 17:09 – Closing reflections on awareness and 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/

Managing mental health starts with awareness. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we talk with writer Jennifer Tzeses about the power of tracking symptoms, sleep, and moods to better manage depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety.From keeping a simple journal to using digital apps and wearable tech, we explore practical ways to notice early warning signs, prevent relapses, and work with your doctor more effectively. Whether you’re living with depression or supporting someone who is, this conversation provides doable strategies that set you up for success.Link to article on bipolar disorder management:https://www.healthcentral.com/slideshow/ways-to-stay-steady-with-bipolar-disorderLink to article on winter seasonal depression:https://www.healthcentral.com/slideshow/winter-and-low-moodLink to article on Mental Health Apps:https://www.psycom.net/25-best-mental-health-appsPrimary Topics Covered:Why self-monitoring is key in managing depression and bipolar disorderEarly warning signs and triggers to watch forThe role of sleep in mental health stabilitySimple tracking methods (journaling, rating scales, apps, wearables)How mood tracking helps with medical treatment and therapyWays tracking can strengthen support systems and conversationsTimestamps:00:00 – Welcome and introduction to the episode 01:04 – Coping with mental health during the pandemic 03:01 – Understanding bipolar disorder: depression and mania 04:11 – Warning signs and triggers to watch for 05:09 – Sleep disturbances as a key indicator 07:26 – The importance of consistent routines 07:57 – Tracking moods and symptoms daily or weekly 09:55 – How tracking supports treatment and medication adjustments 10:57 – Why objective records matter in mental health care 12:37 – Using simple tools: journals, calendars, or apps 13:48 – Tracking as a supportive conversation starter 14:23 – Making it simple: frown faces, color coding, Fitbits 16:39 – Listener engagement and sharing tools 17:09 – Closing reflections: understanding, connection, and 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/

Stigma around depression and mental illness is not just about feeling misunderstood—it has life-threatening consequences. In this episode, we conclude our three-part series on stigma by exploring how shame, judgment, and fear keep people from reaching out for help.You’ll hear from past guests who describe how stigma delayed their diagnoses, deepened their suffering, and in some cases, nearly cost them their lives. We also discuss self-stigma, the power of open conversations, and how society would look if mental health was treated like physical health.This episode is both a warning and a call to action: breaking stigma saves lives.Primary Topics Covered:The real-life impact of stigma on mental health help-seekingHow self-stigma silences people in need of supportThe role of language in shaping perceptions of depressionThe connection between stigma and suicide riskWhy treating mental illness like a physical illness reduces judgmentPractical ways to create safe spaces for mental health conversationsTimestamps:00:01 – Introduction: stigma and its impact on depression and mental illness 02:00 – Why the words we use (mental illness vs. mental health challenge) matter 03:25 – Depression is not a choice—but ignorance and discrimination are 04:40 – Guests share how stigma delayed help-seeking and deepened suffering 06:13 – Why asking for therapy or psychiatry feels so different from asking for a dentist 07:29 – The role of shame and appearances in hiding mental illness 08:34 – Stigma as a driver of isolation, delayed diagnosis, and suicide risk 09:17 – Guests reflect on how reducing stigma could save lives 10:41 – Treating depression like a physical illness: a vision for the future 11:20 – The power of shared stories in breaking stigma and offering hope 12:06 – Advice to listeners: listen, support, and resist judgment 13:30 – Closing reflections and gratitude to guests and 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/