Giving Voice to Depression

Stigma is more than an abstract concept—it can mean the difference between life and death. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we explore how shame, judgment, and misunderstanding about mental illness keep people from seeking help, delay treatment, and increase suicide risk.Through the voices of past guests, we hear firsthand how stigma silenced them, deepened their struggles, and nearly cost lives. We also examine self-stigma—the harsh inner critic that reinforces silence—and what could change if we treated depression like any other illness.This episode is both a warning and a call to action: ending stigma saves lives.Primary Topics Covered:How mental health stigma prevents people from seeking careThe role of self-stigma in silencing people in needHow stigma impacts diagnosis, treatment, and recoveryThe deadly link between stigma and suicide riskWhy language matters in talking about depression and mental illnessReframing depression as a health condition, not a weaknessThe importance of open dialogue and lived experience storiesTimestamps:00:01 – Introduction: why stigma still matters 02:00 – Language, labels, and their impact on perceptions of depression 03:25 – Depression isn’t a choice, but stigma fuels judgment 04:40 – Guests describe how stigma delayed their diagnosis and treatment 06:13 – Why seeking mental health care feels harder than physical health care 07:29 – How shame and fear keep people silent about mental illness 08:34 – The connection between stigma and suicide risk 09:17 – Guests reflect on how breaking stigma could have saved lives 10:41 – Imagining a world where mental illness is treated like any other illness 11:20 – The role of personal stories in breaking stigma 12:06 – Advice to listeners: listen, support, and avoid judgment 13:30 – Closing reflections and gratitudeExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Stigma keeps too many people silent—and too many people suffering. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Terry and Bridget continue their exploration of stigma with powerful reflections from past guests who reveal the very real consequences of judgment, silence, and discrimination around depression.From hiding struggles at work, to being misunderstood in faith and family circles, to waiting years before finally seeking treatment, stigma shows up in countless harmful ways. This conversation breaks down the difference between public stigma and self-stigma, shares lived experiences of how both take root, and emphasizes why early intervention is critical for survival.Depression is not weakness—and ending stigma is a matter of life and death.Primary Topics Covered:What stigma really means in the context of depressionThe difference between public stigma and self-stigmaHow shame and judgment prevent people from seeking treatmentGuest stories of discrimination in workplaces, families, and faith communitiesThe misconception that depression is laziness or weaknessThe connection between stigma, suicide, and delayed diagnosisWhy early recognition and support are vital to healingTimestamps:00:01 – Introduction to the episode and stigma series 01:09 – Why stigma is a barrier to recovery 01:52 – Defining stigma: a “mark of disgrace” 02:29 – Public stigma vs. self-stigma explained 03:09 – Guest stories: lived experience of stigma 04:10 – Fear of telling employers about depression 04:25 – The myth of laziness and judgment of depression 05:27 – Why silence feels safer than speaking up 06:13 – Stigma during pregnancy and parenting 06:29 – The role of identity and faith in mental health stigma 07:12 – Why many believe depression is “wrong” to admit 07:59 – Misconceptions: weakness, choice, or failure 08:41 – Stigma’s ties to suicide and broken families 09:42 – Why people wait until crisis to seek help 10:29 – Ten-year delays in diagnosis and treatment 11:15 – Why ignoring symptoms costs lives 11:50 – Stigma making depression feel like “who you are” 12:21 – Community reflections on stigma and discrimination 13:13 – The added burden of stigma in bipolar and disability experiences 13:27 – Closing reflections and gratitudeExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Stigma is more than a word—it’s a barrier to treatment, recovery, and even survival. In this episode, we continue our series on the stigma of mental illness, featuring real voices who share how discrimination, shame, and silence have shaped their lives with depression.Terry and Bridget revisit past conversations with guests who reveal the painful realities of stigma—from hiding depression at work to fearing judgment during pregnancy, to the struggle of seeking treatment years too late. Together, they unpack the devastating impact of public stigma, self-stigma, and systemic prejudice, and highlight the urgent need for early intervention and open conversations.This episode reminds us that fighting stigma isn’t just about awareness—it’s about saving lives.Primary Topics Covered:The definition and different types of stigma (public vs. self-stigma)How stigma discourages people from seeking help or disclosing depressionGuest stories of judgment and discrimination in workplaces, families, and communitiesThe impact of stigma on treatment delays and worsening symptomsConnections between stigma, shame, and dangerous misconceptions about depressionWhy prevention and early intervention are critical to reducing sufferingTimestamps:00:01 – Introduction to the stigma series 01:09 – Why stigma is still a barrier to recovery 01:52 – Defining stigma: “a mark of disgrace” 02:29 – Public stigma vs. self-stigma explained 03:09 – Guest voices on real experiences of stigma 04:10 – Fear of telling employers about depression 04:25 – The myth of laziness and judgment of depression 05:27 – How stigma silences people from revealing struggles 06:13 – Pregnancy, depression, and stigma 06:29 – Intersection of identity and stigma (queer, faith, community) 07:12 – The logic of silence: why we assume depression is “wrong” 07:59 – Misconceptions: depression as weakness or personal failure 08:41 – Stigma’s link to suicide, violence, and broken families 09:42 – Why we can’t wait until crisis to seek help 10:29 – Ten-year delays in diagnosis and treatment 11:15 – Why ignoring early symptoms costs lives 11:50 – Stigma makes depression feel like “who you are” 12:21 – Community reflections on discrimination and judgment 13:13 – Stigma piled on top of bipolar and disability experiences 13:27 – Closing thanks and invitation for listeners to share their storiesExplore 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 we fight mental health stigma in a meaningful way? Research shows it’s not just about education—it’s about connection. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we explore the transformative power of sharing personal stories. Featuring insights from Dr. Patrick Corrigan, one of the world’s leading stigma researchers, this conversation highlights why lived experiences of depression matter and how “on the way down” and “on the way up” stories can change perceptions, foster empathy, and build hope.We also reflect on the lessons learned over years of podcasting and how honest conversations create spaces where people can safely share their truths. Whether you’re struggling yourself or supporting someone you love, this episode offers validation, connection, and encouragement that no one is alone in their journey.Primary Topics Covered:Why education alone doesn’t reduce mental health stigmaThe importance of face-to-face interactions and personal storytelling“On the way down” and “on the way up” narratives in recoveryRisks and benefits of sharing your mental health storyThe role of allies in supporting those with lived experienceShifting stigma from a public health issue to a social justice issueLessons from four years of the podcast in reducing shame and fostering hopeTimestamps:00:02 – Introduction to the episode and podcast anniversary 01:32 – Why the podcast began: using stories to fight isolation 02:15 – Dr. Patrick Corrigan on stigma research and misconceptions 03:23 – Why education alone doesn’t reduce stigma 03:58 – The power of recovery-focused “on the way up” stories 04:40 – Corrigan shares his own lived experience with mental illness 06:00 – The ripple effect of people openly sharing their stories 07:24 – Risks and rewards of “coming out” about mental health struggles 08:48 – Reframing the value of lived experience and resilience 09:41 – Stigma as a social justice issue, not just public health 10:28 – The role of allies and safe spaces in stigma reduction 12:14 – Personal reflections on learning to “talk back” to depression 13:24 – Closing reflections on hope, resilience, and solidarityExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Does educating people about mental illness actually reduce stigma? According to Dr. Patrick Corrigan, one of the world’s leading researchers on stigma, the answer is no. In fact, teaching that depression is a “brain disease” may unintentionally make stigma worse.So what does work? Sharing real stories of lived experience—stories that include the struggle and the recovery.In this powerful conversation, Dr. Corrigan explains why “coming out” about depression and mental illness is an act of authenticity, not weakness. He shares his own experience living with depression and bipolar disorder, and why stories of recovery are essential for changing public perception.Framing stigma as a social justice issue, Dr. Corrigan calls on people with lived experience to lead the way—and shows how every personal story has the power to reduce shame, increase hope, and build connection.Primary Topics Covered:Why education about “mental illness as a brain disease” often increases stigmaResearch from the National Consortium on Stigma and EmpowermentThe power of “on the way down” and “on the way up” storiesDr. Corrigan’s personal journey with depression and bipolar disorderWhy “coming out” about mental illness reduces shame and stigmaLessons from LGBTQ+ stigma reduction effortsRisks and benefits of self-disclosure in different settingsWhy stigma must be fought as a social justice issue, not just a public health problemPractical ways listeners can help reduce stigmaTimestamps00:10 Introduction from Bridget and Terry 00:46 Bridget reflects on honesty after losing a friend to cancer 01:47 Meet Dr. Patrick Corrigan, stigma researcher and psychologist 02:26 Why education doesn’t reduce stigma—and can make it worse 02:55 The effectiveness of face-to-face storytelling 03:01 “On the way down” and “on the way up” stories of mental illness and recovery 03:26 Dr. Corrigan shares his own lived experience 05:03 Why authenticity matters more than pity 05:17 How sharing stories reduces shame and stigma 06:16 Lessons from LGBTQ+ communities on stigma reduction 06:25 Risks and rewards of “coming out” about mental illness 07:22 Why recovery stories highlight resilience and empowerment 08:06 Why stigma is a social justice issue 08:50 Why people with lived experience must lead the change 09:21 Practical advice for safely sharing your story or being an ally 10:27 Reflections on the power of openness in reducing shame 11:52 Closing thoughts: as shame goes down, hope goes upExplore 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 struggled with the decision to start antidepressants—or know someone who has—this episode offers honest insights that might change the conversation. Sports broadcaster and mental health advocate Michael Landsberg shares his personal journey through depression, his resistance to medication, and the lessons he learned after multiple relapses.Michael’s candid reflections challenge stigma and encourage openness, especially among men and those who feel pressure to “tough it out.” You’ll hear how he finally accepted help, what he’s learned about managing depression, and the one phrase that helped him reframe his relationship with meds: “Learn to love the thing you hate the least.”Sick Not Weak's Website: https://www.sicknotweak.com/Primary Topics Covered:How stigma stops people from seeking help for depressionMichael Landsberg’s personal journey with major depressive disorder and anxietyThe trial-and-error process of finding the right antidepressantSide effects, relapses, and the danger of stopping medication too soonDestigmatizing conversations around medication and mental illnessThe concept of “learning to love the thing you hate the least”Warning signs of a depressive relapse and how to respondWhat real recovery looks like—not perfect days, but better onesThe impact of sharing mental health stories publicly and shamelesslyHow to compassionately approach someone resistant to treatmentTimestamps:00:00 Podcast intro and acknowledgements01:27 Listener email sparks today's topic: How to talk about meds02:33 Meet Michael Landsberg and hear his quick story summary03:44 Breaking stigma: Mental illness doesn't equal weakness04:49 Michael’s early experiences with antidepressants05:44 The 2008 relapse that changed everything07:03 Why he now stays on meds—and what finally convinced him07:42 Debunking the phrase “I don’t believe in medication”08:57 Side effects vs. suffering: choosing what you hate the least09:45 Why people refuse treatment—and why they shouldn’t10:41 Identifying warning signs of a depressive slide12:36 Michael’s relapse markers: withdrawal, silence, and fear14:25 How he pulls back from the edge—strategies that work15:21 The value of counting good days vs. bad days17:26 Real destigmatization: honest, shameless storytelling18:14 Final reflections and call to action: speak up, listen upExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Why is there still so much resistance to taking antidepressants when they can be life-changing for people living with depression? In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we talk with Michael Landsberg, founder of the mental health initiative Sick Not Weak, about his personal journey with depression, the stigma surrounding antidepressants, and why acknowledging depression as an illness — not a weakness — is the first step toward recovery.Through candid stories, we explore what it feels like to live with untreated depression, how to recognize its subtle onset, and the importance of seeking professional help. Michael’s message is clear: taking medication for depression is no different than taking medication for any other health condition. By sharing openly, we help break stigma, shorten the time it takes for others to get help, and remind each other that depression is treatable and hope is real.Primary Topics Covered:The stigma around antidepressants and why many resist medicationMichael Landsberg’s personal experience with anxiety, depression, and treatmentHow to recognize the often subtle onset of depression symptomsWhy seeking treatment early makes recovery more likelyThe power of shared stories to fight stigma and isolationHow friends and family can notice changes and start supportive conversationsTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction: About Giving Voice to Depression and today’s topic 01:01 – Listener question: Why do people resist antidepressants? 02:28 – Starting the conversation: Stigma around depression treatment 04:29 – Michael Landsberg shares his early anxiety and later depression 06:20 – Realizing “sick, not weak” and building a movement around it 08:33 – The turning point: Seeing a psychiatrist for the first time 10:45 – Why depression can creep in so slowly it goes unnoticed 12:05 – How family and friends can step in when someone isn’t themselves 13:33 – The isolation of depression vs. the reality of millions sharing it 15:14 – The power of shared stories to normalize treatment and hope 16:16 – Hosts reflect on their own journeys and the importance of naming experiences 17:09 – Medication, recovery, and the risks of going on/off without support 18:00 – Closing reflections: If you’re struggling, speak up. If someone else is, listen up.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 robs us of hope, making it feel impossible to believe things can get better. In this candid episode of Giving Voice to Depression, licensed psychotherapist Lauren Bittner joins Bridget and Terry to talk about why hope matters, how to find it when you feel like giving up, and the small but powerful ways we can anchor ourselves during overwhelming times.Lauren shares practical strategies for coping with hopelessness, building resilience, and finding strength in community. Using relatable metaphors like an anchor and buoy, she helps listeners see that even when depression’s waves are strongest, there are ways to keep holding on.Whether you’re struggling yourself or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers real talk, validation, and practical hope.Link to Lauren Bittner's site: https://lauren1bittner.wixsite.com/instillhopePrimary Topics Covered:Why hope is essential for those living with depressionThe difference between giving up emotionally vs. perseveringHow community and connection build resiliencePractical coping strategies for navigating hopelessnessVisualization and grounding exercises (anchors, buoys, storms)How to offer hope to others when they can’t find it themselvesThe importance of small steps forward (even just “scooching”)Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction: Giving Voice to Depression and today’s focus on hope 01:30 – Why hope feels scarce but is vital in depression recovery 02:40 – Guest introduction: Therapist Lauren Bittner on maintaining mental health 03:18 – High-functioning people struggling and the exhaustion of resilience 04:14 – The role of community and connection in resilience 05:25 – Lauren shares her lived experience with anxiety and depression in 2020 06:02 – Isolation as both symptom and fuel for depression 08:18 – The danger of giving up and how to counter it 10:15 – Turning pain into passion and purpose as a survival strategy 10:24 – Anchor and buoy visualization for weathering depression’s storms 12:23 – Common “anchors” people can rely on when hopeless 13:56 – The ripple effect of holding on for others and community 15:22 – The power of vulnerability and shared stories 16:48 – Closing message: giving yourself the gift of not giving up 17:55 – Practical advice: moving forward even if hope doesn’t feel real 18:41 – Quote on moving forward step by step, moment by moment 19:18 – Final reflections: community, connection, and seeking hope 22:42 – Closing: Remember to speak up if you’re struggling, listen if someone else isExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

What does it really mean to be living with depression and bipolar II?In this intimate rebroadcast, Kristin, a published poet and artist, shares her journey through recurring deep depressions, hospitalizations, and the daily fight against suicidal thoughts. She describes how writing, poetry, and art helped her give voice to depression — and how community, medication, and self-expression provided a path forward.Kristin calls her illness a “terrible gift.” Through her words, she reminds us that while depression is isolating and cruel, there are ways to find value, healing, and even beauty in survival.If you’ve ever searched for what depression feels like or wondered how to cope with bipolar disorder, Kristin’s story is a reminder that you are not alone — and that healing can come through connection, creativity, and courage.Link to Kristin poetry: KristinRoedell.wikidot.comPrimary Topics Covered:Kristin’s experience living with depression and bipolar IIHow writing and poetry became a lifeline through dark timesHospitalizations, suicidal thoughts, and finding supportCoping with panic attacks and the need for self-compassionWhy she calls her depression a “terrible gift”The role of medication and therapy in bipolar disorder recoveryHow stigma isolates people — and why sharing your voice mattersFinding beauty, community, and meaning even in sufferingTimestamps:00:00 Intro: holiday rebroadcast and season update 02:07 Introducing Kristin: poet, artist, and survivor 03:12 Depression, worth, and inherent value beyond productivity 04:30 Living through recurring depressions and survival mindset 05:14 Coping with panic attacks and social withdrawal 06:08 Giving voice to depression through poetry and writing 07:30 The lies depression tells vs. the truth of connection 08:23 Living with bipolar II: cycles, hypomania, and deep depression 09:38 Hospitalizations, suicidal thoughts, and finding community 11:33 Jung’s “shadow” and turning pain into creativity 12:36 Why she calls depression a “terrible gift” 13:46 Daily coping: medication, therapy, journaling, and affirmations 15:32 Kristin shares her poem “I Swallowed Hope That Winter” 16:58 Reflections on resilience, wisdom, and community 18:10 Closing thoughts: “Carry on. You are worthy.”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, Jordan shares his deeply personal journey through depression, alcoholism, and recovery. For years, he wore a mask of strength, hiding his pain from friends and family while secretly struggling with overwhelming sadness and anxiety. Turning to alcohol for relief only worsened his depression, leading to a downward spiral of hospitalizations, jail, and a suicide attempt.But Jordan’s story is also one of resilience and transformation. After finally committing to sobriety, he not only found healing but also discovered purpose in helping others. Now, as a mental health professional, Jordan supports people at their lowest moments—reminding them that recovery is possible and that they are not alone.If you or someone you love is battling depression or addiction, Jordan’s journey offers hope, strength, and a reminder that change is possible, no matter how dark things feel.Primary Topics Covered:The hidden pain of growing up with depressionSelf-medication and how alcohol worsens depressionHitting rock bottom: hospitalization, jail, and a suicide attemptThe turning point: choosing sobriety and taking mental health seriouslyThe importance of therapy, medication, and daily commitment to wellnessFinding strength and purpose in helping others with depression and addictionWhy hearing "I’ve been where you are" can be life-savingTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction to the episode and guest 02:29 – Jordan recalls early signs of depression as a child and teen 03:56 – Hiding depression from family, friends, and teammates 04:33 – First experiences with alcohol and its temporary relief 05:40 – When alcohol turned destructive: AA, jail, and hospitalization 07:14 – Hiding in closets: depression, anxiety, and isolation 08:19 – Hospitalization and suicide attempt lead to formal diagnosis 09:05 – Finding sobriety and learning how to manage depression 10:25 – Becoming a mental health professional to help others 12:04 – Jordan’s message: recovery is possible, even when it feels impossible 13:25 – Full-circle moment: working in the same facility where he once received care 14:15 – The power of telling someone, “I’ve been where you are”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/