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

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/

Forgiving yourself after a suicide attempt can feel impossible, even when loved ones have already offered their compassion and support. In this deeply moving episode, John shares his story of surviving a suicide attempt, the ongoing struggle with guilt and shame, and the difficulty of extending the same compassion to himself that he readily gives to others.We explore the emotional aftermath of a suicide attempt, the role of self-compassion in healing, and how recovery is often a non-linear journey. John’s honesty sheds light on the complexities of mental health recovery and offers hope to others facing the same challenges.This conversation is a reminder that you are not alone, forgiveness takes time, and healing is possible — even if it doesn’t come in a straight line.Link to article referenced: https://drmargaretrutherford.com/how-to-forgive-yourself-five-not-so-simple-but-important-steps/Primary Topics Covered:Why self-forgiveness is one of the hardest parts of recoveryThe impact of guilt, shame, and self-loathing after a suicide attemptHow loved ones can forgive — and why forgiving yourself can feel impossibleTools for building self-compassion and resilienceWhy recovery is non-linear and requires patienceThe importance of honest conversations in breaking stigma and promoting healingTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction and purpose of the podcast 01:01 – Why recovery is not simple or linear 02:16 – John’s story: suicide attempt and aftermath 03:25 – The burden of guilt, shame, and self-loathing 04:34 – A powerful moment: John’s son’s immediate forgiveness 05:26 – Why forgiving yourself feels harder than receiving forgiveness 06:59 – Therapy, psychiatry, and the search for self-compassion tools 09:09 – Guilt, shame, and self-loathing as barriers to healing 10:18 – Advice for other suicide attempt survivors 11:40 – Recovery as a process and the role of patience 13:00 – Shifting perspective: “not yet” instead of “can’t” 14:28 – How sharing stories can foster healing 15:48 – The role of positive self-talk and brain chemistry in recovery 16:20 – Practical self-forgiveness strategies and external resources 17:35 – Closing reflections, community, and support 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 powerful conversation, we sit down with Roro Asmar, a first-generation Lebanese-American chef, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate who opens up about his journey through depression, suicide attempts, and redefining what it means to be a man.Growing up in a culture that equated masculinity with toughness and silence, Roro was taught to “man up” and suppress his emotions. But ignoring his pain only deepened his depression and eventually led him to a breaking point. Today, he shares how acknowledging his struggles—and rejecting toxic definitions of manhood—has given him more strength than any performance of toughness ever could.This episode challenges the dangerous stigma men face when it comes to mental health and highlights how honesty, connection, and vulnerability can save lives.Whether you’re a man struggling with depression, a loved one trying to understand, or someone who wants to change how we talk about masculinity, this episode offers hope and courage.Primary Topics Covered:How childhood messages about masculinity can fuel depression in menWhy “man up” is one of the most harmful phrases for men’s mental healthThe connection between toxic masculinity and male suicide ratesRoro’s story of depression, suicide attempt, and recoveryRedefining masculinity through vulnerability, honesty, and emotional connectionHow open conversations can reduce stigma and literally save livesTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction: Men, depression, and stigma 01:19 – Why depression looks different for men 02:01 – Roro Asmar’s background and his article How Depression Made Me a Man 03:01 – Reading his story: masculinity, pain, and depression 07:30 – The mask of toughness and living as a “character” 09:14 – Suicide attempt and the breaking point 10:32 – Discovering depression as early as childhood 11:20 – What families and communities can do to help boys open up 12:27 – The dangers of isolation and lack of conversation 13:13 – Challenging stigma: “snowflake” and “sissy” labels 14:26 – Redefining strength and masculinity 15:22 – Why “man up” is one of the most damaging cultural messages 16:19 – Depression as pressing down pain and emotions 16:58 – The power of telling your story openly 18:04 – 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/

Struggling to find the right antidepressant can feel like an exhausting and hopeless cycle of trial and error. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we explore how genetic testing may help break that cycle by offering personalized insights into which medications are most likely to work for you.You’ll hear Megan’s powerful story of misdiagnosis, medication struggles, and eventual hope through genetic testing. We also speak with Dr. Dan Dowd, who explains how these DNA-based tools work, why they matter, and how they could transform depression treatment.If you or someone you love has ever wondered why antidepressants don’t seem to work—or feared running out of time while waiting for the right treatment—this conversation offers both validation and hope.Link to more information on GenoMind: https://genomind.com/the-genecept-assay/genetic-testing-better-depression-treatment/Primary Topics Covered:Why finding the right depression medication is so difficultThe toll of trial-and-error antidepressant prescribingMegan’s personal journey through misdiagnosis and failed medicationsHow genetic testing works to guide antidepressant choicesThe role of DNA in medication response and side effectsCosts, insurance coverage, and accessibility of genetic testingHow genetic insights can reduce stigma and validate lived experiencesExpanding potential use beyond depression (anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, ADHD, etc.)Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction: the struggle of finding effective depression treatment 01:08 – Listeners describe their frustration with trial-and-error medications 02:26 – Why 50% of first prescriptions fail and people lose hope 03:46 – Introducing genetic testing as a new tool for personalized treatment 04:12 – Megan’s story: battling depression, misdiagnosis, and bipolar disorder 06:19 – The exhausting cycle of trying 20 medications in one year 08:20 – Learning about genetic testing through online support communities 08:55 – How genetic testing works: cheek swab, metabolism, and response markers 10:30 – Why results validate patient experiences and reduce stigma 11:00 – Megan’s results confirm past medications were wrong for her 12:29 – Costs, insurance coverage, and patient assistance programs 13:17 – Megan explains why $300 is worth the investment 14:28 – Recovery, stability, and thriving with proper treatment 15:10 – Broader uses for genetic testing beyond depression 16:02 – Closing thoughts: the importance of hope and personalized careExplore 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, suicide attempt survivor Mark Henick shares his deeply personal journey through depression, anxiety, and repeated suicidal crises. Pulled back from the edge by a stranger, Mark transformed his pain into purpose—dedicating his life to breaking stigma, advocating for suicide prevention, and showing others that recovery is possible.Listeners will hear about the real-life struggles of living with depression, the harsh realities of stigma and ineffective systems, and—most importantly—the practical coping skills, resilience, and small steps that helped Mark reclaim his life. His story reminds us that recovery is not instant; it’s a gradual process of small wins, self-compassion, and persistence.Whether you live with depression yourself, love someone who struggles, or simply want to understand how to better support others, this episode provides both hope and concrete strategies.Link to Mark Henick's TED Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D1QoyTmeAYwPrimary Topics CoveredEarly experiences of depression and anxiety in childhoodStigma, misunderstanding, and inadequate mental health careSurviving multiple suicide attempts and the pivotal moment of being savedWhy hospitals are about safety, not long-term recoveryThe importance of teaching emotional skills early in lifeCoping with relapses and reframing them as normal—not failuresPractical strategies: medication, therapy, sleep, structure, and small daily actionsBuilding resilience through patience and the “slow accumulation of positives”Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction: Depression, stigma, and the power of shared stories02:30 - Childhood struggles with anxiety, depression, and misunderstood symptoms04:15 - Early suicide attempts, hospitalization, and the limits of acute psychiatric care06:45 - The night on the bridge—and the stranger who saved his life08:45 - Why early intervention and mental health education in schools matter11:20 - Relapse as part of recovery: accepting setbacks without shame13:30 - Coping strategies that work: medication, therapy, sleep, structure, and awareness15:45 - Patience, persistence, and the power of perspective in recovery17:15 - Self-stigma vs. acceptance: reframing depression as a chronic but manageable illness19:45 - 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 episode, mental health advocate Mark Henick joins us to challenge the most common myths and misconceptions about suicide. Drawing from his lived experience and his globally renowned TED Talk “Why We Choose Suicide”, Mark explains why stigma, misinformation, and silence prevent people from getting the help they need.We tackle harmful beliefs such as “suicide is selfish,” “you can’t stop someone who wants to die,” and “it comes out of nowhere,” and instead reveal the real warning signs, the truth about suicidal thoughts, and how anyone can play a role in suicide prevention.This is a candid, compassionate, and practical conversation for anyone who has been touched by suicide or wants to better understand how to support those struggling.If you’ve ever wondered what’s true, what’s false, and how you can make a difference, this episode is for you.Primary Topics Covered:Why suicide myths persist and how they harm prevention effortsThe difference between wanting to die vs. wanting to end emotional painWhy calling suicide “selfish” is not only wrong but harmfulThe real warning signs that often go unnoticedHow stigma and silence make it harder for people to reach outWhy prior suicide attempts must always be taken seriouslyHow empathy, listening, and connection can save livesTimestamps:00:54 – Suicide in the headlines and rising rates 02:26 – Mark Henick introduces suicide myths and misconceptions 03:02 – Do suicidal people really want to die? 03:50 – Is suicide selfish? Mark’s personal perspective 05:11 – Survivor guilt and why loved ones often miss the signs 06:39 – The myth of “out of the blue” suicides 07:50 – Recognizing subtle warning signs 08:37 – Is suicide impulsive? The truth about planning and triggers 09:58 – Why prior attempts must always be taken seriously 10:58 – Are people “just seeking attention”? 12:21 – Can you really stop someone from dying by suicide? 13:50 – Why conversations and connection matter 14:51 – Mark’s message: You have more power than you think to build a better lifeExplore 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 launch of the 988 Suicide Prevention Hotline marks a historic step forward in mental health crisis care in the United States. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Terri and Dr. Anita Sands talk with Dr. John Draper, Director of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, about what this change means, how it works, and why reaching out can truly make a difference.Listeners will learn what happens when you call 988, the science behind crisis intervention, and why you don’t have to be actively suicidal to use the lifeline. Dr. Draper also shares five key steps for supporting someone in crisis — from asking direct questions to helping them feel safe, connected, and cared for.If you or someone you love is struggling, this episode will show you why calling 988 could be a life-saving decision.Primary Topics Covered:What 988 is and why it matters for suicide prevention.Common misconceptions about crisis hotlines.How trained crisis counselors help de-escalate suicidal thoughts.The importance of empathy and human connection in mental health.Five steps you can take to support someone in crisis.Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction: Why the launch of 988 is historic 01:10 – What 988 is and how it works 02:16 – Concerns about demand overwhelming the system 03:02 – Research showing crisis lines save lives 04:15 – Interview with Dr. John Draper, Director of the Lifeline 05:24 – Who calls the hotline? (Only 25% are suicidal) 06:33 – Why talking to someone changes brain function in crisis 07:55 – How crisis counselors de-escalate risk 09:16 – What to expect when you call 988 11:14 – Why you’re not alone in suicidal thoughts 12:20 – Survivors share that life can get better 13:29 – Crisis as an opportunity for change 15:18 – Five steps to support someone in crisis 16:53 – Why human connection is the strongest prevention tool 17:37 – Bringing in additional support systems 18:23 – Using 988 even if you’re not suicidal 19:22 – Final reflections: hope, connection, and why reaching out mattersLink to Suicide Prevention Lifeline sitehttps://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/Link to #BeThe1To site: https://www.bethe1to.comExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/