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

Could depression begin in the gut?In this episode, Dr. Zach Bush, one of the few triple board-certified physicians in the U.S., explains the fascinating link between gut health and depression. Drawing from both science and personal experience with major depression, Dr. Bush describes how the microbiome, inflammation, and toxins like glyphosate affect our brain chemistry and mood.Listeners will learn how conditions like leaky gut disrupt serotonin and dopamine production, why depression rates have soared in recent decades, and what practical steps we can take — from food choices to time in nature — to restore balance.If you’ve ever wondered how your diet, microbiome, and environment impact mental health, this conversation will give you hope and concrete strategies to improve both your physical and emotional well-being.Link to Dr. Zach Bush's website: https://zachbushmd.com/Links to related articles:https://www.produceretailer.com/article/news-article/2018-dirty-dozen-and-clean-15-lists-released https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/the-gut-brain-connectionPrimary Topics Covered:Why rates of depression have skyrocketed since the 1900sDr. Bush’s personal struggle with major depression and suicidal thoughtsHow glyphosate and environmental toxins damage the gut liningWhat “leaky gut” is and how it affects brain functionThe gut microbiome’s role in producing serotonin and dopamineWhy inflammation is a root cause of many mood disordersHow fermented foods and probiotics help restore gut balanceThe power of nature, movement, and purpose in healing depressionSmall daily steps to support gut health and improve moodDetailed Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction and framing: what causes depression? 01:37 – Why gut health may hold answers doctors overlook 02:08 – Dr. Zach Bush’s background and expertise 03:04 – The fine line between mental health and disorder 03:49 – A catastrophic rise in mood disorders since 1900 04:38 – Dr. Bush’s personal experience with depression and suicidal ideation 05:49 – Why depression isn’t a personal weakness 06:27 – The role of glyphosate and toxins in disrupting gut health 07:33 – How toxins spread globally through water and air 08:33 – Why the microbiome is central to serotonin and dopamine production 09:12 – How to build resilience: exposure to diverse ecosystems 09:41 – Making smart choices with organic foods 09:59 – Fermented foods and the return of microbiome diversity 10:35 – Can gut health improvements reduce the need for depression meds? 10:55 – Purpose, gratitude, and finding meaning in healing 12:18 – The 4-minute exercise routine for energy and mood 13:09 – Closing reflections and resourcesExplore 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 moving episode, we explore how open conversations about mental health can spark healing that extends across generations. Dan, a father who once resisted sharing his struggles with depression, found strength in speaking out. His openness inspired his son, Kendall, to step forward and share his own story of living with depression.Together, they reveal how honest dialogue deepened their relationship, broke cycles of silence, and created a ripple effect of healing within their family. Their story highlights the power of vulnerability, the importance of checking in with loved ones, and the reality that depression does not have to be carried alone.This is an inspiring example of how breaking stigma and “being comfortable with being uncomfortable” can help families—and future generations—move toward hope and healing.Primary Topics Covered:The impact of silence vs. openness in families living with depressionHow a father’s decision to share inspired his son to speak outRecognizing depression’s voice and internal dialogueBuilding resilience and connection through honest conversationsThe ripple effect of generational healingTimestamps:00:57 – Opening reflections on unexpected stories of healing 02:15 – Dan shares how listening helped him open up about depression 03:12 – Kendall explains why his father’s openness inspired him 04:19 – Hearing a parent talk about depression for the first time 05:17 – How Dan’s story removed barriers for Kendall to share 06:29 – A pivotal father-son conversation after hospitalization 07:47 – Talking about depression within a family for the first time 09:23 – The guilt and confusion of “having no reason to be depressed” 10:12 – Depression’s negative inner voice and its impact 11:36 – Coping strategies Kendall uses to reset during depression 12:55 – Siblings stepping in as added support within the family 13:28 – The power of asking “How are you, really?” 15:30 – The ripple effect: healing across generations 16:39 – Closing reflections on connection, stigma, 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/

Coping with a mental illness like depression or bipolar disorder isn’t just about what you should do — it’s also about avoiding behaviors that can sabotage recovery. In this episode, guest Catherine Ponti shares her personal journey of living with bipolar disorder and the hard lessons she’s learned about behaviors that made her healing more difficult.From denial and dismissal to medication non-adherence and reckless choices, Catherine’s story sheds light on the six most common mistakes people make when coping with mental illness. By sharing her experiences openly, she helps others recognize harmful patterns and take proactive steps toward recovery.If you’ve ever felt “stuck” in your mental health journey, this episode offers both cautionary tales and a message of hope: with the right support, treatment adjustments, and mindset, recovery is possible.Link to NAMI blog article: https://www.nami.org/Blogs/NAMI-Blog/January-2019/Coping-with-Mental-Illness-What-Not-to-DoLink to ForLikeMinds resources: https://www.forlikeminds.com/Primary Topics Covered:Why “what not to do” is just as important as traditional mental health adviceCatherine’s experience with severe bipolar disorder and hospitalizationsHow a medication change transformed her recoverySix harmful behaviors to avoid when coping with mental illnessThe role of denial, dismissal, and recklessness in blocking progressWhy self-belief and peer support communities matter for recoveryTimestamps:00:00 - Welcome and introduction 01:26 - Shifting focus: what NOT to do in coping with mental illness 01:55 - Catherine’s journey with bipolar disorder and recovery challenges 02:50 - The impact of ineffective treatment and changing psychiatrists 04:16 - How a new medication regimen changed everything 05:19 - Six behaviors to avoid: starting with treatment ambivalence 06:53 - Taking ownership in your own recovery process 08:16 - The dangers of denial and dismissal 09:38 - Ignorance and refusal to learn about your condition 09:45 - Medication non-adherence and its consequences 10:31 - Recklessness and relapse risk 11:24 - Overcoming being “stuck” through peer support and self-belief 12:26 - Catherine’s online community: For Like Minds 12:51 - Podcast anniversary and gratitude to listeners 13:21 - Closing reflections 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/

When Patty Kijawa’s teenage son Jack died by suicide, her world was shattered. Through unimaginable grief, she has found the strength to speak openly—hoping her family’s story might save another.In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Patty shares her journey as a grieving mother, the subtle changes and warning signs she wishes more families knew, and why teens often open up to friends rather than parents. Her message is one of both heartbreak and hope: that through awareness, compassion, and open conversations, we can prevent other families from experiencing the same loss.If you’ve ever wondered what suicide warning signs to look for, or how to support a struggling teen, Patty’s voice offers both painful honesty and life-saving insight.If you or someone you love is in crisis, please call or text 988 in the U.S. to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.Primary Topics Covered:A mother’s story of losing her teenage son to suicideWhy grief after suicide is uniquely painful and complexThe subtle warning signs parents may missWhy teens often share their struggles with peers, not adultsHow one mother turned tragedy into suicide prevention advocacyBringing awareness to schools and communitiesFaith, resilience, and finding meaning in lossCrisis resources and the importance of reaching outTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction and suicide awareness message 01:41 – Patty shares her son Jack’s story 03:18 – Their last family conversation before his death 04:37 – A mother’s final goodbye 05:56 – Speaking about Jack at his memorial 07:39 – What Jack wrote to encourage others 08:12 – Private struggles revealed in his diary 09:08 – Why suicide warning signs are easy to miss 09:53 – Friends noticing changes before adults do 10:39 – Red flags and behaviors parents should watch for 10:58 – Patty shares her message in schools 11:31 – Faith and finding purpose through grief 12:23 – Suicide prevention resources and 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/

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/