Giving Voice to Depression

Season Four of Giving Voice to Depression brought together powerful stories of lived experience, resilience, and hope. In this reflective episode, co-hosts explore the most impactful conversations, lessons learned, and the importance of sharing stories to break stigma.Whether you’re navigating depression yourself, supporting a loved one, or simply seeking understanding, this episode revisits moments that can inspire connection, compassion, and healing.Primary Topics Covered:The role of storytelling in breaking mental health stigmaKey insights from Season Four guests about depression and recoveryThe importance of empathy, compassion, and listeningHow different people describe what depression feels likeThe ripple effects of opening up and speaking honestlyCo-host reflections on their own learning from interviewsEncouragement to continue difficult but necessary conversationsTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction and framing of Season Four 02:18 - Why sharing real stories matters in fighting stigma 06:05 - Memorable guest moments and powerful takeaways 12:47 - Reflections on the diversity of depression experiences 18:22 - What listeners and hosts learned together this season 23:15 - The ripple effect of open, honest conversations 27:40 - Final reflections and hope moving forwardExplore 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, Travis Pipes shares the story of how reaching out for help at his darkest moment saved his life. Struggling with bipolar disorder, addiction, and homelessness, Travis found himself standing on the edge of despair, ready to end his life. But one phone call—and the compassion of someone who listened—changed everything.Now in recovery and living a life of meaning, Travis reflects on how support, treatment, and sobriety helped him rebuild. He also shares how he has turned his lived experience into mental health advocacy, helping others understand the power of connection and suicide prevention.This episode is a reminder that you are not alone and that reaching out can truly save lives.Primary Topics Covered:Living with bipolar disorder and addictionThe link between homelessness, despair, and suicidal thoughtsHow a single phone call prevented a suicide attemptThe power of compassionate listening in saving livesSteps toward recovery: treatment, therapy, and sobrietyTurning pain into purpose through mental health advocacySuicide prevention resources and the importance of reaching outTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction to Travis Pipes and his story 01:00 – Early success and the beginning of struggles with mental health 02:20 – Bipolar disorder, addiction, and decline into homelessness 03:30 – Hitting rock bottom and contemplating suicide 04:30 – The desperate phone call in San Francisco 05:30 – Kevin’s compassion and the life-saving conversation 06:30 – Entering treatment and beginning recovery 07:30 – Therapy, diagnosis, and finding sobriety 08:30 – Rebuilding life and becoming a mental health advocate 09:30 – How sharing lived experience helps prevent suicide 10:30 – Closing reflections and resources for supportExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Milwaukee TV anchor Ted Perry shares his personal story of living with depression, breaking years of silence about his struggles. Ted opens up about the early signs he ignored, the stigma that kept him quiet, and the turning point when therapy and treatment gave him hope.Through candid reflections, Ted talks about grief, self-worth, and how depression impacted his personal and professional life. He also highlights the importance of protective factors like exercise, pets, and faith.This conversation is not just about one man’s experience—it’s a reminder that sharing openly about mental health can create ripples of hope and healing for others.Primary Topics Covered:Why stigma keeps people silent about depressionTed’s first steps toward therapy and treatmentThe role of grief, loss, and life transitions in triggering depressionHow antidepressants and therapy helped him rebuild stabilityProtective factors: exercise, pets, faith, and community supportThe cost of staying silent—relationships, time, and self-worthThe hope and resilience that come from speaking outTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction to the “Ripple Report” series 01:23 – Ted Perry shares why he chose to speak publicly about depression 03:11 – Early signs of depression during college years 03:53 – A friend encourages Ted to try therapy for the first time 05:08 – The power of talking and his first therapy breakthrough 05:38 – Returning to therapy after his father’s death 06:18 – Depression disguised as “being sick” at work 07:22 – Accepting depression and finding the right treatment 08:13 – Medication as part of his depression toolbox 09:04 – Building protective factors: exercise, pets, and faith 09:21 – Depression steals hope, and why it’s critical to hold onto it 10:38 – Lessons learned: wasted time, relationships, and stigma 12:11 – Regret about hiding depression and pushing people away 13:09 – How stigma leads to silence and lost opportunities 14:22 – Closing reflections and a 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/

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, musician Matt Steady opens up about his first experience with depression, how he spent years in the fog before recognizing it, and the surprising way he found his path out—through music and creativity.Matt shares his personal journey of hiding his pain, learning to recognize the signs, and ultimately reclaiming control through songwriting. He also discusses his song “Black Dog,” inspired by Winston Churchill’s famous metaphor for depression, and why creating art can provide hope, healing, and empowerment for those battling mental illness.Whether you’re looking for practical coping strategies or inspiration from lived experience, this conversation shows that recovery is possible—and creativity can be a powerful ally in mental health.Link to Matt Steady's website: www.mattsteady.comPrimary Topics Covered:The challenges of recognizing depression when you’re living in it.What depression “fog” feels like and how it impacts daily life.Why many people hide their symptoms and don’t talk about depression.The role of creativity and music in managing depression.Matt’s song “Black Dog” and the symbolism behind it.How reclaiming control through art can help recovery.A message of hope: depression can lift, and healing is possible.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to the episode and hosts Bridget & Terri 01:26 - Introducing guest Matt Steady and his music 02:29 - Why Matt reluctantly chose to share his story 03:34 - First experience with depression at age 30 04:58 - What living in the depression “fog” felt like 05:44 - Signs of depression visible in old photos 06:31 - Why labeling depression matters for seeking help 07:11 - Blaming others vs. realizing it was internal 07:46 - How Matt would approach depression differently now 08:23 - Turning to music as a way out of depression 09:56 - Creativity as a form of control and healing 10:22 - How music interrupted depression’s repetitive thoughts 10:47 - Writing “Black Dog” as a revenge song against depression 11:47 - Matt’s message of hope: recovery is possible 12:30 - Closing reflections and thanksExplore 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 heartfelt episode, we hear from Becca, who lives with bipolar disorder, and her husband Joe, who has been her partner and primary support for nearly two decades. Together, they share the highs and lows of navigating marriage while facing the challenges of mental illness, including depression, mania, hospitalization, and recovery.Their story highlights the power of honest communication, unconditional love, and resilience. Joe offers insight into how partners can support without trying to “fix,” while Becca explains what she has learned about expressing her struggles and protecting her relationship.Listeners will walk away with practical advice for supporting a loved one with mental health challenges, the importance of healthy boundaries, and the reminder that strong relationships are built on understanding, compassion, and mutual respect.Link to Rebecca Lombardo's website: https://www.rebeccalombardo.com/Primary Topics Covered:The realities of living with bipolar disorder and depression in a marriage.Overcoming fear and stigma when first learning about a partner’s diagnosis.The importance of open communication in relationships affected by mental illness.Why partners should focus on support, not fixing.The value of boundaries, respect, and compassion for both people in the relationship.Lessons Becca and Joe have learned after nearly 17 years of marriage.Timestamps:00:45 – Introducing the episode and its focus on relationships and mental health 01:22 – Becca’s diagnosis of bipolar disorder and Joe’s role as her support 01:43 – Why they chose to share their story after 17 years of marriage 02:23 – Joe on fear, ignorance, and choosing to love beyond diagnosis 03:23 – What Joe sees in Becca beyond her illness 04:29 – Becca shares her suicide attempt and hospitalization 05:23 – Joe describes the trauma of her forced commitment 06:23 – The role of communication during difficult times 07:45 – Why people with depression don’t need fixing, just listening 08:37 – Joe’s lesson: supporting without trying to solve everything 09:04 – Asking “What can I do?” even when no fix exists 10:19 – Navigating conflicts, forgiveness, and real-life challenges 10:59 – Boundaries and respect in supporting a partner 11:31 – Why communication remains the foundation of their relationship 12:44 – Their advocacy on social media and #KeepTalkingMH 13:22 – Lessons of resilience, empathy, and compassion from lived experience 14:47 – The value of honesty and boundaries, even in public advocacy 15:04 – Closing thoughts and gratitude to Becca and JoeExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Depression is devastating—but it can also change the way we see ourselves and the world. In this episode, UK mental health advocate Tom Wavre shares the surprising lessons he has learned from living with depression. From discovering inner strength to challenging stigma, Tom reframes his experience into one of growth, empathy, and resilience.If you’re struggling, this conversation offers hope and perspective: you are not alone, and healing—while difficult—is possible.Primary Topics Covered:Self-awareness and understanding personal triggersThe reality of stigma—internal and externalThe power of opening up about mental healthRecognizing strength in surviving depressionCommunity, empathy, and helping othersTurning depression into a source of resilience and advocacyTimestamps:00:40 – Why everyone’s depression story is unique but connected 01:30 – Introducing Tom Wavre and his article Eight Ways I’m Grateful for My Depression 02:48 – Making meaning from suffering: finding positivity in pain 03:17 – Lesson 1: Knowing yourself more deeply through depression 04:00 – Lesson 2: Understanding the true nature of stigma 05:27 – Lesson 3: The importance of opening up 06:39 – Lesson 4: Discovering unexpected inner strength 08:13 – Lesson 5: Realizing you’re not alone 09:22 – Lesson 6: Developing empathy through struggle 09:36 – Lesson 7: Helping others through lived experience 10:34 – Lesson 8: Becoming a stronger, more compassionate person 12:17 – The possibility of recovery, even when it feels impossible 14:29 – Tom’s advocacy work and resources for mental healthExplore 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 wrongly associate depression with weakness—but psychiatrist Dr. Tim Cantopher argues the opposite. In this episode, he shares insights from treating thousands of patients and explains why depression often affects those who are strong, responsible, and caring.We explore his idea of the “curse of the strong,” how perfectionism and putting others first can increase risk, and why reframing depression as a strength-based condition can be life-changing.If you’ve ever felt that depression made you “weak,” this conversation offers a powerful new perspective of hope, balance, and self-compassion.Link to Dr. Cantopher's book if you're interested in learning more: https://www.amazon.com/Depressive-Illness-Strong-Overcoming-Problems/dp/1847092357Primary Topics Covered:Why depression often affects the strongest, most responsible people.Traits common among people with depression (sensitivity, diligence, reliability).The dangers of ignoring your own needs while caring for others.Biological explanations of depression as a “blown fuse” in the brain.The importance of balance: self-care vs. caring for others.Three life questions that can reduce depression relapse.How to stop being your own harshest critic.Why depression must be treated with the same seriousness as physical illness.Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction to Giving Voice to Depression and community reflections 01:42 – Dr. Tim Cantopher: Why depression is the “curse of the strong” 03:18 – Common traits among people with depression 04:14 – Why high-responsibility people are most vulnerable 05:13 – Reframing depression as strength, not weakness 06:02 – Different types of depression and what his model explains 07:02 – How focusing only on others’ needs fuels depression 08:21 – The “blown fuse” model: stress and brain chemistry 09:09 – Three key questions to reduce relapse risk 10:13 – Low self-esteem and not knowing your worth 11:38 – How self-criticism worsens depression 12:45 – Accepting depression as a real illness, like pneumonia 13:25 – Gradual recovery: the stress fracture analogy 14:11 – Building resilience and preventing future episodes 14:54 – The importance of pacing, balance, and self-kindness 16:02 – Reflections from Bridget and Terry on applying his lessons 17:28 – Closing thoughts and reminder to speak up or 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/

Childhood is often seen as carefree, but for some children, trauma and depression shatter that innocence far too soon. In this deeply personal episode, a mother and her young son open up about their painful journey through early-onset depression, bullying, and the trauma inflicted by an abusive authority figure.Their story sheds light on how childhood trauma can impact mental health, the challenges of getting others (including educators and even doctors) to believe a child’s pain, and the life-saving importance of listening, advocacy, and support.Through honesty and courage, this family hopes to help others recognize childhood depression early, understand its connection to trauma, and bring more compassion to the way we respond to kids in crisis.Primary Topics Covered:What childhood depression really looks like and why it’s often dismissedThe role of bullying and abuse from authority figures in triggering traumaThe importance of listening to children instead of trying to “fix” themHow adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) affect brain and body developmentAdvocacy as a parent: trusting instincts, seeking help, and pushing for answersA child’s own perspective on living with depression and what peers and adults need to knowTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction and framing the issue of childhood depression 01:08 - Childhood trauma: prevalence and impact 01:25 - Susie shares her son Nicholas’s early struggles with depression 02:11 - Why childhood depression is often dismissed or misunderstood 03:23 - A devastating school incident and the role of a harmful principal 04:19 - Nicholas recalls his experience of abuse and loss of trust 05:55 - Diagnosis: major depression, PTSD-like symptoms, OCD, and anxiety 06:47 - Suicidal thoughts, coping, and the ongoing journey of recovery 07:44 - The importance of support, advocacy, and unconditional love 08:24 - Nicholas explains what kids should know about childhood depression 09:10 - Nicholas shares what adults—especially parents—must understand 09:57 - The role of listening vs. fixing in parenting children with depression 10:45 - ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) and long-term impact on mental health 12:41 - Parenting insight: addressing suffering doesn’t mean you’ve failed 13:43 - Closing reflections: the power of advocacy, listening, and courageExplore 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 depression doesn’t respond to standard treatment, it can feel hopeless. But today’s conversation with Dr. James Greenblatt, a pioneer in integrative and nutritional psychiatry, offers new insights and real hope. Instead of treating only symptoms, Dr. Greenblatt explores underlying causes—like nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, gut health, and genetic factors—that might fuel depression.In this episode, you’ll learn why depression is more than “chemical imbalance,” how lab testing can uncover hidden contributors, and what emerging holistic solutions—from amino acids to lithium orotate—may help those struggling with treatment-resistant depression.This conversation is not medical advice, but it may give you new tools, language, and questions to bring to your doctor or mental health provider.Primary Topics Covered:Why antidepressants often only partially treat depressionThe limitations of “measureless medicine” in psychiatryHow functional and integrative psychiatry looks for root causesThe role of nutrition: vitamins, amino acids, and gut healthLithium orotate as a potential low-dose, anti-suicidal aidPractical steps to discuss with your doctor: blood tests, genetic testing, family historyA hopeful vision of recovery and remissionTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction and framing of today’s episode 01:14 - Who is Dr. James Greenblatt and what is integrative psychiatry? 02:08 - Why standard antidepressant treatment often falls short 03:11 - Psychiatry as “measureless medicine” and its limitations 04:02 - Residual symptoms: hopelessness and suicidality after treatment 05:01 - Looking for underlying causes: nutrition, immunity, hormones, toxins 06:30 - Lab testing as an objective tool for depression treatment 07:28 - The cost of untreated depression and suicide 08:08 - The “ZEBRA” framework for personalized depression care 09:02 - Amino acids and their role in neurotransmitters 10:01 - Lithium orotate: hope as an anti-suicide supplement 11:12 - Safety considerations and medical supervision 11:59 - Dr. Greenblatt’s three recommendations for patients 13:04 - Final reflections from Dr. Greenblatt 13:26 - Hosts discuss key takeaways: vitamins, amino acids, and hope 14:25 - The power of adding functional medicine to your care team 15:11 - Closing thoughts and upcoming episodesExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Depression is more than sadness—it affects mood, energy, sleep, concentration, and even physical health. In this episode, psychologist Dr. Anita Sands joins us to break down the symptoms of depression in a clear, compassionate way.Whether you’re struggling yourself or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers practical guidance: how to recognize the warning signs, what “brain fog” really means, and why depression is as serious as any physical illness. Dr. Sands also shares how friends and family can open conversations about mental health and provide meaningful support.If you’ve ever wondered how to spot depression or what to say to someone who’s hurting, this episode is a must-listen.Primary Topics Covered:Depression as a serious medical illness (not weakness or character flaw)Key symptoms: mood changes, energy shifts, sleep/appetite disruptions, concentration issuesUnderstanding “brain fog” in depressionThe role of guilt, worthlessness, and hopelessness in deepening depressionWhen sadness turns into clinical depression (two-week diagnostic threshold)Why professional help (therapy, medication, or both) is often necessaryHow friends and family can start supportive conversationsPractical scripts for encouraging someone to seek helpTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction to the episode and hosts 01:16 – What depression is (and isn’t) 02:12 – Depression as a serious illness, compared to cancer 02:41 – Warning signs: mood changes, sadness, irritability, numbness 03:33 – Energy shifts: agitation or extreme fatigue 04:23 – Behavioral changes: loss of motivation, withdrawal, the “zombie walk” 05:04 – Brain fog, focus issues, and negative thought spirals 06:21 – Duration of symptoms and when it becomes clinical depression 07:51 – Seeking help: therapy, doctors, and treatment options 08:27 – Why a combination of treatments often works best 09:20 – Supporting someone: making it okay to talk 10:07 – Example from Michael Phelps on checking in with a friend 11:00 – Helping with logistics: scheduling and attending appointments 12:24 – What to say: “You deserve to feel better and have a good life” 13:34 – Comparing depression to cancer: negative thoughts like rogue cells 14:10 – Resources: website and Facebook community 14:58 – Closing reminder: You deserve to feel betterExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/