Giving Voice to Depression

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Bridget and Terry remind us that suicide prevention and support aren’t just about professionals, therapy, or medication. Sometimes, the most life-saving act is simply listening and showing up with empathy.Guests Bea and Debbie share powerful, raw experiences of reaching out to the Giving Voice to Depression Facebook community during their darkest moments. From losing a spouse to nearly ending their life, both found strength, hope, and connection through the kindness of strangers who took time to respond with compassion.You’ll learn why you don’t need to be an expert to make a real difference in someone’s life—and why empathy, validation, and presence can mean everything to someone in pain.Primary Topics Covered:Why suicide prevention requires daily awareness, not just during awareness month.How lived experience and peer support can sometimes help more than clinical advice.Bea’s story of loss and how community empathy carried her through grief.Debbie’s near-suicide and the crucial role of online support in saving her life.Why listening, empathy, and small gestures can truly save lives.Encouragement to step in, even in small ways, when someone is struggling.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction and mission of the podcast 01:00 - Suicide Prevention Awareness beyond one month 01:28 - Guests Bea and Debbie share why they reached out for support 02:07 - Why you don’t have to be an expert to make a difference 03:06 - Bea on finding community after her husband’s sudden death 04:28 - The healing power of empathy and being heard 07:06 - Love, empathy, and caring in online communities 09:00 - Why sharing stories and tools matters 11:14 - Debbie’s experience with suicidal crisis and reaching out 12:45 - How community support shifted her perspective 14:16 - Why lived experience makes peer support powerful 15:24 - Small acts of connection that save lives 16:20 - Humanity, hope, and why saying “you’re not alone” matters 17:45 - Closing thoughts and reminder: speak up and 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/

When someone you love is living with depression, it’s not always easy to know how to help. Do you step in with advice? Should you just listen? What if you say the wrong thing?In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, writer and mental health advocate Sam Dylan Finch shares 11 meaningful ways his loved ones supported him through depression, anxiety, and difficult times. These examples—big and small—show how trust, compassion, and simple presence can make all the difference.Whether you’re a friend, partner, parent, or sibling, you’ll learn practical ways to support someone without overstepping, and how to keep showing up even after the crisis moment has passed.Primary Topics Covered:Why advice often backfires when someone is strugglingHow to navigate the mental health system alongside a loved oneSupporting someone who struggles with both depression and substance useThe importance of trust—even when you disagree with their choicesWhy it’s crucial to keep checking in after someone “seems better”Balancing caregiver burnout with continued supportSimple, powerful words that help someone feel safe and cared forTimestamps:00:02 – Introduction to the episode and series 00:46 – Why support matters even when it’s hard to ask for help 02:46 – #6: Don’t lecture or push treatment advice 04:42 – #7: Helping navigate the mental health system 07:20 – #8: Maintaining trust, even in difficult choices 08:44 – Supporting without judgment in substance use struggles 10:21 – How to encourage safety planning with compassion 11:10 – #9: Keep checking in, even when they appear better 12:33 – #10: Taking a caregiver break without causing harm 14:15 – #11: Don’t wait for someone to ask for help—reach out 16:27 – Why ongoing support matters after the “crisis” moment 20:31 – Two powerful things supporters can say to help someone feel safe 21:59 – Why we must learn this “support language” for mental health 22:32 – Closing thoughts and gratitude to guest Sam Dylan FinchExplore 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 someone you love is struggling with depression, it can be hard to know how to help. Do you offer advice? Do you step back? Do you just listen? In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we talk with Sam Dylan Finch, who shares five practical, real-life ways that friends and family can step in to offer meaningful support during a mental health crisis.Sam’s perspective is shaped not by theory, but by lived experience. These are things people actually did for him that made a difference. From listening without judgment, to helping with daily tasks, to building a support team—this episode is filled with ideas you can use right away.If you’ve ever worried about “saying the wrong thing” or wondered how you can truly show up for someone in the dark, this conversation will give you clarity, compassion, and concrete steps to take.Link to Sam's full list: https://letsqueerthingsup.com/2018/08/24/11-important-ways-my-loved-ones-supported-me-during-a-mental-health-crisis/Primary Topics Covered:Why listening matters more than offering solutionsAsking what someone needs instead of assumingOffering simple, practical help with daily tasksThe importance of checking on basic self-care (eating, sleeping, medication)Why learning about your loved one’s condition is a sign of respectSending tangible reminders of care and loveUsing a team approach so no one supporter feels overwhelmedTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction and context 01:00 - Why offering support can feel awkward and difficult 02:40 - The importance of listening over talking 05:10 - Asking what’s needed instead of assuming 07:00 - Offering help with daily tasks like meals or chores 09:10 - Checking on basic needs: food, water, sleep, medication 09:50 - Learning about your loved one’s mental health condition 10:20 - The value of tangible reminders, like small gifts or notes 11:07 - Taking a team approach to support 13:24 - Why supporters also need support themselves 14:18 - Building a contact list for crisis situations 15:27 - Resources: Crisis Text Line and Suicide Prevention Lifeline 16:30 - Final reflections and encouragementExplore 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 and deeply moving episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Cindy Kolbe shares her journey through overwhelming guilt, grief, and depression after a tragic car accident left her daughter paralyzed. For years, Cindy carried the crushing weight of self-blame, believing she had failed her family. She opens up about her struggles with major depression, the difficulty of forgiving herself, and the slow, painful process of healing.But this story isn’t only about despair—it’s about resilience, hope, and the transformative power of love. Cindy describes how her daughter’s determination and joy after the accident inspired her, and how practices like therapy, medication, and meditation helped her cope. Her story is a reminder that even after life-altering tragedy, recovery and meaning are possible.Whether you’re struggling with guilt, depression, or simply searching for hope after hardship, Cindy’s journey will encourage you to keep going.Link to Cindy's blog: http://www.strugglingwithserendipity.com/Primary Topics Covered:The connection between guilt and depressionThe impact of a life-altering accident on mental healthStruggles with self-forgiveness and self-worthThe role of therapy, antidepressants, and meditation in recoveryThe importance of hope, resilience, and community supportCindy’s daughter’s inspiring journey from paralysis to independence and achievementTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction and context for the episode 02:00 – Understanding depression as a complex condition 03:07 – Cindy’s early experiences with depression and medication 03:41 – The night of the accident and its aftermath 05:31 – Cindy’s caregiving role and feelings of guilt 07:26 – The crushing weight of depression and guilt 08:54 – How guilt fueled feelings of unworthiness 09:16 – Her daughter’s resilience and unexpected joy 10:30 – Therapy, antidepressants, and meditation as coping tools 12:14 – The importance of hope and community support 13:25 – Her daughter’s inspiring accomplishments 15:29 – How tragedy unexpectedly reshaped their lives for the better 16:15 – Finding gratitude and meaning after loss 17:21 – Closing reflections and reminder about suicide preventionExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

In this powerful episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Sebastian Slobodin shares his deeply personal journey after losing his father to suicide at age six. Growing up in silence and stigma, he struggled with depression himself until a chance encounter opened the door to healing.Sebastian embarked on a global pilgrimage, speaking with dozens of his father’s friends to better understand the man he lost—and in the process, he uncovered lessons about self-worth, resilience, and the dangers of defining ourselves by external success.Years later, his healing journey empowered him to step in and save another man’s life, proving that sharing our stories can create ripple effects of hope.This conversation is a moving reminder that grief doesn’t have to be faced alone, recovery is possible, and your story may one day save someone else’s life.Learn more about Sebastian and his father in the book Ashes in the Ocean, available on Amazon.com: www.amazon.com/Ashes-Ocean-Through-Learning-Fathers/dp/0692051198Primary Topics Covered:The devastating impact of a parent’s suicide on a childGrowing up in silence, stigma, and unprocessed griefHow self-worth tied to external success increases mental health risksThe turning point: finding connection through shared experiences of lossLessons learned from a global pilgrimage to understand his fatherHow sharing his story allowed Sebastian to help save another lifeThe importance of speaking openly about suicide and mental healthFinding meaning and purpose after tragedyTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Giving Voice to Depression and episode theme01:10 - Sebastian’s story introduced: loss of his father to suicide03:08 - Growing up in an “ideal” home that hid painful struggles03:36 - His father’s suicide at age six and its impact04:52 - Struggling with depression and isolation as a teen05:44 - The life-changing conversation with his father’s friend06:43 - Realization: he was not alone in his grief07:06 - Starting a pilgrimage to interview 40 of his father’s friends08:18 - Learning deeper lessons about life, identity, and success09:29 - The dangers of basing self-worth on external achievements10:28 - Sebastian’s chance to help another suicidal father12:11 - Visiting the same hospital where his father had died13:41 - Therapist’s perspective on self-worth and vulnerability15:41 - The importance of processing grief over a lifetime17:31 - The unique power of lived experience in suicide prevention20:09 - Recognizing self-worth even when you can’t see it yourself21:33 - The clarity Sebastian felt when sharing his truth with others22:01 - Closing reflections and message 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/

First responders are trained to run toward danger while the rest of us run away. But the weight of constant trauma, danger, and stress takes a toll. In this episode, former sheriff’s deputy Monica Quesnell shares her powerful story of battling depression while serving in law enforcement.We explore the staggering rates of suicide among first responders, the stigma that prevents many from seeking help, and why prioritizing mental health in these professions is literally a matter of life and death. Monica’s journey from despair to healing is an inspiring reminder that even the strongest among us need—and deserve—support.This episode is for anyone who works in high-stress frontline roles—or loves someone who does. Together, we can fight stigma, build resilience, and create a culture where asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.Link to Monica Quesnell's website: http://bespokehappiness.com/Primary Topics Covered:The impact of chronic stress and trauma on first responders’ mental healthAlarming statistics on suicide and depression in law enforcement, firefighters, and EMTsMonica’s personal journey: depression, law enforcement work, and finding healingWhy stigma keeps first responders from seeking mental health supportPractical tools and coping strategies Monica used to reclaim her lifeThe importance of awareness, peer support, and professional counselingEpisode Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction to the episode 01:01 – The link between chronic stress, trauma, and depression 02:18 – First responders’ unique mental health challenges 02:55 – Suicide rates among first responders 03:42 – Introducing guest Monica Quesnell 04:08 – Monica’s story: battling depression and finding purpose in law enforcement 05:13 – Starting counseling and the emotional impact of the job 06:57 – A traumatic case that shifted Monica’s perspective 08:14 – Witnessing suicide on duty and its lasting impact 09:43 – Choosing to leave law enforcement for her mental health 10:40 – Healing through biking, gardening, painting, and reconnecting with loved ones 12:27 – Coping strategies for “bad days” with depression 13:01 – A 2,400-mile bike ride to raise awareness for first responder mental health 13:57 – Monica’s advocacy work and Bespoke Happiness project 16:39 – Closing reflections: breaking stigma and supporting those on the front linesExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Season 3 of Giving Voice to Depression brought powerful, honest, and deeply human stories about living with and overcoming depression. From moments of despair on a London bridge to the healing found in college recovery, relationships, theater, and community support, each episode reminds us that talking openly about mental illness can break isolation and inspire hope.In this review episode, Bridget and Terri reflect on key lessons learned from Season 3—including the lifesaving impact of compassion, the power of listening, and how stigma continues to silence too many voices. Whether you’re living with depression, supporting someone who is, or seeking ways to reduce stigma in your community, this season’s stories offer connection, strength, and encouragement.Primary Topics Covered:The lifesaving role of empathy and compassion in moments of crisisBreaking stigma and empowering others by sharing lived experienceCollege student struggles with depression and hope for recoveryBuilding recovery through self-care and patience—“brick by brick”The intersection of race and mental health in Black communitiesCoping with depression during the holidays and beyondThe gift of listening and reflective communication in supportUsing storytelling, theater, and conversation to fight stigmaChildhood depression: warning signs and the importance of early helpHow stigma impacts relationships and depression disclosureTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction and purpose of the season review 01:00 – Stories of compassion and empathy: The man on the bridge 03:00 – Finding hope and recovery years later 04:30 – Kevin Briggs: The Guardian of the Golden Gate Bridge 05:25 – College depression and Justin’s story of recovery 06:25 – Building recovery brick by brick with Brent Williams 07:15 – Black Mental Health Matters with Philip Roundtree 08:00 – Depression, the holidays, and boundaries with Anita Sands 09:00 – The power of community support during crisis 10:00 – The gift of listening and reflective communication 11:30 – Starting the conversation with comedian Frank King 12:30 – Childhood depression and early intervention 13:30 – Ripple effects of storytelling and theater in fighting stigma 15:00 – A couple’s perspective: stigma, relationships, and depression 16:20 – Closing reflections and gratitude for 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/

College can be a time of growth and excitement, but for many students, it also brings stress, loneliness, and depression. In this episode, Justin shares his personal journey through the challenges of living with depression during his college years. From the early signs of struggle in adolescence to a crisis point in college, Justin’s story highlights the importance of awareness, support, and recovery.He opens up about the impact of isolation, the night he nearly ended his life, and how reaching out to his family and seeking treatment gave him a path forward. His honesty and resilience serve as a reminder that while depression can steal time and connection, healing and hope are possible.This conversation offers support not only for students but also for parents, friends, and educators who want to better understand and address the realities of college mental health.Primary Topics Covered:Understanding depression in college studentsThe link between academic pressure, loneliness, and mental healthJustin’s personal journey from adolescence into a college mental health crisisThe warning signs of depression and suicidal thinkingHow isolation worsens mental health strugglesThe role of family, therapy, and medication in recoveryMoving from a suicide attempt to hope and resilienceWhy sharing stories breaks stigma and builds connectionTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction to the episode 00:42 – Why college student mental health matters 02:05 – Justin’s early signs of depression in adolescence 03:14 – College life and the spiral of isolation 04:18 – Depression’s impact on friendships and academics 05:22 – Reaching a crisis point: the night Justin almost ended his life 06:41 – Opening up to his family and beginning the recovery process 07:52 – Treatment, therapy, and learning patience with medication 08:47 – Finding hope after surviving depression 09:35 – Lessons learned: resilience and perseverance in young adulthood 10:29 – The importance of connection and sharing stories 11:47 – Justin’s book Hell Has No Stars and closing 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 season review, we revisit the most impactful conversations from Season Five of Giving Voice to Depression. From learning how to ask for help when words feel impossible, to breaking myths about suicide, to understanding depression in men, every episode this season carried a message of courage, resilience, and hope.We also highlight groundbreaking approaches to treatment like genetic testing for antidepressants, and deeply personal stories about self-forgiveness, stigma, and the hidden "mask" many of us wear.This season reminded us that depression is not weakness, recovery is possible, and sharing stories can save lives.Primary Topics Covered:Why asking for help is harder than it sounds — and specific ways to do itSuicide prevention insights from experts and survivorsDebunking common myths about suicide and depressionMen’s mental health and reframing depression as strengthGenetic testing and personalized treatment for depressionSelf-forgiveness after a suicide attemptThe “mask” of depression — and the importance of removing itBuilding a supportive community through open conversationsTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction: Why season reviews matter 01:01 - How Giving Voice to Depression grew in Season Five 02:12 - The importance of normalizing mental health conversations 02:49 - Specific ways to ask for help with depression (Sam Dylan Finch) 06:04 - Suicide in the headlines: Anthony Bourdain & Kate Spade 06:39 - How the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline saves lives 08:00 - Breaking suicide myths with Mark Henick 10:19 - A survivor’s story of hope and recovery 11:30 - Genetic testing for personalized antidepressant treatment 13:48 - Men and depression: redefining masculinity and mental health 14:55 - Self-forgiveness after a suicide attempt 16:27 - The hidden “mask” of depression 17:33 - Why sharing personal stories reduces stigma 18:12 - What’s ahead in Season SixExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Many people with depression seem fine on the outside—successful, social, and “holding it together.” But behind the mask, they’re struggling. This episode explores high-functioning depression—what it looks like, why people hide their symptoms, and the dangers of masking mental illness.Our guest Andrew shares his deeply personal story of living with hidden depression, masking pain from family and friends, and what finally led him to reach out for help. He also describes how writing became a powerful tool for healing and authenticity.If you’ve ever wondered how someone can appear fine while battling depression—or if you’ve said “I’m fine” when you weren’t—this episode sheds light on the hidden truth and offers hope.Primary Topics Covered:What high-functioning depression really looks likeThe concept of masking and why people hide symptomsAndrew’s journey through suicidal thoughts and recoveryThe impact of stigma and stereotypes around mental illnessWhy masking may protect short-term but harms long-termThe role of writing, creativity, and authenticity in recoveryHow empathy and compassion can help people drop the maskTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction to today’s episode 00:59 – What it means to wear a “mask” with depression 03:24 – Andrew’s experience with hidden depression 04:32 – Reaching a breaking point and seeking help 05:22 – Treatment, medication, and coping strategies 06:01 – Balancing work, introversion, and masking 07:17 – The long-term dangers of masking depression 08:46 – Stigma, stereotypes, and misconceptions 09:16 – Why masking fuels darkness instead of healing 10:13 – Facing depression head-on instead of hiding 11:14 – The “1 in 5” mental health statistic in context 12:03 – Delays between symptoms and diagnosis 12:32 – Andrew’s blog on depression and authenticity 13:46 – Writing as a tool for expression and healing 15:08 – Public vs. private personas with mental health 15:32 – Common verbal masks: “I’m fine, just tired” 15:52 – Empathy and compassion help break the mask 16:19 – Closing reflection: hiding the bad hides the good tooExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/