Giving Voice to Depression

Most of us would never speak to a friend the way we speak to ourselves. Yet for people living with depression, negative self-talk and constant self-criticism can feel relentless and exhausting.In this episode, we explore how to challenge the inner critic and begin building a voice of self-compassion instead. You’ll hear real stories from people who struggle with the daily cycle of “I’m not enough” and learn practical strategies for shifting toward kinder, more balanced self-talk.Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, or just the weight of unrealistic expectations, this episode will help you see why words matter — especially the ones you say to yourself.Link to Dr. Kristin Neff's Self-Compassion program: https://self-compassion.org/link Link to Barbara's Mindful Self-Compassion website: CompassionMKE.comPrimary Topics Covered:Why self-talk has such a powerful impact on mental healthCommon patterns of negative self-talk in people with depressionThe difference between self-awareness and self-criticismWhy the inner critic is loudest during stress or isolationPractical techniques for catching and reframing harmful thoughtsThe role of self-compassion in healing and recoveryHow practicing new internal dialogue strengthens resiliencePersonal stories of moving from harshness to kindnessTimestamps:00:00 – Intro: The hidden weight of negative self-talk 01:19 – Why we speak to ourselves more harshly than to loved ones 02:36 – Common forms of self-criticism in people with depression 04:05 – The difference between self-awareness and destructive judgment 05:42 – How depression amplifies feelings of “not enough” 07:13 – Techniques to notice and interrupt negative thought spirals 09:28 – Reframing: turning “I’m a failure” into “I’m learning” 11:02 – Why self-compassion is not self-indulgence 12:18 – Stories of people practicing kinder internal dialogue 14:05 – Building resilience through positive self-talk habits 15:27 – Closing: Choosing words that heal instead of harmExplore 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, Dr. Barbara Moser—a retired physician and suicide prevention advocate—guides us through practical, evidence-based mindfulness and self-compassion techniques.These simple yet powerful exercises can help you calm your nervous system, lower stress, and create space for resilience when depression or anxiety feels overwhelming. From mindful breathing to self-soothing touch and emotional naming, Dr. Moser shows how small, daily practices can make a meaningful difference in mental health and emotional stability.If you’re looking for accessible, real-world tools to manage stress, depression, and anxiety, this episode is a compassionate place to start.Primary Topics Covered:What self-compassion really means and why it improves mental healthHow mindfulness helps regulate emotions during times of stressBreathing techniques to calm the nervous system and reduce anxietyUsing longer exhalations to reset during difficult momentsThe role of soothing touch in emotional regulation and groundingNaming emotions to create space and reduce overwhelmWhy practicing mindfulness and self-compassion supports suicide preventionPractical ways to weave these exercises into daily lifeEpisode Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction and welcome01:34 – Why this season focuses on mental health during the pandemic02:44 – Guest introduction: Dr. Barbara Moser03:05 – What self-compassion is and why it matters04:33 – How self-compassion helps with depression and anxiety05:17 – The definition and power of mindfulness06:26 – Using mindfulness in unpredictable times07:37 – Combining mindfulness and self-compassion for coping08:09 – Dr. Moser shares her personal struggles and tools09:22 – Choosing mindful actions when feeling overwhelmed09:59 – Guided breathing exercise for grounding12:08 – The science behind longer exhalations12:53 – Using soothing touch for self-care and comfort14:52 – Practicing self-care as a way of meeting, not erasing, emotions15:34 – Naming emotions to increase resilience16:35 – 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/

How do you deal with depression in isolation?In this powerful conversation, Hobbs shares how the pandemic amplified his depression, turning simple check-ins like “how are you?” into impossibly complicated questions. He describes the exhaustion of constant change, the loneliness of lost routines, and the mood swings that can shift within hours.Through honesty and vulnerability, Hobbs reveals the coping tools that keep him afloat — community, exercise, medication, and the support of hearing others’ stories. His words remind us that while depression lies and isolation magnifies it, connection and self-care can help us find steadier ground.If you’ve ever wondered how to deal with depression when you’re exhausted or alone, Hobbs’ story offers comfort and validation.Primary Topics Covered:Why “How are you?” feels more complicated during a pandemicLiving with depression when moods shift multiple times a dayThe impact of isolation and lost routines on mental healthPhysical signs of depression and stress (clenched jaw, exhaustion)Why exhaustion is a universal experience during times of changeCoping tools: exercise, community, and medicationFighting stigma around men and antidepressantsDepression’s inner voice vs. your true selfBuilding a “depression toolbox” before a crisis hitsThe importance of speaking up, listening up, and connectionTimestamps:00:00 Intro — revisiting an archived conversation 01:00 Why “how are you?” feels so different during the pandemic 02:30 Hobbs on mood swings: “I can only tell you how I feel right now” 04:10 The role of news, negativity, and triggers in daily mood shifts 05:40 Isolation and the loss of community/exercise routines 07:40 Exhaustion and sleeping up to 18 hours at a time 09:50 Recognizing depression’s impact on body and mind 11:00 Normalizing brain fog and fatigue in uncertain times 12:15 Why hearing others’ stories builds connection and hope 14:00 Depression’s inner voice vs. reality — battling absolutes (“always,” “never”) 15:40 Hobbs on the “depression toolbox” — medication, exercise, community 17:30 Breaking stigma: why men also need medication and support 18:50 Closing reflections: self-care, connection, and the value of every listenerExplore 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 special Season 14 review episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Bridget and Terry look back at the powerful stories, expert insights, and lessons shared over the past 13 episodes. From navigating depression during the uncertainty of COVID-19 to breaking stigma, preventing suicide, and planning for wellness, this season brought raw honesty and deep hope.Listeners will hear highlights from conversations about:How the pandemic changed mental health and may help reduce stigmaThe reality of “the impossible task” and depression’s hidden strugglesReturning to work during COVID-19 and frontline mental health challengesPersonal recovery stories that dismantle stigma and inspire hopeSuicide prevention through shared lived experience and recovery plansTools like WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan) to prepare before crisisThis recap offers reassurance, reflection, and reminders that you are not alone—especially in times of uncertainty and struggle.Primary Topics Covered:How COVID-19 exposed mental health struggles and stigmaDepression symptoms that don’t always look like sadnessWorkplace challenges during and after the pandemicFirsthand stories of suicidal thoughts, attempts, and recoveryThe importance of planning ahead with safety and wellness strategiesStigma vs. recovery in mental illness (including bipolar disorder)Tools and therapies for calming racing thoughts (ACT therapy)The power of children’s voices and recognizing early depression signsTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction and context: pandemic, uncertainty, and mental health 01:11 – Why Suicide Prevention Awareness Month mattered more than ever 02:37 – Could COVID-19 finally destigmatize mental illness? (Dr. Jessi Gold) 04:13 – The “impossible task” explained with lived experience (M. Mali Bacchus) 05:28 – Returning to work and pandemic anxiety (Sayair Sultan) 07:12 – Mental health on the COVID frontline (hospital chaplain Christy) 09:22 – Stigma vs. recovery: Michelle Yang’s bipolar disorder story 10:51 – Stopping a racing mind with ACT therapy (Dr. Steven C. Hayes) 12:59 – Children and depression: spotting the signs (Susan Ringle) 14:24 – Bob’s story: suicide attempt and recovery 16:21 – “Don’t give up”: voices of survivors offering hope 18:00 – Creating a crisis plan: WRAP safety strategies with Katrina Koppel 20:20 – Closing reflections and looking ahead to Season 15Explore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

When life feels overwhelming, having a mental health crisis plan in place can be the difference between spiraling and finding stability. In this episode, we continue our discussion of the Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) and explore how to identify triggers, recognize early warning signs, and create a personalized strategy to protect yourself during difficult moments.With guest Katrina, an advanced WRAP facilitator, we walk through practical steps you can take to strengthen your resilience and give your support network the tools they need to step in effectively when things get tough.This conversation is about empowerment, preparation, and hope — because mental health planning is not a sign of weakness, but a form of self-care and strength.Link to PDF WRAP Worksheet: www.getselfhelp.co.uk/docs/WRAP.pdfInfo on Wellness Recovery Action Plans: https://www.wellnessrecoveryactionplan.com/Primary Topics Covered:What a mental health crisis plan (WRAP) is and why it mattersIdentifying triggers and how to respond to them in healthy waysRecognizing early warning signs before things worsenHow to create a personal action plan for when things start to break downThe role of support networks in crisis planningPractical steps for post-crisis recovery and reflectionHow WRAP plans empower individuals through choice and preparationTimestamps:00:49 – Introduction to the Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) 01:13 – Defining triggers and why identifying them matters 02:19 – Common examples of external triggers 03:42 – Coping with overwhelming emotions 04:23 – Recognizing early warning signs of decline 05:33 – Building action plans around self-awareness 06:10 – Signs that things are getting worse and when to act 07:32 – Creating a detailed crisis plan 08:49 – Including medications, contacts, and trusted supporters 09:52 – How a WRAP plan keeps everyone on the same page 11:07 – Involving friends, family, and professionals in crisis planning 12:39 – Overcoming stigma and asking for help during crisis 13:32 – Post-crisis recovery and lessons learned 14:36 – Why mental health planning is “wellness insurance” 16:25 – Accessing WRAP resources and tools online 17:01 – The value of peer support in recovery 17:54 – Inviting listeners to share their own planning experiencesExplore 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, we explore the Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP)—a practical, step-by-step tool designed to help you maintain mental health, recognize early warning signs, and prepare for crises before they happen. Hosts Terry and Bridget are joined by Katrina Coppel, a certified peer specialist and WRAP facilitator, who explains how to create and personalize a mental health plan that works for you.The conversation highlights how daily wellness tools, crisis planning, and self-awareness strategies can make the difference between falling into crisis and staying safe. You’ll also hear real-life examples from the Giving Voice to Depression community about what keeps them grounded and well.Whether you live with depression, anxiety, or another mental health challenge—or you simply want to build resilience—this episode provides practical steps you can start today.WRAP Information: https://mentalhealthrecovery.com/WRAP PDF Worksheet: https://www.getselfhelp.co.uk/docs/WRAP.pdfPrimary Topics Covered:What a Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) is and how it helpsWhy writing down your daily wellness plan increases successIdentifying triggers and early warning signs before crisis hitsCreating a personalized wellness toolbox with simple, effective coping skillsThe role of hope, meaning, and values in sustaining mental healthCommunity voices: real strategies from people who manage depression dailyWhy WRAP works beyond mental illness—chronic pain, stress, and life challengesTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction: Suicide Prevention Month and the importance of prevention 01:15 – Desmond Tutu’s wisdom: upstream prevention vs. crisis response 02:04 – Why making a written plan matters for mental health 02:57 – Guest introduction: Katrina Coppel on WRAP and how it works 04:49 – WRAP as a customizable framework for self-care and recovery 06:59 – Daily wellness tools and building your personal “wellness toolbox” 08:06 – Community voices: coping strategies from listeners 10:08 – Writing reminders and keeping your plan visible 11:32 – The role of hope, values, and meaning in staying grounded 12:22 – Defining your “baseline self” when you’re well 13:22 – Why reminders of your well self matter during depression 14:45 – Creating a daily maintenance plan that’s realistic and achievable 16:35 – Habits that help but are easy to neglect (exercise, nature, water, etc.) 17:49 – The impact of uncertainty and why planning is more essential now 18:33 – A personal commitment: starting a WRAP plan today 19:27 – Looking ahead: triggers, early warning signs, and crisis planning 20:24 – Closing thoughts: Speak up, listen up, and keep planningExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Is there hope after a suicide attempt?In this powerful Suicide Prevention Month episode, you’ll hear from people who stood at the very edge of life — convinced they were a burden, that things would never get better, that suicide was their only escape. And yet, today, they’re alive to share their truth: life can change, recovery is possible, and hope is real.These lived-experience voices expose depression for the liar it is, challenge the stigma that keeps so many silent, and remind us that suicide doesn’t end pain — it ends possibility.You’ll also learn about the Columbia Protocol (C-SSRS), a suicide risk assessment tool endorsed by the CDC and WHO, with simple questions that can help save a life.If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to stand on the edge, or if you’re searching for reasons to keep going, this episode is a lifeline.Link to Columbia Protocol Questionnaire: https://cssrs.columbia.edu/the-columbia-scale-c-ssrs/cssrs-for-families-friends-and-neighbors/Primary Topics Covered:Why direct questions about suicide matterThe Columbia Protocol (C-SSRS) and how to use itMisconceptions and stigma around suicide and depressionStories of people who nearly died — and why they’re glad they survivedThe lies depression tells vs. the reality of recoveryHow faith, therapy, medication, and community play a role in healingMessages of hope from survivors: “It doesn’t have to be this way”Why speaking up, listening, and connection can save livesTimestamps:00:00 Intro — framing Suicide Prevention Month 01:10 Why direct language about suicide is essential 02:00 The Columbia Protocol (C-SSRS) explained 03:30 Voices from the edge: lived experiences of suicidal thinking 04:33 Misconceptions and stigma that keep people from seeking help 06:30 How depression lies: “you’re not enough” 08:13 The irrational logic of suicidal thoughts 09:47 Stories of attempts and realizations that life was still worth living 12:08 Medication, therapy, and healing beyond coping 13:26 Messages to past selves: “you are not a failure” 15:30 Why survivors are glad they’re alive — family, milestones, joy 17:39 Building strength by admitting weakness and seeking support 19:30 Closing reflections: hope is real, share this episode during Suicide Prevention MonthExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Suicide Prevention Awareness Month is a reminder that every story shared and every conversation held can help save a life. In this special compilation episode, we revisit some of the most powerful moments from our archives — stories of people who once believed suicide was their only option, and the hope, recovery, and support they found instead.You’ll hear from attempt survivors, mental health advocates, and crisis line experts about what suicidal thinking really feels like, how stigma and myths keep people silent, and why direct questions and compassionate listening can make all the difference.We also share practical suicide prevention tools, including how to recognize warning signs, what to say when someone is struggling, and how crisis hotlines and text lines truly save lives.This episode is a resource for anyone asking: “How can I help someone suicidal?” or “What can I do if I’m feeling hopeless?” You are not alone, and hope is real.Primary Topics Covered:Why every depression story is part of suicide preventionDebunking myths about suicide (not “selfish,” not “attention-seeking”)How to ask direct questions when someone may be suicidalRecognizing warning signs: hopelessness, burden, isolation, lethal meansCrisis hotlines: what happens when you call and why they workCrisis text line: why it’s especially helpful for young peopleThe value of safety plans and proactive support networksReal stories of attempt survivors who are grateful to be aliveHow loved ones can listen and support without judgmentTimestamps:00:00 – Intro: Why Suicide Prevention Month matters 01:13 – Why every depression story is suicide prevention 02:05 – Mark Hennick: Myths and misconceptions about suicide 04:20 – Asking the right questions: “Would you be doing us a favor by dying?” 05:07 – The Suicide Prevention Lifeline: How calling helps 06:08 – Dr. John Draper: Why crisis intervention works long after the call 07:56 – Corinne’s story: How a hotline call saved my life 09:49 – Crisis text line: How texting can be lifesaving for youth 10:48 – How safety plans prevent crises before they escalate 12:47 – Personalizing crisis plans for real-world situations 14:18 – Justin’s story: From rock bottom to hope and connection 16:14 – Why more people care about you than you think 17:16 – Closing: Speak up. Listen up. Prevention is possibleExplore 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, Bob shares his deeply personal story of surviving a suicide attempt and finding hope through therapy, connection, and support. At 64, he feels stronger than ever — but just five years earlier, depression convinced him he wasn’t enough.Through his candid story, Bob reveals how quickly suicidal thoughts can escalate, how a compassionate nurse changed the trajectory of his recovery, and how therapy and routines helped him reclaim his life. His message offers encouragement, validation, and hope to anyone living with depression or suicidal thoughts.Whether you are struggling yourself or supporting someone you love, this episode is a reminder that depression lies, recovery is possible, and connection saves lives.Primary Topics Covered:How depression fuels lies of worthlessness and being a burdenThe sudden onset of suicidal thoughts (sometimes within 15 minutes)The role of compassion and human connection in saving livesThe importance of therapy (CBT, DBT, and talk therapy) in recoveryBuilding resilience with routines and values-based livingPost-hospitalization risks and why awareness is criticalFinding hope, healing, and renewed purpose after a suicide attemptTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to the episode and Suicide Prevention Month 01:36 - Mental Health America data on depression and suicidality 02:20 - Meet Bob: his background and suicide attempt survival 03:45 - Why Bob chose to share his story now 04:04 - Depression, chronic pain, and the spiral of hopelessness 05:37 - Believing the lie of being a burden 06:58 - The sudden decision: 15 minutes from thought to attempt 07:12 - Waking up in the hospital after his attempt 08:00 - The compassion of a nurse who changed Bob’s perspective 09:57 - Realizing self-worth beyond success or achievement 11:43 - Shifting focus: prioritizing mental health and therapy 12:29 - The challenge of telling family about his attempt 13:58 - Therapy journey: CBT, DBT, and healing through talk therapy 15:31 - Living by values instead of external validation 16:01 - Catching dark thoughts early and reaching out for help 16:53 - The power of routines, structure, and self-care 17:29 - Caring for mind, body, and spirit in recovery 17:51 - Trauma reminders and the will to never return to that place 18:22 - Finding joy and authenticity at 64 19:29 - Reflections on survival, gratitude, and purpose 20:38 - The importance of awareness: suicide can escalate in minutes 21:56 - How one person can change a life — the power of support 22:53 - Building a safety net of community and connection 23:36 - Closing reflections on resilience, warning signs, 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/

For many teens and young adults, one of the hardest steps in seeking help is simply saying the words: “I think I’m depressed.” Fear of being dismissed, judged, or misunderstood keeps countless young people suffering in silence.In this episode, psychologist Dr. Anita Sanz offers practical advice for students who are afraid to open up about depression to their parents. You’ll learn how to describe symptoms without self-diagnosing, when to bring in a trusted ally like a teacher or family doctor, and why your mental health must come first — no matter how your parents react.We also speak directly to parents: how to listen with empathy, avoid minimizing your child’s pain, and respond in ways that support healing instead of shutting down conversation.This episode is for anyone asking: “How do I tell my parents I’m depressed?” — and for the parents who want to know how to respond with compassion.Primary Topics Covered:Why many teens and young adults fear telling parents about depressionPractical tips for starting difficult mental health conversationsHow to describe symptoms without self-diagnosingThe role of trusted allies: teachers, doctors, coaches, family friendsWhat to do if parents don’t understand or dismiss the concernsWhy self-care and seeking help must continue regardless of family reactionThe importance of school counselors and campus mental health resourcesAdvice for parents: listening, avoiding judgment, supporting treatmentTimestamps:00:00 – Intro: Why teens fear opening up about depression 01:22 – Listener’s letter: “I’m afraid to tell my parents I’m depressed” 02:48 – Fears of being ridiculed or told to “just deal with it” 03:37 – Dr. Anita Sanz: First steps in preparing for the conversation 04:25 – How to describe symptoms instead of self-diagnosing 05:56 – Enlisting an ally: teachers, doctors, family friends 07:26 – Finding the right time and place for difficult conversations 07:56 – Why you must still seek help even if parents dismiss it 08:31 – School counselors and campus resources for mental health 09:11 – Avoiding guilt and “shoulding on yourself” when depressed 10:25 – Depression lies: reminding yourself of your worth 11:15 – Direct advice to parents: listening without judgment 12:58 – Why depression is not a parenting failure 13:48 – Personal reflections on depression in young adulthood 14:39 – Final advice: starting small, practicing openness, finding safe support 15:52 – Closing: Speak up. Listen up. You are not alone.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/