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

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/

How do you know if your child’s irritability, tummy aches, or withdrawal from friends might actually be signs of depression in children? In this powerful conversation, mental health professional Susan Ringle joins us to share how depression often looks different in kids than adults—and why parents should trust their instincts when something feels “off.”You’ll learn how to recognize childhood depression symptoms, what next steps to take if you’re worried, and how to support both your child and yourself through the process.This episode is a must-listen for parents, caregivers, teachers, and anyone who loves a child struggling with emotions that go deeper than sadness.Link to Mental Health America self-screening tools: https://screening.mhanational.org/Primary Topics CoveredWhy depression looks different in children than in adultsCommon signs of depression in kids: irritability, tantrums, somatic complaints (tummy aches, headaches)How to distinguish between sadness and clinical depressionThe “COAL” framework for parents: Curiosity, Observation, Acceptance, Loving GuidanceThe role of sleep, appetite, and regression in detecting mental health strugglesHow COVID-19 and isolation have impacted kids’ mental healthWhen and how to seek professional help (pediatricians, school counselors, child therapists)Why parents also need support when raising a child with depressionBreaking stigma: why seeking help is a strength, not a weaknessResources for families, including screenings and child-focused therapyTimestamps:00:00 Intro and technical setup  02:39 Why childhood depression looks different than adult depression  03:55 Symptoms parents might overlook: irritability, tantrums, regression  05:10 Red flags: appetite changes, sleep problems, loss of interest in play  06:52 Why parents are the best experts on their kids’ behavior  08:26 The COAL approach: Curiosity, Observation, Acceptance, Loving Guidance  10:48 COVID-19’s impact on children’s emotional health  12:57 Balancing isolation with safe peer connection  15:18 Where to seek help: pediatricians, school counselors, child therapists  16:55 Why parents need their own support when caring for a depressed child  20:09 Stigma, guilt, and why depression isn’t anyone’s fault  22:32 Why screenings and early intervention matter  26:22 The risks of untreated childhood depression and accidental self-harm  29:30 Suicide prevention and children’s limited understanding of death  31:10 Depression’s impact on school performance and memory  33:15 Final thoughts and trusted resources for families  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/

What does depression really feel like?For John, it feels like an attack in his own voice — a relentless, negative inner monologue determined to erase his self-worth. In this deeply moving conversation, he shares what it’s like to grow up hiding depression, self-medicate with alcohol, avoid treatment for decades, and finally begin opening up about his struggles.John’s story offers one of the most visceral explanations of depression you’ll hear. His metaphors — from a toxic guest in your head to a spreadsheet of self-worth where positives are erased and negatives multiply — put words to what so many of us silently endure.If you’ve ever wondered what depression feels like or how stigma delays treatment, John’s honesty will help you feel less alone — and remind you that healing is possible.Primary Topics Covered:John’s first experiences with depression as a teenagerHiding pain while appearing “fine” to othersDecades of self-medicating with alcohol instead of seeking helpHow stigma kept him from reaching outAntidepressants as an imperfect but helpful toolThe metaphor of depression as “an attack in your own voice”The spreadsheet of self-worth: positives erased, negatives multiplyingThe importance of hearing others’ stories to feel less aloneHis message of hope: depression does not last foreverTimestamps:00:00 Terri explains the rebroadcast and importance of self-care 01:34 Announcement: partnership with Mental Health America Wisconsin 02:34 John shares why he reached out to tell his story 03:15 First depression in adolescence — hiding behind a brave face 05:07 Turning to alcohol as self-medication for decades 06:16 Stigma and the fear of asking for help 07:14 Antidepressants: benefits and frustrations 08:00 John describes what depression feels like — “an attack in my own voice” 09:38 The spreadsheet of self-worth metaphor 11:10 Why hearing others’ stories made him feel less alone 12:42 Conversation about commonalities in depression experiences 13:02 John’s message of hope: “this will end, there is light at the end” 14:37 Gratitude for his courage in sharing his first public story 15:45 Closing reflections and reminders to 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/

How do you deal with depression when your mind won’t stop racing?In this episode, Dr. Steven C. Hayes — founder of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) — shares practical tools for calming intrusive thoughts, reducing self-criticism, and finding psychological flexibility.Through humor, metaphors, and science-backed strategies, Dr. Hayes explains how naming your mind, playfully reframing negative thoughts, and practicing self-compassion can help stop the cycle of overthinking. He also describes why being of service to others works like an antidepressant, and how mindfulness gives us the power to pivot back into the present moment.If you’ve ever struggled with coping with depression and a racing mind, this episode offers hope, tools, and perspective from one of the most quoted psychologists in the world — and someone who’s lived it himself.Primary Topics Covered:What Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is and how it worksWhy naming your mind (“George”) can help calm intrusive thoughtsSimple exercises to diffuse negative self-talkHow to humanize your inner critic with humor and playUsing mindfulness to slow down racing thoughtsWhy being of service can act like a natural antidepressantReframing depression as an opportunity for connection and growthWhy honesty about mental health struggles increases empathy and connectionThe importance of self-compassion and seeing yourself as wholeTimestamps:00:00 Intro — Welcome and episode overview 01:00 Guest introduction: Dr. Steven C. Hayes, founder of ACT 02:00 What ACT therapy is and why it helps with depression 03:30 Learning psychological flexibility through mentors and self-kindness 04:30 When your brain becomes a dictator: intrusive thoughts and self-criticism 06:20 How being of service can act like an antidepressant 07:40 The “racing car” brain metaphor — and learning to put on the brakes 08:50 Naming your mind (Dr. Hayes calls his “George”) to create distance 10:20 Playful ways to diffuse negative thoughts: cartoons, singing, repetition 12:40 Reframing negative self-talk with compassion for your younger self 14:50 Why we should stop hiding our depression — and how openness builds connection 17:40 Depression as an opportunity: turning “lemons into lemonade” 19:20 Mindfulness as a pivot back into the present moment 21:00 Closing reflections and reminder: “Speak up if you’re struggling, listen up if someone else is.”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/

Too often, stigma and misunderstanding keep people living with bipolar disorder in silence and shame. In this episode, mental health advocate Michelle Yang shares her powerful journey from misdiagnosis and crisis to stability, advocacy, and thriving with bipolar disorder.Michelle’s story highlights how stigma—at school, at home, and in the workplace—nearly derailed her life, but also how she found strength through treatment, resilience, and community. Today, she’s breaking the cycle by speaking out, proving that people with bipolar disorder can and do live full, successful, and joyful lives.If you or someone you love lives with bipolar disorder, this episode will bring insight, encouragement, and a reminder that recovery is possible—and stigma does not define us.Link to Michelle's article: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/asian-american-mental-illness_n_5cacad09e4b02e7a705dae97Link to Michelle's Blog: http://www.livingwellhappily.com/Primary Topics Covered:How stigma impacts mental health diagnosis and recoveryMichelle Yang’s lived experience with bipolar disorderThe difference between wellness and external “success markers” like grades or jobsCultural barriers to recognizing and treating mental illnessWhat people most misunderstand about bipolar disorderWhy sharing positive stories of recovery is vital to breaking stigmaTimestamps:00:01 – Why real stories of recovery matter when you feel alone 00:29 – Michelle Yang’s early experiences with stigma and dismissal 02:28 – A high school moment overlooked as a cry for help 04:05 – “Good grades don’t equal good mental health” 05:07 – Depression spiraling into mania while abroad in college 07:09 – Family response and hospitalization after a psychotic episode 08:48 – Taking a leave of absence and returning stronger 09:21 – Building a career, family, and community while living with bipolar disorder 10:36 – Choosing advocacy over silence: ending the shame cycle 11:56 – “It doesn’t define me”: Michelle’s message of hope 13:07 – Common misconceptions about bipolar disorderExplore 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, we sit down with Michelle Yang, who courageously shares her journey of living with depression and bipolar disorder while growing up in an immigrant family. For over 20 years, Michelle kept her struggles a secret—battling shame, fear, and cultural stigma that prevented her from getting help.She describes the trauma of immigration, the pressure of being a high-achieving student, and the terrifying symptoms of untreated bipolar disorder. Michelle also opens up about how stigma in her family and community delayed her access to care, and why sharing her story now is an act of healing and advocacy.If you or someone you know is living with depression or bipolar disorder, Michelle’s story is a powerful reminder that you are not alone—and that finding your voice can break stigma and inspire others.Link to Michelle's Blog: http://www.livingwellhappily.com/Link to Michelle's article we referenced: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/asian-american-mental-illness_n_5cacad09e4b02e7a705dae97Primary Topics Covered:The hidden struggles of living with bipolar disorder and depression as a teen.The impact of immigration trauma and family pressures on mental health.How cultural stigma delayed Michelle’s access to treatment.The dangers of dismissing symptoms as “teen drama” or “cultural differences.”The power of naming your experiences and finding support.Timestamps:00:49 – Introduction to Michelle’s story 01:28 – Keeping depression and bipolar disorder secret for 20 years 02:38 – Immigration trauma and cultural challenges 04:03 – Childhood responsibilities and family pressures 05:31 – Early symptoms of bipolar disorder and mania 06:18 – The crushing shame of mental illness in adolescence 07:19 – How stigma and cultural misconceptions delayed help 09:13 – Michelle begs her parents for mental health support 10:15 – Family fear and stigma preventing treatment 11:24 – Reading from Michelle’s Huffington Post article 12:41 – A heartbreaking dismissal from a doctor 13:06 – Looking ahead to part two of Michelle’s storyExplore 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 COVID-19 pandemic has taken a devastating toll on frontline workers — not only physically, but emotionally and mentally. Nurses, doctors, chaplains, and caregivers have carried the burden of loss, isolation, and trauma, often while working without rest or adequate protection.In this episode, chaplain and mindfulness instructor Christy shares her firsthand experience supporting patients, families, and healthcare workers during the pandemic. From complicated grief and burnout to the early signs of depression, anxiety, and PTSD, Christy describes what it’s really like on the COVID-19 frontline.This powerful conversation explores how healthcare workers can cope with trauma, why self-care is not optional, and how compassion, solidarity, and connection are key to surviving — and healing from — this crisis.Link to article #1: https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2020/07/coronavirus-special-mental-health-disaster/613510/Link to article #2: https://time.com/5817435/covid-19-mental-health-coronavirus/Primary Topics Covered:The mental health toll of COVID-19 on frontline workersWhy nurses, doctors, and caregivers are at higher risk of PTSD and depressionHow chaplains and spiritual care providers support both patients and staffThe weight of grief: patients dying without family at their sideComplicated emotions for healthcare workers (fear, gratitude, overwhelm)The importance of self-care, peer support, and professional mental health carePost-traumatic stress vs. post-traumatic growth in healthcare settingsWhy compassion, solidarity, and nurturing self-talk matter now more than everTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction: The mental health impact of COVID-19 01:17 – Comparing COVID-19 with the SARS outbreak and its psychiatric aftermath 02:24 – Focus on healthcare workers: guest chaplain Christy’s perspective 03:36 – Emotional overwhelm and the weight of social injustice 04:46 – Shifting from supporting patients to supporting staff as well 05:58 – Isolation, mortality, and grief in hospitals 07:15 – Early signs of PTSD in frontline workers — even caregivers themselves 08:04 – Potential for both post-traumatic stress and post-traumatic growth 09:37 – Loss of connection and the difficulty of grieving without touch 12:00 – Nurses and doctors share their “complicated” feelings about the pandemic 13:54 – What frontline workers can do to reduce mental health risks 14:48 – The essential role of self-care and nurturing self-talk 15:30 – A message of hope: courage, compassion, and light in the darkness 16:37 – How we can continue to support frontline workers after the crisis 18:20 – Closing reflections: tending to ourselves while caring for othersExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/