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

How can civilians better support veterans living with PTSD, depression, and suicidal thoughts?In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, psychiatrist and veteran Dr. Mike McBride shares insights on the unique challenges veterans face after service — from the military culture of hiding pain to the stigma that prevents many from seeking help.Dr. McBride explains how civilians can bridge the cultural gap and support veterans through listening, appreciation, and practical community support. He also discusses how families can recognize when a loved one is struggling, how to talk about safe firearm storage, and why suicide prevention requires honest conversations.If you’ve ever wondered what you can do to truly support the veterans in your life, this episode offers compassionate, actionable guidance.Link to Veterans Crisis Line: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/Link to Military Benefits Explainer: https://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits/be-there-for-veterans.htmlPrimary Topics Covered:Why veterans often struggle to ask for mental health helpThe cultural disconnect between military and civilian lifeThree ways civilians can support veterans: listen, appreciate, and supportHow neighbors and communities can show awareness (e.g., fireworks and PTSD)The role of families in recognizing signs of depression or PTSDSafe firearm storage as suicide preventionHow to have difficult conversations without triggering defensivenessWhy talking about service builds trust and connectionTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction to the episode and Veterans Day reflection 01:03 – Dr. Mike McBride on veterans’ unique culture and mental health challenges 02:19 – Why veterans feel disconnected from civilian life 03:06 – Military training: mission first, self-care last 04:03 – First step: civilians should ask veterans about their service 05:24 – The healing power of telling one’s story 06:02 – Second step: showing appreciation for service and sacrifice 06:49 – Dr. McBride’s own sacrifices for deployments 07:29 – Third step: supporting veterans in school, work, and community life 08:26 – Fireworks, PTSD, and a community’s compassionate response 09:49 – Families reaching out when veterans resist help 10:57 – Suicide risk in veterans: statistics and prevention efforts 11:43 – Firearm culture, safe storage, and crisis prevention 12:48 – How to talk about guns and suicide safely with veterans 14:23 – Dr. McBride’s direct message to veterans: lead with your strengths 15:22 – Closing reflections: the power of talking openly about trauma 16:28 – Crisis line resources for veterans and familiesExplore 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 Veterans Day conversation, psychiatrist and veteran Dr. Mike McBride joins the podcast to discuss the unique mental health challenges facing those who served. Drawing from his experience in the Army and Navy as well as his work at the Milwaukee V.A., Dr. McBride explains why PTSD, depression, and suicide risk are critical issues for veterans — and how both medical professionals and civilians can better support them.He shares how loss and isolation, worsened by the pandemic, compound mental health struggles, and outlines practical tools for veterans to stay connected, resilient, and hopeful. From the Veterans Creed to safe gun storage conversations, this episode offers guidance not only for veterans themselves but also for families, friends, and communities who want to help.Link to Veteran's Crisis Linehttps://www.veteranscrisisline.netHow to Be There for Veterans: https://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits/be-there-for-veterans.htmlServing Together Project: https://servingtogetherproject.org/MHA RR House: https://www.facebook.com/RRHouseMHA/Primary Topics Covered:Veterans’ unique mental health challenges (PTSD, depression, trauma)The role of loss and isolation in worsening depressionHow the Veterans Creed can provide grounding and purposeSuicide prevention: the importance of connection and safe gun storageCivilian support: asking about service, showing appreciation, and creating safe communitiesBuilding resilience and post-traumatic growth after serviceWhy veterans often avoid seeking help — and how families can bridge the gapTimestamps:00:11:00 – Dr. McBride introduces himself and his dual role as psychiatrist and veteran00:16:40 – His journey from child psychiatry to serving in the Army and Navy after 9/1100:18:35 – Reflections on deployments, trauma, and the lasting toll of war00:22:47 – Why military culture requires people who understand veterans’ experiences00:25:15 – COVID-19, isolation, and the rise in depression among veterans00:27:18 – Exploring the link between loss and depression00:30:20 – The Veterans Creed as a tool for daily resilience00:33:44 – Importance of connection and suicide prevention outreach00:36:46 – How civilians can better understand and support veterans00:39:42 – Why veterans struggle to ask for help — and how families can step in00:44:33 – Teaching medical students to ask difficult questions about depression, suicide, and firearm safety00:47:07 – The challenge of gun safety in veteran suicide prevention00:48:59 – Final message: veterans as leaders in healing divided communitiesExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Millions of children grow up with a parent struggling with depression or another mental illness. This episode explores the hidden impact parental mental illness can have on kids, including the silence, guilt, and self-blame they often carry. Guest Michelle Dickinson shares her story of growing up with a mother with bipolar disorder and how it shaped her childhood and adulthood.Clinical psychologist Dr. Anita Sanz offers expert insights into what children need to know, how parents can protect their kids even while struggling, and practical, low-energy strategies that foster love and connection at home.This episode is for anyone navigating the challenges of mental illness in families—whether you are a parent, child, or loved one.Link to Michelle Dickinson's site: https://www.michelleedickinson.com/Link to Michelle Dickinson's article: https://www.michelleedickinson.com/protecting-our-happy/Link to Michelle Dickinson's book:https://breakingintomylife.com/Primary Topics Covered:Michelle Dickinson’s experience growing up with a parent with bipolar disorderHow children often internalize a parent’s mental illness as their faultThe “chameleon effect” of kids adapting to unpredictable moodsWhat parents can do to protect and support their children while managing depressionThe importance of honesty and low-barrier parenting strategiesHow children can begin separating their parent from the illnessThe role of therapy, support networks, and modeling careTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to the episode and topic 01:00 - How a son realized his father’s depression through a friend’s perspective 02:00 - Revisiting an interview with Michelle Dickinson about growing up with a bipolar parent 03:20 - Early signs of her mother’s mental illness 04:20 - Living through cycles of mania and deep depression 05:10 - Hospitalizations and limited explanations as a child 06:40 - Internalizing blame for a parent’s illness 07:15 - Adapting as a “chameleon” to survive at home 08:00 - The fear and unpredictability of coming home 09:00 - The long-term impact on voice, needs, and self-worth 10:00 - What kids need to hear: “It’s not your fault” 11:00 - Learning that her mother was not her disease 12:20 - Forgiveness and understanding after her mother’s death 13:20 - How Michelle’s own depression deepened her empathy 14:30 - Advice for kids and partners of people with depression 16:10 - The importance of treatment and medication 18:00 - Expert insights from Dr. Anita Sands on parenting with depression 19:00 - Why honesty and consistency matter for children 21:00 - How kids often misinterpret a parent’s symptoms as rejection 23:00 - Practical low-energy strategies for parents to connect with kids 24:30 - Terri shares her own story of a Thanksgiving spent in bed 25:20 - Final reflections and resources for familiesExplore 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 bonus episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Dr. Barbara Moser—trained in Mindful Self-Compassion and a passionate mental health advocate—guides listeners through a short self-compassion break. This accessible meditation draws from Kristin Neff’s foundational work and integrates the three pillars of self-compassion: mindfulness, common humanity, and self-kindness.The practice is designed to be used in moments of stress, anxiety, or emotional struggle, offering a gentle and effective tool you can return to anytime.Listeners are reminded that self-compassion is not about ignoring difficulties but about meeting them with kindness, perspective, and care. Whether you’re new to mindfulness or looking for a reliable practice to add to your mental health toolkit, this guided exercise provides a grounding, healing pause.Primary Topics CoveredIntroduction to self-compassion as a mental health toolThe three pillars of self-compassion (mindfulness, common humanity, self-kindness)Step-by-step guided self-compassion breakPractical ways to adapt the practice for daily stress and anxietyThe importance of gentle, non-judgmental self-supportTimestamps00:00 - Introduction to mindfulness and self-compassion 00:48 - Starting the guided self-compassion practice 01:15 - Choosing a manageable situation for practice 02:10 - Recognizing mindfulness: naming the difficulty 03:05 - Common humanity: knowing you’re not alone 04:00 - Self-kindness: soothing touch and kind words 06:10 - Offering yourself supportive phrases 07:20 - Applying the practice in daily life 08:35 - Closing thoughts and community supportExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

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/