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

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/

For many, Christmas is not the most wonderful time of the year. If you’re grieving, battling depression, or simply struggling to make it through the holidays, this episode is for you.Written and read by John Pavlovitz, this heartfelt message speaks directly to those carrying heavy burdens during a season that often amplifies loneliness and loss. Whether you’re mourning a loved one, facing addiction, or simply trying to survive another day, these words remind you of two vital truths: you are not alone—and this is not the end of your story.This episode is a gift of solidarity and hope for anyone who feels unseen in the glow of holiday lights.🎙️ Primary Topics CoveredWhy holidays can worsen depression, grief, and lonelinessMessages for those struggling with addiction, self-hatred, or despairThe unseen reality behind holiday celebrationsThe importance of solidarity: you are not the only one hurtingHope that today’s pain does not define tomorrowA compassionate reminder that the story isn’t overHow Giving Voice to Depression offers support year-round⏱️ Timestamps00:00 - Welcome to this special holiday message 00:40 - Introduction to John Pavlovitz’s reflection 01:15 - For those grieving or missing loved ones this Christmas 02:10 - For those living with depression or mental illness 02:55 - For those struggling with addiction or self-hatred 03:40 - For those feeling alone or isolated during the holidays 04:20 - You are not alone in this struggle 04:50 - This pain is not permanent—your story continues 05:15 - Closing words of encouragement 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/

For most of his life, Dan lived with depression in silence — hiding his pain from friends, family, and even himself. It wasn’t until a mental health crisis and hospitalization that he realized secrecy was costing him more than depression itself.In this moving conversation, Dan shares his first public story of living with depression, suicidal thoughts, and shame — and how finally talking about it has lifted some of the weight. His honesty is a gift of connection, gratitude, and hope to anyone struggling in silence.If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to be living with depression while pretending everything is fine, Dan’s courage to stop hiding will resonate deeply.Primary Topics Covered:Why depression stigma keeps people silent, even with friendsDan’s story of living with depression since childhoodThe toll of hiding pain: exhaustion, isolation, and shameHow grief, family stress, and work pressures worsened his illnessHospitalization as a turning point in survival and recoveryThe role of family support during suicidal ideationWhy speaking up reduces shame and builds connectionIntergenerational conversations: learning openness from his sonDepression as an illness — not a personal failureThe healing power of gratitude and shared storiesTimestamps:00:00 Welcome and intro 00:35 Holiday reflections and the “gifts” of connection, gratitude, and hope 01:26 Introducing Dan: first-time storyteller in recovery 02:42 Why men often hide depression, even from close friends 04:20 Dan’s personal crisis: grief, back pain, and family stress 05:01 Suicidal thoughts and hospitalization as a turning point 06:16 Discovering the importance of speaking up 07:53 The emotional drain of hiding depression 09:28 Why talking takes away shame and stigma 10:40 Depression impacts loved ones too — guilt and family conversations 11:45 Open discussions with his son about depression 12:36 Fighting stigma: “depression doesn’t care who you are” 13:22 The voice of depression vs. the voice of self 14:15 Learning to describe depression so others can understand 15:25 Connection and community as gifts for healing 16:32 Closing reflections: courage, hope, 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/

2020 was a year unlike any other. The pandemic, political division, racial injustice, and social isolation created what mental health professionals call a collective trauma — leaving many of us struggling with depression, anxiety, and loneliness.In this year-in-review episode, psychologist Dr. R. Kwaku-Smith joins Giving Voice to Depression to reflect on the mental health challenges of 2020 and share tools for moving forward. He discusses why it’s okay not to be okay, how to manage emotional exhaustion, and why connection, love, and daily intentional practices are essential for recovery.If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, depleted, or hopeless after a year of nonstop stress, this conversation will remind you that you are not alone — and that healing is possible.Primary Topics Covered:How the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted routines and worsened depressionThe role of collective trauma in 2020 (pandemic, racism, political division)Why loss and isolation deepened the mental health crisisThe “syndemic”: overlapping crises that amplified stress and hopelessnessCoping strategies: diet, exercise, sleep, journaling, meditation, self-reflectionWhy it’s okay not to be okay — but dangerous to stay stuck thereThe healing role of love, community, and accountability partnersHow to forgive yourself and start again after setbacksBuilding resilience and hope for the futureTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction: reviewing 2020 through a mental health lens 01:16 – Pandemic, division, and racial injustice as defining challenges 02:10 – Early hopes of 2020 vs. shocking global realities 03:31 – How the pandemic disrupted routines and stability 04:38 – The concept of collective trauma 06:01 – Emotional exhaustion, alcohol use, and rising domestic violence 07:34 – How depression deepened during overlapping crises 08:05 – Why admitting “I’m not okay” is the first step 08:15 – Coping basics: diet, exercise, sleep, and managing what we consume mentally 09:11 – Finding support: clinicians, accountability partners, friends, family 10:23 – Facing hard truths and building willpower for change 11:27 – Love as the greatest medicine for depression 12:20 – Why it’s normal to feel depressed in extraordinary times 13:19 – Dr. Smith’s daily practices: journaling, morning meditation, nightly reflection 14:37 – Forgiveness, fresh starts, and self-compassion 15:15 – Breathing practices and stoking embers of hope 16:29 – Looking forward to a healthier new yearExplore 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 look like to live through bipolar disorder, depression, addiction, and suicidal thoughts—and still find hope?In this episode, comedian and rapper Zane Thomas shares his raw and unfiltered story of mental illness and recovery. From battling substance abuse to learning how to “talk back” to depression, Zane uses humor and honesty to break stigma and show what healing really looks like.He also reveals why asking someone “What are you excited for?” can be a more powerful lifeline than “Are you okay?”—and how small shifts in language can open the door to meaningful conversations about mental health.This is a powerful reminder that recovery is possible, that depression’s lies are not the truth, and that laughter can be a tool for survival.Primary Topics Covered:Zane’s lived experience with bipolar disorder, depression, and addictionHow depression lies and repeats the same script to everyoneUsing humor as a tool for healing and connectionThe dangers of alcohol and substance abuse with bipolar disorderThe turning point: losing a friend and spiraling further into addictionHow self-talk and “talking back” to dark thoughts became a coping toolWhy “What are you excited for?” is a life-saving questionThe role of music, comedy, and community in recoveryTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Zane Thomas and his story 02:09 - Viral Instagram post on suicidal thoughts 04:23 - Talking back to depression like a bully 06:49 - Realizing depression tells everyone the same lies 07:57 - Humor as a coping strategy for mental health 09:05 - When depression comes from “nowhere” 10:37 - The power of the word “yet” in recovery 11:42 - Music, comedy, and creativity shaped by illness 12:35 - Substance abuse as a coping mechanism 13:31 - Losing a friend and spiraling deeper into addiction 14:29 - The toxic relationship between alcohol and bipolar disorder 15:28 - Gambling with alcohol and emotions 16:54 - Offering to listen before it’s too late 17:01 - Asking “What are you excited for?” as a mental health tool 18:00 - Breaking stigma by keeping conversations realExplore 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, Ambrose, a coach specializing in movement, nutrition, and mindfulness, shares how breathwork can be a powerful tool for managing anxiety, depression, and stress. From understanding the biological connection between breathing and emotional regulation, to learning simple, actionable techniques like “straw breath,” listeners will walk away with practical tools they can use anytime.We explore how mindful breathing supports emotional resilience, why self-compassion is essential when practicing, and how breath connects us back to balance during challenging times.Link to stress-free schools program: https://skyschools.org/Primary Topics CoveredWhy breathing practices are powerful for mental healthThe link between movement, nutrition, and emotional wellbeingHow isolation affects mood and biology (hormones like serotonin & oxytocin)The importance of self-compassion in mental health managementMisconceptions about meditation and mindfulnessSKY (Sudarshan Kriya Yoga) and other breath techniquesStep-by-step guide to practicing Straw BreathHow to integrate daily breathing practices into your routineTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction: Why self-care tools matter more than ever 02:15 – Ambrose’s background in coaching body, mind, and nutrition 03:50 – How movement, nutrition, and connection affect mental health 05:30 – Ambrose’s lived experiences with depression and low mood 07:20 – Why breathwork and mindfulness require practice 09:30 – Misconceptions about meditation and how to reframe them 11:30 – Introduction to SKY (Sudarshan Kriya Yoga) breathing practice 13:30 – Guided “Straw Breath” practice for calming anxiety 16:30 – Reflections on practice, self-compassion, and daily application 18:00 – Resources, links, and encouragement to keep practicingExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

The holiday season can be one of the hardest times of year for those living with depression and anxiety. Expectations of joy and celebration often clash with grief, loneliness, and stress—especially in the aftermath of the pandemic.In this episode, psychologist Dr. Maggie Mulqueen offers compassionate insights and actionable strategies for coping with holiday depression. She discusses the importance of releasing unrealistic expectations, embracing a both/and mindset (grief and gratitude can coexist), and finding purpose in small, meaningful actions.If you’re feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or weighed down this holiday season, this conversation is a reminder: you are not alone, and there are real ways to protect your mental health while honoring your truth.Link to referenced article: https://www.drmaggiemulqueen.com/publicationsPrimary Topics Covered:Why depression and anxiety intensify during the holidaysThe impact of seasonal affective disorder and lingering pandemic stressThree groups of people struggling differently at ChristmasThe emotional weight of grief and “empty seats at the table”How to embrace a both/and mindset during difficult timesThe harm of toxic positivity and why minimizing doesn’t helpSmall acts of kindness and finding purpose to ease depressionThe role of uncertainty in worsening mental health strugglesA hopeful holiday reflection: In the Time of Pandemic by Kitty O’MearaTimestamps:00:00 - Welcome and introduction to holiday struggles 01:00 - Why depression and anxiety worsen during the holidays 01:22 - Dr. Maggie Mulqueen shares pandemic and holiday insights 02:14 - Why therapists are busiest November through March 02:53 - Cancelled gatherings and emotional fallout 03:11 - Three groups most impacted by holiday depression 04:57 - Families “stuck” together and added stress 05:56 - The weight of grief and missing loved ones 06:31 - No single “right” way to celebrate holidays 07:26 - Embracing both/and thinking for resilience 08:24 - Depression and the pressure to “be happy” 09:30 - Why purpose helps protect mental health 10:47 - Pandemic uncertainty and collective anxiety 12:13 - The harm of toxic positivity and not being heard 13:52 - Shame, silence, and holiday expectations 14:39 - Final takeaway: compassion and complexity 15:55 - Reading of In the Time of Pandemic by Kitty O’Meara 17:23 - Gratitude, hope, and the “great reset” 18:05 - Closing reflections and next week’s previewExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/