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

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/

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/