Giving Voice to Depression

When Patty Kajawa lost her teenage son Jack to suicide, her world changed forever. Jack was funny, kind, and deeply loved—but like so many living with depression, he hid his pain behind a mask.In this episode, Patty shares her family’s story with raw honesty, reflecting on what she wishes parents, teachers, and teens knew about depression and suicide. From the importance of asking direct questions—like “Are you safe?”—to why honesty in therapy is critical, her message blends heartbreak with hope.Patty also offers a powerful reminder that suicide prevention is not only about awareness campaigns, but about daily kindness, listening without judgment, and making sure our loved ones know they belong.Primary Topics Covered:A mother’s experience losing her son to suicide at 18Why depression often looks different than stereotypes suggestThe importance of honest conversations about suicidal thoughtsThe role of kindness and belonging in suicide preventionWhat Patty wishes more parents, teens, and providers understoodWhy awareness alone isn’t enough to save livesThe importance of telling the truth in therapy and psychiatryHolding onto hope and honoring lost loved onesTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction and Suicide Prevention Awareness Month context 01:15 - Radical belonging and prevention: reflections from Jess Stoneman-Raney 02:54 - Patty Kajawa introduces her kindness challenge for Jack’s birthday 04:02 - Small acts of kindness as suicide prevention 05:27 - Revisiting Patty’s 2018 interview about her son Jack 06:38 - Dr. Barbara Moser on the complexity of suicide prevention 09:28 - Patty shares Jack’s story and family struggles 11:24 - Jack’s humor, kindness, and hidden depression 12:31 - Why teens may not tell the truth in therapy 13:55 - The reality of depression masking and stereotypes 15:09 - Patty and Jack’s phrase: “Are you safe?” 16:05 - Mental health days and coping tools for kids 17:12 - Wrestling with guilt and the “what ifs” 18:26 - Patty’s faith and her commitment to share Jack’s story 19:08 - Updated language guidelines around suicide 19:31 - Final reflections and closingExplore 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 is more than just “feeling sad.” It changes how you think, move, sleep, eat, and connect with others. In this episode, psychologist Dr. Anita Sands helps us break through the most common myths and misconceptions about depression.You’ll learn what depression really feels like from the inside—why it’s not laziness, weakness, or something you can just “snap out of.” Dr. Sands explains the symptoms to watch for, how brain fog and negative thought spirals make life feel impossible, and why professional support is often needed for recovery.We’ll also share ways to support someone who is struggling, with real-life examples and language you can use to start compassionate conversations. Whether you’re experiencing depression yourself or trying to help someone you love, this episode offers clarity, hope, and practical next steps.Primary Topics Covered:The difference between sadness and clinical depressionKey symptoms of depression: mood, energy, sleep, appetite, and focusUnderstanding brain fog and cognitive changes in depressionWhy guilt, hopelessness, and worthlessness intensify symptomsThe role of time (two-week diagnostic threshold) in identifying depressionMisconceptions about depression as “weakness” or “laziness”The importance of therapy, medication, and other professional supportHow friends and family can check in and offer real helpWhat to say when you don’t know what to sayTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction to the episode and hosts 01:16 – What depression actually is (and what it isn’t) 02:12 – Why depression should be seen as a serious illness 02:41 – Emotional symptoms: sadness, irritability, numbness 03:33 – Energy shifts: restlessness, exhaustion, and withdrawal 04:23 – Behavioral changes: lack of motivation, loss of interest, “zombie walk” 05:04 – Cognitive symptoms: brain fog and difficulty concentrating 06:21 – Duration and when depression becomes diagnosable 07:51 – Seeking help: therapy, medication, or both 08:27 – Why recovery often requires multiple approaches 09:20 – Supporting loved ones: starting safe conversations 10:07 – Michael Phelps example: checking in with a struggling friend 11:00 – Helping with logistics: appointments and practical support 12:24 – Supportive language: “You deserve to feel better” 13:34 – Comparing depression to cancer to illustrate severity 14:10 – Resources: website and Facebook community 14:58 – Closing reminder of hope and recoveryExplore 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 in older adults is often misunderstood or dismissed as a “normal” part of aging. But the reality is, late-life depression is common, underdiagnosed, and too often left untreated. In this heartfelt episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we revisit a conversation with Mary, a 93-year-old mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who bravely shared her struggles with aging, loneliness, and depression.Mary’s honest words highlight the stigma older generations face in talking about mental health, the unique challenges of losing friends and independence, and the importance of connection, presence, and support.This replay not only honors Mary’s voice but also shines a light on the urgent need to address mental health in older adults with compassion, openness, and community.Primary Topics Covered:The stigma around mental health in older adultsWhy late-life depression is often overlooked or dismissedThe impact of loneliness and loss on seniors’ mental healthThe importance of family, connection, and showing upPractical ways to support aging loved ones experiencing depressionTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction and context of the episode 01:13 – Remembering Mary and honoring her voice 02:28 – Mary introduces herself and speaks about being 93 and depressed 03:10 – Generational stigma and attitudes toward mental health 03:46 – Coping with aging, deafness, and loneliness 04:59 – How stigma and self-stigma impact older adults 06:06 – Mary’s reflections on feeling ashamed of depression 07:28 – Why seniors struggle to open up about depression 08:39 – What support looks like to Mary 09:54 – The universality of wanting someone to show up and care 10:58 – Healthy habits and mental health in older adults 11:52 – Reflections on Mary’s courage and message 12:10 – Closing thoughts and preview of next week’s episodeExplore 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 doesn’t just affect adults—it can begin in childhood, often going unnoticed until years later. In this episode, Sally looks back at her own childhood and shares how her early signs of depression were overlooked and misunderstood. From excessive sleeping to dark writing and persistent sadness, Sally’s story highlights why recognizing and responding to childhood depression is crucial.Listeners will learn what warning signs to watch for, why stigma often delays support, and how families, schools, and communities can intervene earlier to change the trajectory of a child’s life.This conversation is a reminder to parents, educators, and caregivers: children often lack the words to describe what they’re feeling, but their behaviors, writings, and silences may be speaking for them.Primary Topics Covered:Why childhood depression often goes unnoticedKey symptoms of depression in children (sleep changes, isolation, dark writing, loss of joy)The role of grief and family dynamics in worsening depressionHow stigma and lack of awareness delay interventionThe life-changing difference of medication and therapy later in lifeWhy parents, teachers, and mentors must tune in and take actionSally’s message of hope: with awareness and support, children today don’t have to suffer in silenceTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction: Why childhood depression matters 01:00 - Sally’s story: looking back at her 10-year-old self 02:15 - Early symptoms: excessive sleeping, sadness, and withdrawal 03:25 - The impact of grief after losing her grandmother 04:10 - Dark poetry as a cry for help 05:10 - Teacher concern that went unaddressed at home 06:05 - A childhood letter that revealed hidden depression 07:30 - Growing up without mental health support 08:40 - First diagnosis and antidepressant experience in adulthood 10:05 - The struggle with stopping and restarting medications 12:20 - Building a successful career while managing depression 13:20 - How depression still “feels like wearing a rain-soaked coat” 14:30 - The importance of recognizing childhood depression today 15:40 - Ending stigma and demanding support for kids 16:50 - Final reflections: helping children get help soonerExplore 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 Seven in Review” episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Bridget and Terry reflect on the most powerful moments from the past nine episodes. Each guest shared a unique perspective on depression—covering personal struggles, treatment breakthroughs, and powerful reminders of connection and hope.You’ll hear insights from suicide attempt survivors, mental health advocates, parents, therapists, and everyday people who stepped forward to share their lived experiences. This review episode works like an audio table of contents, helping you discover which full conversations resonate most with you while reminding us all that we are never alone in the fight against depression.Whether you’re coping with depression yourself or supporting a loved one, these highlights will give you practical tools, encouragement, and hope to carry forward.Primary Topics Covered:The power of connection in preventing suicide and creating hopeGenetic testing for depression treatment and personalized medicineHow national conversations (including royals in the UK) reduce stigmaReflections on living with depression as siblings and podcast co-hostsManaging expectations and emotions during the holidaysGratitude, connection, and reframing depression’s role in our livesMessages of hope to younger suicidal selves and struggling listenersThe importance of talking to children about mental health earlyCommunity and solidarity as tools to reduce isolationTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction and podcast milestone (100,000 listens) 01:26 – Why review episodes matter 02:31 – David Woods Bartley: Connection creates hope and saves lives 04:19 – Scott: Genetic testing and finding new energy with MTHFR treatment 06:20 – Bobby Temps: Encouraging a national discussion on mental health 07:46 – Dan Udell: Know Yourself podcast and sibling perspectives on depression 10:00 – Steve Austin: Getting real about the holidays and mental health 10:59 – Dan: The best gifts—gratitude, connection, and hope 13:25 – Reframing depression and finding control 13:36 – John Pavlovitz: “To Those Who Struggle at Christmas” 16:16 – Charlotte: Messages to my younger suicidal self 17:59 – TJ: Talking to your children about mental health 19:48 – Community reminders: “You are not alone” 20:20 – Closing reflections and season wrap-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/

Children are often more observant than we realize—they notice when a parent is struggling with depression or anxiety, even if no one names it. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, guest T.J. shares his journey of living with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD, and how he found the courage to talk openly with his young son about mental health.Instead of hiding his struggles, T.J. chose honesty—and in doing so, he built trust, reduced stigma, and gave his child the tools to understand mental health at a young age.This conversation explores why parents need to talk about depression, how to explain mental illness in age-appropriate ways, and why ongoing conversations matter more than a single talk. Listeners will come away with practical strategies and emotional encouragement for having these difficult but necessary family discussions.Link to WebMD article on Children's Mental Health: https://www.webmd.com/depression/mental-health-depression-children#1Primary Topics Covered:Why children notice depression and anxiety in parentsHow secrecy about mental health increases fear and stigmaTips for explaining depression to kids in simple, non-scary languageWhy honesty builds trust and resilience in childrenThe role of love, listening, and empathy in family mental health conversationsWhy ongoing dialogue matters more than a one-time talkT.J.’s message to parents struggling with whether to speak upTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction: Why children need honest conversations about depression 01:42 - T.J.’s story: living with depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD 03:05 - How his struggles affected daily life and relationships 05:18 - The turning point: realizing his son noticed his depression 07:10 - Why silence around mental health creates confusion and stigma 09:04 - How T.J. explained depression to his child in simple terms 11:20 - Encouraging ongoing conversations, not just one talk 13:15 - Tips for parents on honesty and age-appropriate language 14:50 - Building resilience in children through openness 16:40 - Closing reflections: why breaking stigma begins at homeExplore 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 conversation, Charlotte Underwood reflects on her teenage years living with undiagnosed depression and anxiety. She opens up about the darkness she experienced, the resilience she didn’t know she had, and the lessons she wishes her younger self could have known. Now in her 20s, Charlotte shares how she moved from isolation and despair to building a life filled with love, connection, and purpose. Her story is one of honesty, hope, and encouragement for every teen — or adult — who feels lost in depression.Primary Topics Covered:Charlotte’s early struggles with anxiety, depression, and traumaThe loneliness of growing up without understanding mental illnessWhy depression convinces you that nothing will ever get betterLessons she wishes she had known at 14 about mental health, resilience, and supportThe role of therapy, self-care, and small acts of kindness in recoveryHow love, connection, and self-acceptance can transform lifeEncouragement and messages of hope for struggling teens todayTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction and podcast mission 01:11 - Depression’s convincing lies about permanence 01:36 - Discovering Charlotte’s gratitude post online 02:49 - Charlotte’s early struggles as a teenager 03:57 - How she envisioned her future at 14 04:52 - Building a life she never thought possible 05:41 - A joyful night that sparked her message of hope 07:10 - What she wishes she knew about depression as a teen 07:56 - Discovering her resilience and inner strength 08:53 - The importance of support from family and friends 10:15 - Hiding depression and self-harm from loved ones 11:02 - Why she thought she would be rejected if she shared 12:08 - Understanding that support often exists if you reach out 13:14 - Discovering that different treatments exist and work differently 13:10 - Knowing the future can hold joy, love, and purpose 14:20 - Charlotte’s direct message to struggling teens 16:09 - Hosts reflect on Charlotte’s resilience and hope 17:47 - The metaphor of keeping the spark of hope alive 19:00 - Closing reflections and inspirationExplore 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 people, Christmas isn’t joyful—it’s painful. Depression, grief, and loneliness often intensify during the holidays, making it feel impossible to celebrate.This special holiday episode, written and read by John Pavlovitz, is a message for anyone who feels unseen or overwhelmed this season. Whether you’re grieving, battling depression or anxiety, living with addiction, or struggling with self-worth, this episode offers compassion, solidarity, and hope.You are not weak. You are not alone. And this moment, as heavy as it feels, is not the end of your story.Link to John Pavlovitz's article: https://johnpavlovitz.com/2017/12/24/to-those-who-struggle-this-christmas/Primary Topics Covered:Why depression and anxiety often worsen during ChristmasThe hidden struggles behind “holiday cheer”Messages for those grieving or facing lonelinessCompassion for those battling addiction and self-hatredThe importance of solidarity: you are not the only one sufferingWhy holiday depression doesn’t mean permanent hopelessnessWords of hope for surviving this seasonTimestamps:00:00 - Welcome and episode introduction 00:38 - John Pavlovitz begins holiday message 01:15 - For those grieving losses and broken relationships 02:05 - For those struggling with depression and anxiety 02:55 - For those battling addiction or self-hatred 03:40 - For those feeling isolated or forgotten this Christmas 04:25 - Reminder: you are not alone in this struggle 05:00 - This pain is not permanent—your story continues 05:32 - Closing encouragement and holiday reflectionsExplore 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 holiday-themed episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Dan shares his journey of living with anxiety and depression while hiding his struggles for decades. After a hospitalization that saved his life, he found strength in community, gratitude, and openness. Inspired by others who had shared their stories, Dan bravely speaks publicly about his own experience for the first time.Through his candid reflections, listeners will hear how shame and stigma can silence people—even when they’re surrounded by loved ones—and how connection and honesty can open the door to healing. This heartfelt conversation highlights three life-changing gifts: gratitude, connection, and hope.If you’ve ever felt the weight of depression or struggled to share your truth, this episode is for you.Primary Topics Covered:Why many people hide their depression due to stigma and shameThe life-saving role of hospitalization and support networksHow gratitude and openness can shift perspective in recoveryThe importance of breaking silence and talking about depressionGenerational differences in openness about mental healthWhy connection and community are essential in healingTimestamps:00:08 – Introduction to the episode 01:26 – The three gifts: gratitude, connection, and hope 02:42 – Meet Dan and his story of hidden depression 04:20 – Avoiding conversations about mental health 05:01 – Hospitalization and confronting suicidal ideation 06:16 – Finding the courage to speak publicly about depression 07:57 – How shame and stigma fuel silence 09:28 – The relief and power of talking openly 10:40 – The impact of depression on family and loved ones 11:45 – Conversations with his son and breaking generational silence 12:36 – Realizing depression doesn’t discriminate 13:46 – The role of self-talk and negative thought cycles 14:15 – Small but important steps toward change 15:25 – Why sharing stories reduces stigma and brings hope 16:36 – Closing reflections on courage and hope for the 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/

The holiday season brings joy for some, but for many, it’s a time of overwhelming pressure, financial strain, family conflict, and loneliness. In this candid conversation, self-care consultant Steve Austin shares strategies for surviving holiday depression with grace and realism. From setting boundaries to rethinking gift-giving and embracing imperfect traditions, this episode is full of practical tools and compassionate reminders that you can create a season that honors your mental health.Whether you’re grieving, stressed, or just feeling “bah humbug,” you’ll find hope, validation, and concrete ways to lighten the load.Primary Topics Covered:Why the holidays trigger depression and anxiety for so manyThe top two holiday stressors: finances and family dynamicsLetting go of perfectionism and unrealistic expectationsCreative, low-cost traditions that bring genuine joyHow to set boundaries with difficult family situationsWhat to do if you’re spending the holidays aloneThe role of self-care and permission to say “no”Why giving (time, presence, kindness) matters more than giftsTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction to the episode and the holiday mental health theme 01:26 – The joy vs. dread of the holidays: why experiences differ 02:27 – Guest Steve Austin joins the conversation 03:42 – The two biggest holiday stressors: finances and family 05:02 – Letting go of “perfect Christmas” expectations 05:42 – Simple, affordable traditions that matter most 07:40 – Childhood memory: the “perfect” $20 Christmas 09:11 – How to navigate family drama and blended traditions 10:14 – What to do when you’re alone during the holidays 11:18 – Self-care basics for surviving holiday stress 12:29 – The importance of giving (beyond material gifts) 13:33 – Final reflections on permission, boundaries, and connection 14:02 – Closing thoughts and reminder: you are not aloneExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/