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

Asking for help when you’re struggling with depression can feel overwhelming—sometimes impossible. In this episode, mental health advocate Sam Dylan Finch shares the second half of his powerful list of 10 specific phrases you can use when reaching out for support.Instead of vague advice like “just ask for help,” Sam provides concrete, compassionate language for everything from asking a loved one to help with chores to telling someone directly that you’re suicidal and need help now.If you’ve ever felt stuck in silence, afraid to burden others, or unsure how to put words to your pain, this episode offers a life-saving toolkit. These practical scripts can help you—and those you care about—navigate moments of crisis with clarity and connection.Link to Sam Dylan Finch's original article: https://letsqueerthingsup.com/2018/03/03/10-ways-to-reach-out-when-youre-struggling-with-your-mental-health/Primary Topics Covered:Why reaching out feels so hard when you’re depressedThe danger of vague advice and why specific language matters10 practical, real-world tested phrases to ask for helpHow small acts of support (like chores or errands) can be life-savingHow to communicate urgency when you’re nearing your limitWhy being direct about suicidal thoughts is critical and okayHow to build support even if you don’t have close relationshipsWays loved ones can respond and show support without needing “the perfect words”Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction: The challenge of asking for help 01:01 – Why we’re revisiting Sam Dylan Finch’s work 02:59 – The problem with vague “ask for help” advice 04:39 – What can we do to help people stay alive right now? 05:23 – Phrase #6: “I need extra support with [specific task]—can you help?” 07:31 – Phrase #7: “Could you remind me what I mean to you or share a favorite memory?” 09:08 – Phrase #8: “I’m struggling and afraid I’m reaching my limit. Can you call me [specific time]?” 10:31 – Phrase #9: “I know we don’t talk much, but I feel like I can trust you. Are you free to talk [specific day/time]?” 12:22 – Phrase #10: “I am suicidal. I need help right now.” 13:57 – Why directness in crisis saves lives 15:27 – How small acts of support can make a huge difference 17:22 – How friends can help without having “the right answers” 18:57 – Supporting someone in crisis: walking with them through next steps 19:40 – Closing reflections: why this list is worth returning toExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Reaching out when you’re struggling with depression can feel nearly impossible. You may not know what to say, what to ask for, or how to begin. In this episode, mental health writer and advocate Sam Dylan Finch shares five practical ways to ask for support—complete with sample phrases you can use when words are hard to find.Through candid conversation with hosts Terry and Dr. Anita Sanz, Sam highlights the importance of vulnerability, clear asks, and small but powerful connections that can make a difference long before a crisis. Whether you need someone to check in, distract you, or simply sit with you, this episode provides language and strategies to help you reach out without feeling like a burden.If you’ve ever wondered what to say when depression makes reaching out feel impossible, this conversation will give you both the words and the hope to take that step.Link to Sam Dylan Finch's original article: https://letsqueerthingsup.com/2018/03/03/10-ways-to-reach-out-when-youre-struggling-with-your-mental-health/Primary Topics Covered:Why reaching out can feel so difficult during depression.How stigma and fear of “asking too much” keep people silent.The importance of early, upstream support before things reach crisis.5 specific, practical phrases you can use when reaching out for help.Why small acts of support—like daily check-ins or distractions—matter more than we think.Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction to the episode and context from past conversations 01:00 – Why reaching out when suicidal or depressed feels so hard 02:40 – Common fears and feedback about asking for help 04:00 – Introducing Sam Dylan Finch and his perspective as a writer and advocate 05:20 – The impact of losing a friend to suicide and lessons learned 07:00 – Why loved ones are often the first line of defense, not professionals 08:00 – The need for practical language when asking for help 08:35 – Tip #1: “I don’t know what I need, but I don’t want to be alone.” 09:54 – Tip #2: “I’m struggling, and what I’ve been trying isn’t working—can we team up?” 10:30 – Tip #3: “I don’t feel safe by myself right now. Can you stay with me?” 10:55 – Tip #4: “I’m in a bad place but not ready to talk. Can you distract me?” 12:28 – Tip #5: “Can you check in on me on specific days?” 13:42 – Why small, consistent check-ins matter so much 14:20 – Key takeaways: you don’t have to know exactly what you need to reach out 16:59 – Early intervention and the power of upstream suicide prevention 18:38 – Why even small gestures—like texts, emojis, or humor—can be life-saving 19:36 – Looking ahead to Part 2: deeper crisis-level asksExplore 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 have we learned from a full season of listening to people who live with depression and those who support them?In this special reflection episode, Bridget and Terry share the most powerful lessons and stories from Season Two of Giving Voice to Depression. From practical coping strategies to groundbreaking research, these highlights reveal how storytelling reduces stigma, builds connection, and reminds us all that depression doesn’t define who we are.This recap includes insights from:Liz, on why antidepressants are not failures but tools for healingDr. Patrick Corrigan, on why real stories, not education, best fight stigmaDr. Margaret Rutherford, on the dangers of “perfectly hidden depression”Dr. Barbara Moser, with clear suicide prevention guidanceTerry, sharing her personal journey in Depression LiesBen, on building a support “game plan” before crisis hitsTeens from Not Alone, speaking honestly about depression and suicideSeason Two shows us again and again: depression lies, but stories heal.Primary Topics Covered:Why depression is only one part of a person’s identityThe ripple effect of self-disclosure in reducing stigmaAntidepressants as leveling tools, not signs of weaknessWhy personal stories are more effective than education in fighting stigmaRecognizing and addressing “perfectly hidden depression”The lies of depression and Terry’s personal survival storyThe importance of planning support conversations ahead of crisisPractical suicide prevention strategies and hotline supportHonest accounts of teen depression and resilienceThe healing power of sharing and listening to lived experienceTimestamps00:10 Introduction and Season Two reflection 01:02 “Ask a Different Question” – depression as one part of the self 02:19 Ripple Report: how personal stories change crisis response 03:08 Liz on recognizing and managing depression 04:18 Antidepressants as a tool, not a failure 04:34 Dr. Patrick Corrigan on fighting stigma through storytelling 05:30 Dr. Margaret Rutherford on perfectly hidden depression 06:12 Terry’s survival story in Depression Lies 06:50 Ben on planning for support during stable times 07:19 Duff the Psychic on the metaphor of depression as a parasite 07:50 Jennifer on fear, isolation, and finding relief through medication 08:20 Mary on depression in older adults 09:06 Dr. Tevet on sadness versus clinical depression 10:00 Dr. Barbara Moser on suicide prevention (part one) 11:14 Dr. Moser on suicide prevention (part two) 12:23 Teens from Not Alone on depression and survival 14:29 Closing reflections and preview of Season ThreeExplore 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 one of Giving Voice to Depression brought deeply moving, raw, and powerful stories from people who know depression firsthand—and those impacted by it.In this special wrap-up, co-hosts Bridget and Terry reflect on the season’s most powerful lessons. From the risks of keeping family mental health struggles secret, to the realities of stigma in schools and workplaces, to the devastating impact of suicide and the unique grief that follows, this season explored depression from many perspectives.Along the way, parents, teachers, survivors, and experts helped shed light on what depression really feels like, how stigma blocks healing, and why honest conversations save lives.If you’re new to the podcast, this episode is the perfect entry point. If you’ve been with us all season, it’s a reminder of the strength it takes to tell the truth—and the hope it gives to those who listen.Primary Topics Covered:Why keeping family mental health struggles secret causes sufferingStigma in schools, workplaces, and families—and its dangerous consequencesA father’s story of losing his child to suicideThe unique grief of siblings surviving suicide lossThe perspective of a suicide attempt survivorWhat experts say is the difference between sadness and depressionHow depression’s voice convinces us we’re worthlessPregnancy-related depression: postpartum and antepartum experiencesThe ripple effect of sharing stories to reduce stigma and increase understandingTimestamps:00:10 Introduction from Bridget and Terry 00:46 Why sharing real stories of depression matters 01:06 Jose on the danger of keeping family mental health struggles secret 01:42 Bridget shares her frightening antidepressant experience 02:05 Adele’s reminder: you don’t need depression to be affected by it 02:29 A three-week focus on stigma and its risks 03:47 Jeff’s story: reducing stigma in UK workplaces 04:17 A teacher’s initiative to reduce stigma in schools 04:47 Suicide explored from three perspectives: father, sibling, survivor 06:07 Experts explain the difference between sadness and depression 06:50 Sarah describes depression’s insidious inner voice 07:19 Lisa and Isabelle on pregnancy-related depression 08:01 Listener feedback: stories help reduce isolation and build language 08:35 Reflections and gratitude from Bridget and Terry 09:06 Closing reminders: speak up if you’re hurting, listen up 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/

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/