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

When 14-year-old Maddie died by suicide, her father Chris Coulter’s world shattered. In this deeply personal conversation, Chris shares his family’s story — from recognizing the first signs of Maddie’s depression to navigating multiple suicide attempts, hospitalization, and finally, unbearable loss.Chris also speaks vulnerably about his own struggle with depression and suicidal thoughts in the years after his daughter’s death, offering rare insight into how pain, shame, and silence can compound suffering. Together with Dr. Anita Sanz and co-host Terry, this episode examines how parents can better recognize warning signs, support their children, and continue to show up even when kids push them away.This is not just a story of loss, but also of advocacy, resilience, and the importance of breaking silence around teen mental health.Chris Coulter's website/resources:  https://www.thefinishlinegroup.com/wake-up-resource-guideSimon Sinek's "Do You Have 8 Minutes?" video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2lH6x5zn0GIPrimary Topics Covered:The signs of depression that Chris noticed in his daughter MaddieHow multiple suicide attempts affected the familyThe role of kindness and empathy in Maddie’s short lifeChris’s own struggle with depression and suicidal thoughts after her deathWhy depression can feel impossible to explain to those who haven’t experienced itThe impact of shame and silence in worsening suicidal thoughtsHow parents can continue showing up for their children, even when pushed awayPractical advice on checking in, persistence, and creating “S.O.S. codes” for supportWhy emotional intelligence and mental health education in schools are essentialTimestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to the episode and today’s guest 01:26 – Global statistics on teen mental health and suicide 02:26 – Chris Coulter introduces his daughter, Maddie 03:50 – Maddie’s struggles with depression and early warning signs 04:44 – Multiple suicide attempts and psychiatric hospitalization 05:52 – Maddie’s kindness, even in the hospital setting 06:46 – Maddie’s final suicide attempt at 14 07:11 – Chris describes the impact on parents and his own depression 08:17 – Why depression is difficult to explain to others 08:52 – Chris shares his own suicidal thoughts years later 09:42 – The darkest period of Chris’s depression 10:22 – Shame and silence in not reaching out for help 10:51 – Why suicidal thoughts can take hold so quickly 11:27 – Gratitude, burden, and the risks of feeling like loved ones are “better off” without you 12:53 – Chris reflects on what Maddie may have been thinking before her death 13:26 – Choosing to be vulnerable and reach out after loss 14:39 – Insights from Dr. Sanz on parental grief and understanding depression 15:42 – How to support someone who pushes away help 17:04 – Strategies for persistence: checking in and following up 18:54 – Challenging the belief that “no one cares” 19:34 – Simon Sinek’s “Do You Have Eight Minutes?” S.O.S. support code 21:22 – Next week’s continuation of Chris’s story and advocacy for school programsExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Recovery from depression isn’t about quick fixes—it’s about gathering the right tools, managing daily triggers, and finding small wins that keep you moving forward.In this honest and metaphor-rich conversation, Davey shares what it’s like to live with depression and anxiety, and how he learned to cope after hitting rock bottom. From discovering “tools for a time” to reframing intrusive thoughts and recognizing depression as a legitimate illness, his story highlights both the struggle and the hope of recovery.With humor, compassion, and honesty, this episode reminds us that while depression may feel like a constant battle, recovery is possible—one small step at a time.Primary Topics Covered:Depression recovery as an ongoing fight, not a quick cureDavey’s personal story of hitting the wall with depression and anxietyWhy coping tools work differently at different timesThe role of small wins in building momentum for recoveryThe exhaustion of intrusive thoughts and daily mental triggersUnderstanding depression as a real illness, not a personal weaknessUsing metaphors to explain the invisible weight of depressionWhy advice like “just snap out of it” often backfiresBecoming a “student of your illness” through therapy and self-awarenessWhy acceptance and persistence are essential for long-term recoveryTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction: Davey’s story of depression and survival  02:06 – Redefining yourself after depression changes your life  03:00 – Hitting the wall: exhaustion, anxiety, and racing thoughts  04:11 – Work ethic vs. the weight of depression  05:20 – Celebrating small wins to create momentum  06:11 – “Tools for a time”: why different tools work in different seasons  07:15 – The chainsaw metaphor: clogged machinery and depression  08:23 – Speaking openly about depression for the first time  08:59 – Why some advice feels impossible to act on  10:55 – Becoming a student of your illness with therapy and notes  11:34 – Depression as a legitimate illness, not a weakness  13:44 – Managing anxiety to reduce depression triggers  14:38 – Daily struggles: magnifying small issues into catastrophes  15:20 – Giving back and finding purpose in small ways  15:57 – Why depression is still a winnable battle  16:30 – Building a personal toolbox for recovery  17:40 – Becoming more compassionate through lived experience  18:27 – Final reflections: acceptance, persistence, and hope  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/

What if managing depression didn’t always mean medication?In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Rena Shoshana Forester shares her deeply personal story of healing through a holistic approach. From meditation and yoga to breathwork, focusing, and creative expression, she found effective ways to manage her depression without antidepressants.Rena opens up about learning from her grandmother’s and father’s struggles, navigating her own darkest moments, and discovering how mind-body practices could help her build resilience and reclaim joy. Her journey is a powerful reminder that while every recovery path looks different, exploring alternative tools can open doors to healing.This conversation offers validation, encouragement, and practical strategies for anyone wondering if holistic approaches might complement or support their depression management.Link to Rena's website: https://www.renashoshana.com/Primary Topics Covered:How family experiences shaped Rena’s early understanding of depressionFirst encounters with depression in college and abroadMeditation, yoga, and breathwork as tools for mental healthProcessing trauma through focusing and creative expressionWhy she chose not to take antidepressants and how she worked with a psychiatristViewing depression as an emotion to learn from, not only fight againstHow acceptance and self-compassion play a role in long-term recoveryLessons for families in talking openly about mental healthTimestamps: 00:00 – Introduction by Terry and Dr. Anita 01:26 – Rena’s early exposure to depression through her family 03:22 – First experiences of depression during college and abroad 04:26 – Turning to meditation and learning from her father’s example 05:23 – The impact of therapy and initial resistance to antidepressants 06:35 – Discovering yoga, breathwork, and creative practices as healing tools 07:27 – Using focusing to process emotional and physical pain 08:16 – Decision with psychiatrist: medication not necessary 09:00 – Dark thoughts and physical heaviness of depression 10:06 – Motorcycle accident trauma and unprocessed pain 11:27 – Choosing to view depression as an emotion to learn from 12:32 – Building a relationship with depression instead of fighting it 13:22 – The importance of professional help in supporting inward work 14:11 – Reflections from Dr. Anita and Terry on lessons from Rena’s story 20:06 – Closing thoughts and encouragement for listenersExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

What happens when depression, addiction, and suicidal thoughts collide?In this candid episode, comedian and rapper Zane Thomas shares how he talks back to the “bully” in his head, finds relief in humor, and navigates the ups and downs of bipolar disorder and substance use. With refreshing honesty, Zane opens up about sobriety, relapse, and how conversations—both online and in person—can provide lifesaving support.This episode is a reminder that recovery isn’t about perfection. It’s about connection, resilience, and learning to keep trying—even when depression tells you not to.Link to Zane's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zanetherapper/Primary Topics Covered:Depression’s repeating negative thoughts and how to “talk back”Using humor as a coping tool during depressive episodesThe role of online communities in providing supportBipolar disorder and the challenges of internal vs. external triggersThe power of the word “yet” in recovery and self-compassionHow addiction and substance abuse interact with mental healthZane’s experience with crystal meth, alcohol, and recovery setbacksWhy offering support before a crisis mattersReframing the way we talk about suicide and stigmaTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction and podcast mission  02:27 – Why Zane Thomas’ voice stood out on social media  03:51 – Helping a suicidal friend by asking better questions  05:05 – Talking back to depression’s repetitive thoughts  06:42 – Seeing depression as a bully we can challenge  07:31 – Humor as a coping tool in the darkest moments  09:21 – The role of online communities and support groups  09:48 – External vs. internal triggers of depression  11:20 – The power of the word “yet” in recovery  12:25 – How mental health challenges shaped Zane’s art  13:17 – Substance use, coping, and losing a friend  14:18 – Alcohol, bipolar disorder, and emotional volatility  15:38 – Addiction as a gamble with mental health  16:43 – Why speaking openly reduces shame and stigma  17:44 – The best question to ask someone struggling: “What are you excited for?”  18:29 – The importance of real, judgment-free conversations  19:25 – Language matters: why we say “died by suicide” instead of “committed”  20:04 – Closing reflections and reminder to keep trying  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/

Uncertainty has become part of daily life — and it can take a heavy toll on our mental health. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Dr. Anita Sanz and co-host Terry McGuire discuss realistic, evidence-based strategies for managing stress, protecting your mental health, and finding moments of calm when life feels unpredictable.From taking intentional breaks and limiting media consumption to strengthening supportive connections and seeking help early, these practical tools can help you manage stress without adding pressure. Whether you’re navigating the New Year or simply struggling to get through each day, this conversation offers grounded advice and hope.Primary Topics Covered:Why uncertain times increase stress and anxietyThe link between unpredictability and worsening depression symptomsPractical, no-cost habits for everyday mental health careThe importance of taking intentional breaks to reset your brainHow to limit media overload and overstimulationBuilding supportive, meaningful connectionsThe role of online communities and peer supportWhy seeking help early can prevent a crisisShifting from rigid resolutions to compassionate self-careTimestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to the episode 01:27 – Why uncertainty amplifies stress and anxiety 03:18 – Simple, no-cost strategies that really work 06:23 – The importance of intentional daily breaks 10:02 – Reframing breaks as maintenance, not laziness 11:04 – Setting limits on media and information overload 13:45 – Finding small, daily habits that bring joy 15:20 – How supportive connections protect mental health 17:52 – Virtual communities and online support 18:13 – Why it’s crucial to seek help before crisis hits 20:04 – How early intervention prevents worsening symptoms 22:06 – Rethinking resolutions for better mental health 23:31 – Closing 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/

For many, the holidays bring joy, connection, and celebration. But for others, they can be some of the hardest days of the year. If you’re struggling with grief, loneliness, or depression this Christmas, this short episode is for you.Author John Pavlovitz reads his heartfelt essay “To Those Who Struggle This Christmas,” offering words of comfort, understanding, and solidarity for anyone feeling heavy, disconnected, or broken during a season that often demands cheerfulness.You are not alone. These words are a reminder that your story is not over, your pain is valid, and brighter days can still come.Link to John's essay:https://johnpavlovitz.com/2017/12/24/to-those-who-struggle-this-christmas/Primary Topics Covered:Why the holidays can feel especially painful when living with depressionGrief, loss, and the weight of empty chairs at the tableThe impact of loneliness and separation during ChristmasDepression, addiction, and inner struggles heightened by the seasonHow societal expectations of joy can worsen feelings of isolationFinding comfort in knowing others share your painA reminder that this moment is not the end of your storyEncouragement to receive the holidays as they are, without guiltTimestamps: 00:00 – Introduction by Anita and Terry 00:42 – Invitation to community support on the GVTD Facebook group 01:16 – John Pavlovitz begins reading his essay “To Those Who Struggle This Christmas” 02:10 – Acknowledging grief, loss, and broken relationships during the holidays 03:15 – The added weight of depression, addiction, and personal demons 04:20 – Reminders that you are not alone in your struggle 05:30 – Encouragement that this is not the end of your story 05:52 – Closing reflections from Anita and Terry 06:05 – Final encouragement: speak up if you’re struggling, and listen if someone else isExplore 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 often portrayed as the “happiest time of year,” but for many living with grief and depression, they can be especially painful. In this episode, grief expert Krista St-Germain joins hosts Terry and Dr. Anita Sanz to discuss the overlap between grief and depression, how loss changes holiday traditions, and strategies for navigating family expectations while honoring your own needs.Listeners will gain practical tools for setting boundaries, managing difficult emotions, and giving themselves permission to rewrite traditions that no longer feel supportive. This is an honest and compassionate conversation for anyone struggling during the holiday season.Primary Topics Covered:The difference and overlap between grief and depressionHow holiday traditions can trigger feelings of loss, sadness, and anxietyWhy grief is about more than bereavement—loss of dreams, opportunities, health, or identity count tooPractical communication strategies for setting boundaries with loved onesHow to deal with conflicting family needs and expectationsManaging internal pressure, “should thinking,” and anticipatory dreadKrista’s NOW method (Name, Open, Witness) for processing emotionsThe role of self-compassion and boundaries in coping with holiday griefTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to the podcast and today’s topic01:44 - Why holidays can intensify grief and depression04:10 - The overlap and differences between grief and depression06:26 - Grief beyond bereavement: lost dreams, health, opportunities08:50 - The unrealistic pressure of “the happiest season of all”09:16 - Rewriting holiday traditions and giving yourself permission10:20 - Communicating your needs to family and friends12:18 - Balancing different needs within a household13:05 - “Should thinking” and the trap of self-imposed expectations13:36 - Anticipatory grief and dreading upcoming events15:20 - The NOW method (Name, Open, Witness) for feeling emotions17:46 - Handling resistance from others and setting boundaries18:02 - Choosing whose disappointment matters most (self vs. others)19:35 - Boundaries and the discomfort of breaking people-pleasing habits20:40 - Grieving lost dreams, hopes, and opportunities21:51 - Naming and witnessing emotions as a mindful practice22:47 - Learning that it’s okay if others are disappointed23:38 - Giving others permission to feel disappointment without conflict25:24 - Why grief and depression are misunderstood and stigmatized26:19 - EFT tapping and other tools for emotional regulation27:17 - Closing thoughts and holiday 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/

The holidays can be joyful, but for many, they bring stress, exhaustion, and even deeper struggles with depression. Increased expectations, disrupted routines, financial strain, and complicated family dynamics can make December feel overwhelming instead of uplifting.In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Dr. Anita Sanz and co-host Terry McGuire share practical mental health strategies that actually help. From setting boundaries and creating “buffer days” to reimagining traditions and using a playful “holiday bingo card,” you’ll hear real-world tips to manage stress, protect your well-being, and even find moments of joy.If you’ve ever felt the weight of family gatherings, financial pressures, or loneliness during the holidays, this conversation is for you.Primary Topics Covered:Why holiday stress often worsens depression symptomsThe impact of high expectations and energy demandsFamily tensions, estrangement, and self-protection strategiesFinancial pressure and its effect on mental healthHow disrupted sleep, routines, and self-care increase stressThe importance of simplifying expectationsUsing “holiday bingo” to cope with difficult interactionsWhy scheduling a “buffer day” mattersCoping with grief and loss during the holidaysFinding personal meaning and connection when celebrating aloneTimestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to the episode and its purpose 02:17 – Why holidays trigger stress and depression 03:34 – The weight of expectations and fatigue 04:21 – Family gatherings, estrangement, and difficult dynamics 05:25 – Financial struggles and post-holiday fallout 06:30 – Disrupted sleep, routines, and self-care habits 07:01 – Simplifying expectations for healthier holidays 07:23 – Becoming a co-creator of your holiday experience 08:26 – Coping with loneliness and solo celebrations 09:43 – Honoring traditions while redefining the holidays 11:05 – Grief and loss during the holiday season 12:13 – The “holiday bingo” card strategy 13:43 – Shifting dread into humor and resilience 15:20 – Setting firm limits with family commitments 15:56 – Why “buffer days” are essential after gatherings 16:30 – Self-respect and energy protection during holidays 17:01 – 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/

Depression often convinces us to stay silent, but silence can keep us stuck.In this powerful conversation, Lystra shares her experience as a young mother navigating exhaustion, intrusive thoughts, and shame while living with depression. She opens up about the turning point when hearing someone else’s vulnerable story helped her realize she needed help—and gave her the courage to ask for it.Together with co-hosts Terry McGuire and Dr. Anita Sanz, Lystra explores the energy it takes to suppress intrusive thoughts, the stigma of medication, and the transformative relief that comes when we allow ourselves to be vulnerable. This episode is a reminder that sharing our struggles not only helps us heal, but also creates safe spaces for others.Primary Topics Covered:Why vulnerability is a gift in depression recoveryLystra’s story of postpartum depression and intrusive thoughtsThe hidden exhaustion of suppressing suicidal thinkingHow hearing another person’s story helped her seek helpStigma and shame around needing medicationThe surprising relief of starting antidepressantsHow lived experience bridges the gap beyond checklistsThe importance of safe spaces for mental health conversationsTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction: Why vulnerability is a powerful gift  02:21 – Meeting Lystra: embracing the beginning of recovery  03:15 – Realizing something was wrong: exhaustion and emptiness  05:19 – Postpartum depression and intrusive suicidal thoughts  06:37 – The hidden energy cost of suppressing dark thoughts  07:27 – Depression’s impact on relationships and family life  08:34 – Hearing another person’s depression story for the first time  09:47 – Recognizing dangerous thoughts and why support matters  11:19 – Finally seeking medical help and receiving a diagnosis  13:10 – Considering antidepressants vs. birth control  14:00 – Stigma and shame around taking medication  15:03 – The powerful shift after the first dose of medication  17:57 – Talking openly and discovering friends’ hidden struggles  18:53 – The importance of normalizing conversations about help  20:18 – Learning to be a safe space for yourself and others  21:54 – Final reflections: depression as a full-time job to suppress  23:38 – Closing thoughts: why lived experience saves lives  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/

Too often, children grow up surrounded by silence when it comes to mental health. Without words for what they see or feel, kids may blame themselves, feel isolated, or miss the signs of depression altogether.In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, TJ, a father living with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD, shares why he chose to have an open, honest conversation with his young son about mental illness. From breaking stigma at home to teaching emotional expression, TJ’s story highlights why starting mental health conversations early matters — and how they can save lives.This episode also underscores the importance of mental health education in families and schools so that children grow up with tools to recognize symptoms, seek help, and support others.Link to resources on depression in children:  https://www.webmd.com/depression/qa/what-are-signs-and-symptoms-of-depression-in-childrenhttps://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14938-depression-in-childrenhttps://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/depression-in-childrenPrimary Topics Covered:Why talking about mental health with kids reduces stigmaThe challenges of recognizing depression in childrenHow depression and family history increase risk in kidsTJ’s story of living with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSDThe dangers of untreated depression and suicidal thoughtsWhy medication and therapy matter — and the risks of stopping treatmentParenting while struggling with mental illnessHow TJ transformed his pain into open conversations with his sonThe role of schools and families in normalizing mental health educationWhy early conversations help kids understand, cope, and support othersTimestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to the episode and podcast mission 01:40 – Why depression in children often goes unrecognized 02:52 – Signs of depression in children and teens 03:25 – Guest TJ introduces himself and his story 04:42 – Early struggles with depression and avoidance of treatment 05:15 – Suicidal thoughts and seeking professional help 05:51 – The medication cycle and stopping treatment 06:36 – Personal crises, overdoses, and hospitalizations 07:19 – Parenting with depression and its impact on children 08:06 – Why TJ chose to speak openly with his son 09:25 – Normalizing feelings and reducing shame in children 10:29 – A powerful father–son conversation about emotions 11:30 – Explaining depression to a child without fear or stigma 12:31 – His son’s reaction and acceptance 13:19 – Why mental health talks must be ongoing, not one-time 14:44 – Balancing honesty with protecting a child from overwhelm 14:59 – Why parents must be willing to listen when kids share 15:59 – Teaching kids early to fight stigma and normalize care 16:34 – Why focusing on children’s mental health is essential 18:40 – Final reflections from the hostsExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/