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

How do you deal with depression and anxiety when returning to work after working from home?For many, going back to the workplace after months of shutdowns has stirred more than routine — it’s brought fear, exhaustion, and deep uncertainty. In this conversation, therapist Sa'Aire Salton shares what she sees in her clients: people who grew comfortable in their depression during isolation now struggling to readjust, and how anxiety about safety and change amplifies those struggles.We discuss why depression can feel “normal” after long periods of isolation, how to spot the warning signs when someone is slipping deeper, and what both peers and employers can do to help support mental health during this transition.If you’ve wondered how to balance living with depression, anxiety, and the pressure of returning to work, this episode offers compassion, tools, and hope.Link to article on employee health: https://www.apa.org/topics/covid-19/employee-mental-healthLink to article on depression symptoms: https://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/detecting-depression#1Primary Topics Covered:Why the return to work feels overwhelming for many with depression and anxietyHow isolation made depression feel “normal” for some peopleThe double impact of anxiety + depression when facing workplace changeStigma, fear, and why asking for help is still so hardSigns to look for in yourself or others that depression is worseningSimple ways to reach out and check on someone without judgmentHow friends, family, and coworkers can provide supportThe role of employers in creating a mentally healthy return-to-work cultureWhy peer connection and honesty reduce stigma and increase healingTimestamps:00:00 Intro — Setting the stage: strange and uncertain times 01:12 The challenge of reopening and uncertainty around safety 02:08 APA report: mental health risks in returning to work 03:00 Guest introduction: Sa'Aire Salton, therapist and consultant 03:45 How isolation made depression feel “comfortable” for many 05:18 Anxiety and fear about COVID-19 amplifying depression 06:40 Complacency and why it’s so hard to seek treatment 08:00 The role of friends, family, and coworkers in helping people return 09:42 Signs and symptoms of depression to look for in ourselves and others 10:23 How to reach out: compassionate, non-judgmental conversations 12:09 Gentle invitations: walks, calls, shared activities to reconnect 12:46 The role of employers in supporting emotional health at work 14:17 Reducing stigma by normalizing post-pandemic struggles 15:44 Why everyone deserves mental health support after trauma 16:46 The importance of reaching in when someone can’t reach out 18:00 Closing reflections: kindness, compassion, and connectionExplore 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 isn’t always about sadness — sometimes it shows up in the everyday tasks that suddenly feel impossible. Showering, folding laundry, doing dishes, or even picking up medication can feel overwhelming, leaving many people trapped in guilt, shame, and self-blame.In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, guest Molly Bacchus introduces the idea of the “impossible task,” a phrase that resonated with thousands online. She shares how putting a name to this struggle helps people realize they’re not lazy or broken — they’re experiencing a symptom of depression.Bridget, Terry, and Molly discuss how loved ones can better support someone facing these challenges, why compassion matters, and how even small acts of help can make daily life more manageable.Primary Topics CoveredWhat “the impossible task” means for people with depressionWhy everyday chores can suddenly feel insurmountableThe emotional weight of guilt and shame in depressionExamples of impossible tasks: dishes, laundry, showering, medicationWhy asking for help is a survival tool, not a weaknessThe role of friends in making overwhelming tasks doableMolly’s viral Twitter thread that gave this symptom a nameThe importance of normalizing and validating these experiencesWhy impossible tasks are symptoms of depression — not character flawsTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction  01:00 – The concept of “the impossible task”  01:35 – Small responsibilities that feel overwhelming  02:32 – How Molly’s tweets connected with thousands  03:18 – Defining “the impossible task” in daily life  04:18 – Real examples: laundry, dishes, showering  05:28 – Why outsiders can’t understand the hidden struggle  06:13 – The guilt and shame depression piles on  07:36 – Depression’s blindness to daily surroundings  08:54 – Emotional triage: surviving vs. functioning  09:41 – Even picking up antidepressants feels impossible  10:42 – The power of friends to lighten the load  11:43 – Remembering: “This won’t last forever”  12:15 – Depression’s lie that this is your new normal  12:42 – Helping others with their impossible tasks  13:40 – Why helping someone else can also help you  14:44 – Asking for help doesn’t make you a burden  15:37 – Closing thoughts and invitation to community  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/

Could COVID-19 finally change the way we see mental illness?In this timely conversation, psychiatrist Dr. Jessica Gold explores how the pandemic reshaped our understanding of depression, anxiety, and mental health overall. For the first time, many people experienced what it’s like to struggle with concentration, low energy, and overwhelming worry — symptoms that millions live with daily.We discuss whether this shared experience could finally reduce the stigma of mental illness, encourage earlier intervention, and push for systemic changes in the way care is provided and valued.If you’ve ever wondered how COVID changed mental health awareness — and whether it could help us build a more compassionate and supportive culture — this episode offers both hope and challenge.Links to articles:https://time.com/5835960/coronavirus-mental-illness-stigma/http://www.mhawisconsin.org/depressivedisorders.aspxhttp://www.mhawisconsin.org/anxiety_disorders.aspxhttps://mhanational.org/covid19Primary Topics Covered:Why predictions of a post-pandemic “mental health crisis” need contextHow COVID-19 normalized anxiety and depression for millionsThe role of early intervention and the “Before Stage Four” approachWhy mental health is inseparable from physical healthStigma reduction: how shared struggle can lead to empathySystemic challenges: access, affordability, and insurance parityThe role of racism and inequality in mental health outcomesWhy employers, schools, and healthcare must prioritize mental health post-pandemicThe opportunity COVID presents to transform stigma into awarenessTimestamps:00:00 Welcome to Season 14 of Giving Voice to Depression 01:12 How the pandemic disrupted mental health — and revealed new challenges 02:18 Dr. Jessica Gold on COVID, stigma, and mental illness 03:38 Predictions of post-pandemic mental health crises — what’s real and what’s not 05:00 Anxiety, depression, and the importance of early intervention 06:19 “Before Stage Four” — why prevention matters in mental health 07:21 How COVID blurred the lines between mental and physical health 08:37 Pandemic as a stigma-buster: empathy through shared struggle 09:54 The role of employers and leaders in normalizing mental health needs 11:15 Racism, inequity, and systemic failures exposed by COVID 12:26 Could this moment actually transform mental health care? 14:00 The opportunity to break down stigma and myths about depression 15:23 Practical next steps: early screening, therapy, accessible care 16:30 Closing reflections: hope for systemic change in mental healthExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Work can feel overwhelming when depression or anxiety makes even simple tasks difficult. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, writer Sarah Fielding, author of Nine Ways to Motivate Yourself to Work When You’re Struggling Mentally (Healthline), shares practical strategies for staying motivated and managing mental health challenges in the workplace.From celebrating small wins to using music and short breaks as tools for focus, these approaches are designed to support—not pressure—you. This conversation reminds us that motivation isn’t about forcing productivity; it’s about creating realistic, compassionate habits that keep us moving forward, even on the hardest days.Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, or burnout, these insights can help you find balance, protect your mental health, and rediscover purpose at work.Primary Topics CoveredWhy depression and anxiety impact workplace performanceHow absenteeism and presenteeism cost employees and organizationsPractical ways to review progress and build momentumThe importance of short breaks for resetting energyUsing music playlists as a focus and motivation toolFood, caffeine, and clothing as small but powerful mindset shiftsAccepting that tough days are part of the journey—and giving yourself graceTimestamps00:00 - Introduction: Work struggles with depression and anxiety 01:14 - The hidden costs of absenteeism and presenteeism 03:16 - Reviewing progress to boost confidence and motivation 04:56 - Taking five minutes to reset your energy 06:51 - The power of playlists for focus and mood 08:05 - Food and caffeine as tools for mental energy 09:05 - How clothing choices impact mindset at work 10:28 - Practicing self-compassion on hard days 11:29 - Looking ahead: future mental health topics 12:28 - Recognized as a top depression podcast 13:23 - Closing message: 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/

Finding motivation while struggling with depression can feel impossible. In this episode, writer Sarah Fielding shares practical, compassionate strategies for tackling everyday responsibilities when mental health makes even the smallest tasks feel overwhelming. From starting small to building structure, using lists, and checking in with yourself honestly, this conversation offers gentle yet effective tools for anyone battling low motivation during depression.Whether you’re dealing with burnout, mental fatigue, or a depressive episode, these tips can help you approach your day with more self-compassion while still making progress.Primary Topics Covered:Why starting tasks feels overwhelming with depressionThe role of planning and daily structure in reducing stressHow to use lists to make responsibilities more manageableBreaking down big tasks into small, achievable stepsSelf-awareness and checking in with your mental state dailyThe difference between being “busy” vs. being “productive”Employer perspective: balancing compassion and productivityThe importance of acknowledging ebb and flow in motivationTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to the episode and theme of motivation 01:00 - Depression vs. laziness: why tasks feel impossible 02:01 - Guest introduction: Sarah Fielding, Healthline writer 02:33 - Why starting is the hardest step 03:28 - The value of daily planning and structure 05:09 - How lists reduce overwhelm and encourage productivity 05:59 - Breaking big tasks into small, doable steps 06:42 - Using flexibility and self-awareness in work schedules 07:37 - Small changes: food, water, and environment resets 08:09 - Checking in with yourself and acknowledging burnout 09:24 - Employer perspective: productivity vs. mental health 11:05 - Everyone has off-days — it’s part of being human 12:26 - “Busy” vs. “productive”: knowing the difference 13:21 - The rocks and jar metaphor for prioritizing tasks 14:11 - Why small wins and momentum matter 15:08 - Key reminders: what works today may not work tomorrow 15:27 - Closing thoughts and social media connectionExplore 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 isn’t a sign of weakness—it often strikes the strongest among us. Psychiatrist Dr. Tim Cantopher, author of Depressive Illness: The Curse of the Strong, explains why responsible, reliable, and caring people are often most vulnerable to depression.In this conversation, we explore how perfectionism, self-neglect, and relentless responsibility fuel burnout and breakdown. Dr. Cantopher reframes depression as the body’s way of forcing rest and repair—a protective “fuse” blowing when demands exceed capacity.If you’ve ever blamed yourself for being “too weak,” this episode offers a powerful reframe: your strength, empathy, and diligence may be exactly what made you vulnerable. Learning to balance self-care with caring for others is key to recovery and resilience.Primary Topics Covered:Why depression often affects the strongest, most dependable peopleTraits that increase vulnerability: perfectionism, responsibility, empathyThe “curse of the strong” model of depressionHow ignoring personal needs can lead to breakdownBiological explanation: stress and the “blown fuse” analogySteps to reduce relapse risk and maintain balanceThe dangers of self-criticism and low self-worthWhy depression must be treated like any serious physical illnessTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction to the episode and reflections from the GVTD community 01:36 – Dr. Tim Cantopher on why depression targets the strongest people 03:11 – Traits linked to vulnerability: perfectionism, responsibility, empathy 04:08 – The “curse of the strong” and its impact on mental health 05:06 – Depression as strength, not weakness 06:14 – Why people who care for others often neglect themselves 07:32 – Biological model of depression: the “blown fuse” analogy 08:18 – Key steps to lower the risk of relapse 09:07 – Low self-esteem and constant self-criticism 10:15 – Accepting depression as a real illness, not a moral failing 11:29 – Recovery as a gradual process, like healing a fracture 12:43 – Building resilience and protecting long-term mental health 13:56 – Bridget and Terry’s reflections on applying Dr. Cantopher’s insights 15:22 – Closing thoughts and encouragement for listenersExplore 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 cope with depression and anxiety during a global pandemic?Season 13 of Giving Voice to Depression was recorded in the middle of COVID-19 — a time when mental health challenges were amplified by uncertainty, isolation, and fear. In this season review, Bridget and Terry revisit the most impactful guest stories and expert insights, including:Free online mental health screeningsFirsthand accounts of living with COVID while managing anxietyTherapist advice for navigating constant change and uncertaintyPractical tools to rewire your brain during stressThe role of mindfulness and self-compassion in healingWhy we’re all more connected than we think in our strugglesThis episode serves as both a recap and a mental health toolkit for anyone still navigating depression, anxiety, or the long-term effects of pandemic stress.Primary Topics Covered:Why COVID-19 amplified depression and anxiety for so manyTools for self-monitoring and online screeningThe role of uncertainty in worsening mental healthTherapist tips for lowering anxiety during unpredictable timesThe importance of connection, even while socially distancedStories of resilience from individuals and families who lived through COVIDWhy mindfulness and self-compassion are essential during crisesMental health lessons that apply beyond the pandemicTimestamps:00:00 Welcome & Season 13 context — mental health in a pandemic 01:20 Episode 136 recap: Free online screening tools with Paul Gianfrido 03:35 Episode 137 recap: Living with COVID as a family and lessons learned 06:04 Episode 138 recap: Therapist advice for coping with pandemic anxiety 07:48 Episode 139 recap: Deepening connections and asking “How are you?” for real 09:32 Episode 140 recap: Rewiring your brain for stress relief with Dr. Greenberg 11:18 Episode 141 recap: Hobbs on the impossibility of answering “How are you?” 12:40 Episode 142 recap: COVID cohabitating and social support experiments 13:53 Episode 143 recap: Mindfulness and self-compassion practices 15:24 Episode 144 recap: Guided mindfulness practice for grounding and connection 16:44 Hosts reflect on lessons learned and ongoing struggles 17:55 Invitation to join the Giving Voice to Depression communityExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

When depression convinces us we’re alone and disconnected, the practices of mindfulness and self-compassion remind us of our shared humanity and inner strength.In this episode, Dr. Barbara Moser returns to guide us through a grounding practice that helps us reconnect—with ourselves, with others, and with the world around us. She explores the three pillars of self-compassion (mindfulness, common humanity, and self-kindness) and demonstrates how small, intentional practices can bring comfort in times of struggle.Whether you’re feeling weighed down by depression, loneliness, or uncertainty, this conversation and practice will give you tools to stay centered, grounded, and more compassionate toward yourself.Information on Dr. Kristin Neff and her Self-Compassion program: https://self-compassion.orgPrimary Topics Covered:What mindfulness really means in the context of depressionThe three components of self-compassion (Dr. Kristin Neff’s framework)Using grounding practices to feel more connected during times of isolationThe power of touch, kind self-talk, and visualization for mental healthHow community and shared humanity reduce stigma and lonelinessTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction and context for today’s episode 01:07 – Dr. Barbara Moser on mindfulness and self-compassion 02:13 – The three pillars of self-compassion explained 03:43 – Common humanity: why you are not alone in your struggles 04:22 – Self-kindness practices and soothing touch 06:22 – Guided grounding and connection exercise begins 09:36 – Visualization: roots, trees, and interconnectedness 20:49 – Reflections on shared humanity and resilience 21:50 – The importance of community and mutual support 23:38 – Closing thoughts and invitation to the GVTD communityExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Dr. Barbara Moser—retired physician and suicide prevention advocate—joins us to explore two powerful, evidence-based practices that anyone can use daily: mindfulness and self-compassion.She explains how these free, accessible tools help regulate emotions, reduce stress, and build resilience during challenging times. With practical breathing exercises, soothing touch techniques, and compassionate reframing, listeners will learn how to ground themselves and respond with kindness instead of judgment.Whether you live with depression, anxiety, or are simply navigating life’s unpredictability, this episode offers real, simple, and sustainable strategies to improve mental health and emotional well-being.Primary Topics Covered:What self-compassion really means and why it’s essential for mental healthThe science-backed benefits of mindfulness and self-compassion for depression and anxietyBreathing exercises to calm the nervous system and reset during stressful momentsThe role of soothing touch and grounding techniques in emotional regulationWhy practicing kindness toward ourselves is a form of suicide preventionPractical ways to integrate mindfulness into daily life during a crisisEpisode Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction and welcome01:34 – Focusing this season on mental health during the pandemic02:44 – Guest introduction: Dr. Barbara Moser on mindfulness and self-compassion03:05 – What self-compassion means and why it matters04:33 – How self-compassion reduces depression and anxiety05:17 – Defining mindfulness and how it helps regulate emotions06:26 – Using mindfulness during unpredictable, stressful times07:37 – Mindfulness and self-compassion as tools for coping with emotions08:09 – Dr. Moser shares her personal struggles and coping strategies09:22 – Choosing mindful actions when overwhelmed09:59 – Breathing exercises for grounding and stress relief12:08 – The nervous system benefits of longer exhalations12:53 – The power of soothing, comforting self-touch14:52 – Practicing self-care not to erase feelings, but to meet them with kindness15:34 – Naming emotions as a way to create space and resilience16:35 – Closing reflections and gratitude for Dr. MoserExplore 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 happens when two people, both living with depression, face the fear of isolating alone during a global lockdown? For Glenn, the thought of sitting at home with his own negative self-talk felt unbearable. His solution was unconventional but life-saving: he moved in with a near-stranger during COVID-19 quarantine.In this candid conversation, Glenn shares the realities of pandemic mental health, from loneliness and anxiety to the importance of setting boundaries and building connection. Their unique “roommate agreement” not only eased the strain of isolation but also created a supportive partnership rooted in trust, humor, and resilience.This episode highlights how creativity, openness, and honest communication can help us cope with depression, loneliness, and uncertainty during quarantine — and why sometimes, the most unexpected choices can save our mental health.Primary Topics Covered:Why depression and isolation can intensify during quarantineGlenn’s decision to avoid staying alone for his mental healthThe surprising choice to live with a near-stranger during COVID-19The importance of setting clear boundaries and agreementsHow cohabitation provided emotional support and accountabilityHumor, trust, and resilience as coping strategiesLessons about loneliness, connection, and creative problem-solvingWhy unconventional solutions can sometimes be the healthiestTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction: depression and pandemic stress 01:03 – Glenn shares his fear of isolating alone with depression 02:26 – The risks of negative self-talk and loneliness during quarantine 03:09 – An unexpected opportunity: moving in with someone he barely knew 04:23 – Creating a written “roommate agreement” for boundaries and safety 05:21 – Negotiating finances, space, and work routines 06:57 – Living with a near-stranger: surprising comfort and zero stress 08:25 – Setting relationship boundaries and respecting personal space 09:45 – Mental health benefits of accountability and connection 11:05 – Supporting each other’s physical and emotional health 12:20 – Humor and shared values as tools for resilience 15:30 – Why this solution worked better than isolating alone 16:32 – Reflections: lessons for coping with depression during crisis 18:08 – Closing: honoring creativity, connection, and mental healthExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/