Giving Voice to Depression

In this episode, we flip the script as Giving Voice to Depression co-host Terri sits down with podcaster and mental health advocate Dan Udell of Know Yourself. Together, they discuss what it means to live with depression, how sharing real stories through podcasting can reduce stigma, and why open conversations about mental illness are critical for connection and healing.Listeners will hear candid reflections on navigating depression, the origins of Giving Voice to Depression, and the power of storytelling to remind us that none of us are alone.If you’ve ever wondered how sharing your mental health story can help others—or how podcasts are changing the conversation around depression—this episode is for you.Link to full interview here: https://anchor.fm/knowyourself/episodes/Know-Yourself---Episode-68---An-interview-with-Terry-from-Giving-Voice-to-Depression-podcast-e2gt5nPrimary Topics Covered:Why the Giving Voice to Depression podcast beganHow personal stories about depression help fight stigmaThe role of podcasting in mental health advocacyDepression’s impact on identity, self-talk, and relationshipsCoping strategies and the importance of support systemsDifferences in how people experience and express depressionWhy humor, honesty, and storytelling matter in recoveryTimestamps:00:00 - Welcome and introductions 00:35 - Why sharing depression stories matters 01:07 - Dan Udell on mental health advocacy and podcasting 02:00 - Terri shares her depression journey and podcast origins 05:03 - The role of family and support in coping with depression 06:22 - Lessons from crisis line volunteering 08:01 - A powerful story of suicide prevention and human connection 10:15 - Humor, honesty, and breaking stigma through conversations 11:19 - Terri describes what living with depression feels like 13:25 - PTSD, trauma, and the science of ACEs 14:30 - How siblings experience depression differently 17:41 - Podcast resources and where to find support 19:41 - Closing reflections and messages of 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/

Why don’t we teach kids how to recognize and respond to depression in school? In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we talk with Bobby Temps, host of Mental: The Podcast to Destigmatize Mental Health, about how mental health education could change—and even save—lives.Bobby shares his own story of struggling with depression as a young adult without the tools or language to understand what he was going through. From online tests to therapy and community support, he explains how resources helped him recover and inspired his advocacy.This conversation highlights the urgent need for open, national conversations about depression and mental health—in schools, families, and communities—to end stigma and build resilience for the next generation.Link to Bobby Temps's mental health podcast: http://mentalpodcast.co.ukPrimary Topics Covered:Bobby Temps’ experience with depression and the lack of early educationWhy living under pressure and expectations worsened his mental healthHow online tools and self-tests gave him clarityThe role of therapy and community support in recoveryThe importance of teaching signs of depression in schoolsHow stigma thrives in silence and misinformationBobby’s petition to make mental health part of the UK school curriculumThe role of public figures like Prince Harry in reducing stigmaThe empowering reminder: “You are enough.”Episode Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction and guest introduction: Bobby Temps 01:37 - Bobby’s early experiences with depression at university 02:52 - Struggles with daily functioning and recognizing warning signs 03:43 - Turning to online resources and depression self-tests 04:58 - Getting a diagnosis and first steps toward recovery 05:54 - Therapy, counseling, and social support in healing 07:05 - Why schools should teach mental health education 09:24 - Petition for mandatory mental health curriculum in the UK 10:52 - How Prince Harry and others opened national conversations 12:40 - Bobby’s message: You are enough, exactly as you are 14:11 - Closing reflections and next steps for changeExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Are you living with depression and extreme fatigue that never seems to improve?In this powerful episode, Scott, a husband and father, shares his journey of living with depression and exhaustion—and how a simple genetic test revealed an MTHFR gene mutation that changed his treatment path.After the devastating loss of his grandmother and a flare of depression and suicidal thoughts, Scott sought help from a therapist who suggested genetic testing. What he discovered explained his low energy, depression, and anxiety—and with a simple prescribed supplement, he experienced a life-changing difference in just weeks.This episode explores how genetic testing for depression and fatigue can open new treatment options, why so many people carry the MTHFR mutation without knowing it, and how lifestyle and diet changes can also help.If you’ve ever wondered why you’re always tired and depressed despite treatment, Scott’s story may offer new hope.Link to research article: https://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/gene/MTHFR#Link to more of an informal explanation: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-integrationist/201409/genetic-mutation-can-affect-mental-physical-healthPrimary Topics Covered:Scott’s lived experience with depression, anxiety, and exhaustionThe loss that triggered a severe depressive episodeWhy suicidal thoughts often accompany major depressive relapsesHow his therapist suggested genetic testing for depression treatmentWhat the MTHFR gene mutation is and how it affects energy and moodThe affordable test that revealed Scott’s mutationHow supplements and lifestyle changes can improve depression symptomsThe importance of sharing discoveries to help others with depressionTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction to today’s episode 01:33 – Scott’s journey: from listener to guest 02:21 – What sparked his curiosity about genetic testing 03:34 – Life crisis: loss of his grandmother and relapse into depression 04:05 – The return of suicidal thoughts 04:29 – His wife activates family support and encourages therapy 04:50 – Intake session: describing exhaustion as his main symptom 05:34 – The therapist suspects an MTHFR gene mutation 06:10 – A blood test confirms the genetic mutation 06:51 – Learning he cannot process B vitamins effectively 07:05 – Prescription supplement brings dramatic changes 08:21 – Scott describes newfound energy and relief from fatigue 09:08 – Why he wanted to share his discovery with others 09:23 – The power of community in mental health recovery 10:12 – Broader discussion: 30–45% of people may carry this mutation 11:45 – Lifestyle, diet, and stress-reduction strategies that help 13:08 – Co-hosts reflect on testing and their own fatigue 14:26 – Closing thoughts 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 episode of Giving Voice to Depression, David Woods Bartley shares his powerful story of surviving a suicide attempt and finding healing through connection. He explains how small acts of curiosity, recognition, and expression can create hope — and why connection is one of the most powerful tools in suicide prevention.David’s journey takes us from the edge of a bridge to a life filled with purpose, self-care, and advocacy. He shows how asking the right questions, listening without judgment, and building trust can literally save lives.Listeners will learn practical ways to support loved ones who are struggling, reframe their own self-care, and understand why connection is the cornerstone of recovery.Link to David Woods Bartley's website: https://www.davidwoodsbartley.com/Primary Topics Covered:Why connection is central to suicide preventionDavid’s personal story of surviving a suicide attemptThe toxic “voice of depression” and how it speaks the same lies to many peopleHow curiosity, recognition, and authentic expression create hopeLessons from working with animals as metaphors for understanding human behaviorThe role of first responders and compassionate questioning in crisisBuilding a daily self-care practice (sleep, nutrition, exercise, therapy, spirituality)Reframing dark anniversaries into days of gratitude and growthTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction to the episode and podcast 01:00 – International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day explained 01:30 – Dr. John Draper on suicide prevention and connection 02:00 – Introducing guest David Woods Bartley 02:20 – David’s unique background and use of animal stories for teaching 03:00 – The deer story and lessons about misunderstanding behavior 04:20 – Connection as curiosity, recognition, and expression 05:15 – Why expressing appreciation is life-saving 07:00 – David shares his suicide attempt story on the bridge 08:00 – A first responder’s life-saving questions 09:00 – Discovering “positive doubt” and stepping back from the edge 10:20 – Lessons learned in recovery and importance of daily self-care 11:30 – Redefining August 31st as his “New Year’s Day” of gratitude 12:30 – Reflections on how connection creates hope and saves lives 14:20 – Closing thoughts and invitation to join the 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/

The holidays are supposed to be “the most wonderful time of the year.” But for many, they bring stress, grief, financial strain, and worsening depression. In this episode, psychologist Dr. Anita Sands helps us unpack why holiday depression and anxiety are so common—and how to care for your mental health when expectations feel overwhelming.From practical coping strategies to compassionate mindset shifts, this conversation offers tools you can use right away to reduce stress, navigate family dynamics, and create a season that supports your well-being instead of draining it.If you struggle with holiday depression or anxiety, you are not alone—and you deserve a holiday that includes peace, self-care, and permission to do less.Primary Topics CoveredWhy depression and anxiety often worsen around the holidaysHow grief, finances, and social expectations intensify stressDr. Anita Sands’ “holiday gift” of compassionate invitationsThe power of giving yourself permission to say “no” or change traditionsSelf-care basics for protecting mental health during busy seasonsCoping with comparison, pressure, and guiltPractical ways to reduce stress and find meaningTimestamps00:00 – Introduction: depression and the holiday season 01:13 – Why depression and anxiety often worsen during holidays 02:26 – Family dynamics and the pressure of expectations 03:42 – Why some people withdraw during celebrations 05:33 – The role of grief and exhaustion in holiday depression 06:31 – Dr. Sands’ “holiday gift” of low-pressure invitations 07:22 – Practicing compassion and flexibility with others 08:44 – The importance of self-care during stressful times 10:46 – Reconnecting with love, hope, and goodwill 12:46 – Giving yourself permission to choose differently 13:56 – Doing less and protecting your mental health 14:46 – The cost of holiday stress—emotional and financial 16:12 – Changing traditions to support well-being 17:15 – Closing encouragement and holiday remindersExplore 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 can feel relentless—but recovery is possible, even after the darkest moments. In this episode, we share a powerful story of survival, relapse, and resilience. You’ll hear how early struggles with anxiety and depression led to suicide attempts, hospitalization, and self-stigma—and how persistence, treatment, and support eventually helped shape a life of purpose and hope.If you’ve ever felt like recovery is out of reach, this conversation is proof that setbacks don’t mean failure. It’s a reminder that depression is real, but so is healing.Link to Mark Henick's TED Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D1QoyTmeAYwPrimary Topics Covered:The weight of childhood anxiety and depression symptomsSuicide attempts, hospitalization, and the gaps in psychiatric careThe turning point: a life saved by human connectionWhy relapses are part of recovery—not proof of failurePractical coping strategies that work (therapy, meds, structure, sleep)Overcoming self-stigma and learning to accept depression as an illnessBuilding resilience, patience, and hopeTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction: Depression, stigma, and the power of shared stories 02:30 - Childhood struggles with anxiety, depression, and misunderstood symptoms 04:15 - Early suicide attempts, hospitalization, and the limits of psychiatric care 06:45 - The night on the bridge—and the stranger who saved his life 08:45 - Why early intervention and mental health education in schools matter 11:20 - Relapse as part of recovery: accepting setbacks without shame 13:30 - Coping strategies that work: therapy, medication, sleep, and awareness 15:45 - Patience, persistence, and perspective in long-term recovery 17:15 - Battling self-stigma: reframing depression as an illness, not weakness 19:45 - Final reflections: hope, resilience, and breaking stigmaExplore 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 Six Review of Giving Voice to Depression, co-hosts Brigitte and Terri reflect on the most powerful moments and lessons shared across the season. Through deeply personal and inspiring first-person accounts, this episode highlights resilience, healing, and the critical importance of support in coping with depression.From the hidden toll of trauma on first responders, to navigating guilt, grief, and suicide prevention, listeners will hear authentic stories of courage and community. You’ll also learn practical ways to check in on loved ones, reduce stigma, and offer meaningful support—whether online or in person.If you’re seeking hope, connection, or resources for mental health and suicide prevention, this recap provides a roadmap of episodes that can help you or someone you love feel less alone.Primary Topics Covered:The underreported mental health struggles of first respondersA son’s journey to understand and heal after his father’s suicideLiving with guilt and depression after tragedy—and finding hopeSuicide prevention awareness and everyday ways to support someone in crisisThe power of empathy, online community, and human connectionCrisis lines and why reaching out can save livesTalking openly about depression to reduce stigma and shameTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction and purpose of the season review 01:00 – Honoring guests who shared their vulnerable stories 03:22 – First responders and depression: the hidden toll of trauma 05:32 – A son’s journey after his father’s suicide 07:43 – Guilt, depression, and recovery after tragedy 09:13 – Suicide prevention awareness: support beyond hotlines 10:46 – Sam Dylan Finch’s 11 ways to support someone in crisis 12:55 – How empathy and online communities can save lives 15:30 – Crisis lines: why reaching out matters 17:48 – Early intervention and maintaining mental health 19:03 – Breaking stigma: the importance of talking about depression 21:28 – Closing reflections and invitation to Season SevenExplore 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 affects more than 350 million people worldwide, but too often its symptoms are misunderstood, ignored, or hidden because of stigma. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, hosts Terri and Brigitte walk through the common signs and symptoms of depression based on the DSM-5, and welcome guest Alexandria Brown, author of You, Me, and Depression.Alex shares her personal journey from anxiety in her teen years, to experiencing undiagnosed depression through college, to finally learning how to name and manage her illness. She discusses the turning point moments when she realized something was deeply wrong, and how therapy, medication, family support, and even pet therapy became critical tools in her recovery.The conversation highlights the power of naming depression, breaking stigma, and choosing compassion for yourself instead of judgment. If you or someone you love is struggling, this episode is a powerful reminder: you are not alone, and help is available.Primary Topics Covered:Defining depression using DSM-5 criteriaWhy stigma prevents early recognition and treatmentAlexandria Brown’s story: from anxiety to depression diagnosisHow recognizing depression can change self-compassion and healingCoping tools: therapy, antidepressants, pets, and support networksThe importance of sharing stories and building communityBreaking myths: depression doesn’t look the same for everyoneTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction: Why talking about depression matters 01:00 – DSM-5 symptoms of depression explained 03:00 – Guest intro: Alexandria Brown, author and mental health advocate 03:40 – Early struggles with anxiety and undiagnosed depression 05:00 – The impact of stigma and silence around mental health 06:30 – College years: breakdown and realizing something was wrong 07:40 – How diagnosis helped with self-compassion and clarity 09:30 – The role of therapy, antidepressants, and supportive family 10:45 – The surprising benefits of pet therapy for depression 12:00 – Why depression is different for everyone 13:40 – Stigma, judgment, and the invisibility of depression 15:00 – Finding strength in vulnerability and shared stories 17:00 – Closing reflections: depression is real, help 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/

How do you recognize when depression is escalating into a crisis—and what can you do before it reaches that point? In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we continue our conversation with Corinne, who bravely shares how calling a suicide prevention hotline saved her life during a dark period of postpartum depression.Now, from a place of healing, she explains the warning signs of a mental health decline, the tools she uses to prevent relapse, and why early action is essential. We discuss how to create a personal “mental health scale” for monitoring your well-being, practical self-care steps to stabilize before a crisis, and the importance of connection, honesty, and support.If you’ve ever wondered how to recognize when it’s time to reach out for help—or how to support someone you love—this conversation offers both hope and practical strategies.Link to Corrine's original article: https://qz.com/1381952/suicide-hotlines-really-do-save-lives-i-know-because-one-saved-mine/Primary Topics Covered:The lifesaving role of crisis hotlines and immediate interventionPostpartum depression and suicidal thoughts: Corinne’s story of survivalCreating and using a “mental health scale” (1–10 system) to monitor well-beingEarly warning signs that depression may be worseningPractical steps: therapy, exercise, rest, meditation, and connectionHow openness and sharing reduce stigma and isolationWhy prevention and early intervention matter as much as crisis responseTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction to the episode and its purpose 01:14 – Corinne’s story: postpartum depression and the suicide hotline call that saved her life 02:06 – Shifting from survival to recovery: how hope returned 03:23 – Why sharing stories of recovery is essential for reducing stigma 04:25 – Building a “mental health scale” to track warning signs before a crisis 05:31 – Practical steps to take when symptoms worsen (therapy, connection, rest, exercise, meditation) 06:20 – The importance of reaching out to trusted loved ones 07:34 – Recognizing the difference between normal sadness and a mental health crisis 08:42 – Why early intervention makes recovery easier and more effective 09:19 – How hotlines provide immediate “shock paddles” to restart hope 10:44 – The danger of secrecy: why openness saves lives 11:06 – Reframing honesty about depression as “the gift of sharing your experience” 12:04 – Proactive strategies to change course before a breakdown 12:33 – Why silence and shame make depression worse 13:07 – Closing thoughts: breaking stigma and honoring shared storiesExplore 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 you’re in crisis, knowing that help is just three digits away can make all the difference. In this episode, journalist Corinne Purtill shares her deeply personal experience of calling a suicide hotline during a dark moment in her life. She opens up about the misconceptions she had about crisis lines, what actually happened when she dialed, and how that call changed everything.We also discuss what callers can expect when reaching out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, why you don’t need to be suicidal to call, and how trained listeners provide immediate support, guidance, and hope.This episode is a reminder that crisis lines save lives, and that reaching out is a powerful act of courage—not weakness.Link to Corinne Purtill's article: https://qz.com/1381952/suicide-hotlines-really-do-save-lives-i-know-because-one-saved-mine/Primary Topics Covered:Misconceptions about suicide hotlines and who they are forWhat it’s like to call the 988 Suicide & Crisis LifelineHow depression convinces people to hide their strugglesThe importance of having the right words to ask for helpWhy silence and shame worsen mental health strugglesCorinne’s story of reaching out and finding hope through connectionWhat recovery looks like after a crisisTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction and the importance of 988 as the new suicide hotline number 01:00 – Why the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline matters 02:06 – Corinne’s story: never expecting to call a hotline 03:34 – How depression convinces us to stay silent 04:35 – Misconceptions about privacy vs. shame 04:46 – The risk of stopping antidepressants during pregnancy 06:05 – Hiding depression behind a smile 06:54 – The shame that fuels silence and suicidal thoughts 08:08 – Depression’s biggest lie: convincing you it’s reality 09:09 – Corinne makes a plan to end her life 09:43 – The moment she decided to call the hotline 10:30 – What to say when you reach out for help 10:57 – The power of having words to ask for support 11:24 – What happens if you’re placed on hold when calling 988 12:46 – Recovery after crisis: therapy, medication, and ongoing support 13:38 – Recognizing warning signs before “code red”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/