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

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/

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/

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/