Giving Voice to Depression

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/

Depression can make even the smallest tasks feel impossible. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Dr. Robert Duff—known to many as Duff the Psych—shares straightforward, effective tools for coping with depression in daily life.Author of the bestselling Hardcore Self-Help books, Dr. Duff explains why depression feels like a parasite, draining energy and self-worth. He introduces behavioral activation, a method that helps you regain momentum by starting with simple, manageable activities. He also guides us through a mindfulness exercise that quiets intrusive thoughts and brings attention back to the present.Whether you’re navigating your own depression or supporting someone you love, this episode offers practical steps, compassion, and encouragement.Primary Topics Covered:Why depression feels like a “parasite” on motivation and energyHow behavioral activation helps you re-engage with lifeChoosing activities by weighing effort vs. rewardWhy starting with small wins is key to recoveryA mindfulness spotlight exercise to calm negative thoughtsGiving yourself grace and compassion in the processWhen and how to consider therapy or medication alongside self-helpTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction to the episode 00:27 – Podcast mission and welcome 00:59 – Guest introduction: Dr. Robert Duff (“Duff the Psych”) 01:34 – Depression as a “parasite” metaphor 02:28 – How depression fuels guilt and self-criticism 02:46 – Behavioral activation explained 03:44 – Using effort vs. reward to guide activity choices 04:30 – Why small, low-effort wins matter 05:36 – Brain chemistry and motivation in depression 06:14 – Mindfulness spotlight exercise for intrusive thoughts 07:10 – Practicing shifting attention to the present moment 08:37 – Real-life applications of mindfulness 08:55 – Self-awareness vs. harmful coping strategies 09:16 – The importance of self-compassion and grace 10:25 – Medication as a supportive treatment option 10:37 – Closing reflections on Dr. Duff’s advice 11:14 – Terry and Bridget reflect on Duff’s insights 12:30 – Encouragement to practice grace and take action 12:44 – Resources and where to find Dr. Duff’s work 13:04 – Outro: “Speak up and listen up”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/

Conversations about suicide are hard, but they can also be life-saving. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, hosts Bridget and Terry continue their series with Dr. Barbara Moser, chair of Prevent Suicide Greater Milwaukee, focusing on how to talk about suicide and what to do when someone is in crisis.Listeners will learn how to recognize warning signs of suicidal thoughts, how to ask directly and compassionately, and the steps to take if someone says they are suicidal. From reducing access to lethal means, to knowing when to call 911, to simply staying present with someone in pain, this conversation offers both practical tools and hope.If you’ve ever wondered how to support someone struggling with suicidal thoughts, this episode gives you the knowledge and courage to take action.Link to Suicide Prevention Lifeline resource: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/how-we-can-all-prevent-suicide/Primary Topics CoveredWhy suicide prevention requires open, honest conversationsThe importance of asking directly about suicidal thoughtsRisk factors and warning signs of suicideHow to respond if someone says they are suicidalReducing access to lethal means as a key prevention strategyWhen to call 911 or seek emergency helpThe role of compassion, presence, and ongoing check-insCrisis resources everyone should knowTimestamps00:00 - Introduction to the episode and series 01:14 - Suicide risk factors explained 03:16 - Why asking directly about suicide reduces risk 04:00 - How to respond when someone says they have suicidal thoughts 05:18 - Assessing suicide risk: plan, means, and intent 06:30 - Gender differences in suicide attempts and deaths 07:02 - Removing lethal means to increase safety 08:20 - National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and crisis text line 09:19 - Why you should not leave a suicidal person alone 10:12 - When to call 911 or go to the emergency room 12:12 - The acute suicide crisis period and possibility of recovery 13:01 - Why every cry for help should be taken seriously 13:57 - Never promising secrecy when discussing suicide 14:18 - Trusting instincts and staying present with loved ones 15:26 - Final reflections and looking ahead in the seriesExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Suicide is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, yet conversations about it remain silenced by stigma. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we begin a two-part series on suicide prevention with Dr. Barbara Moser, chair of the Prevent Suicide Greater Milwaukee Coalition.Dr. Moser joins hosts Bridget and Terry to explain the warning signs, risk factors, and protective factors related to suicide—and why direct, honest conversations can save lives.Listeners will learn how to recognize emotional suffering, what to say when they’re worried about someone, and why it’s crucial to treat suicide as a serious, life-threatening health issue. This episode is both practical and deeply compassionate, equipping us all with the tools to start lifesaving conversations.Primary Topics Covered:Why suicide prevention must be approached with compassion and candorRecognizing warning signs and risk factors for suicideHow protective factors and reasons for living can reduce riskThe importance of asking direct questions about suicideHow to offer support to someone struggling with suicidal thoughtsUnderstanding suicide as a life-threatening illnessWhy ongoing check-ins and presence matter more than perfect wordsTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction and episode overview 00:27 – Suicide Prevention Month and why this matters 01:18 – Meet Dr. Barbara Moser 02:01 – Is suicide truly preventable? 04:29 – Supporting those who’ve lost someone to suicide 05:58 – First steps if you’re concerned about someone 06:59 – Why asking directly about suicide is lifesaving 07:52 – Recognizing suicide warning signs 08:47 – Following up: why one conversation isn’t enough 10:32 – Suicide as a life-threatening illness 11:04 – Identifying emotional suffering in others 11:40 – Compassion, candor, and presence in tough moments 12:23 – Protective factors and reasons for living 13:12 – Why shifting focus to hope matters 13:25 – Preview of part two in the series 14:09 – Closing message 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/

Season 3 of Giving Voice to Depression brought some of the most powerful and healing stories yet. From strangers who saved lives on bridges, to college students finding their way back from despair, to voices challenging stigma in Black communities — every episode reminded us of the strength found in sharing our struggles.In this season review, Brigitte and Terri revisit key episodes, highlighting lessons of empathy, peer support, and resilience. Listeners will hear how stories spark ripples of hope, why listening is one of the greatest gifts we can give, and how community can transform isolation into healing.This episode isn’t just a recap — it’s a reminder that depression is survivable, connection matters, and that talking about it can change lives.Primary Topics Covered:How empathy and compassion save livesStories of recovery and resilience from depressionThe impact of stigma and silence on mental healthBlack mental health and cultural challengesThe healing power of community supportWhy listening is a life-changing actChildhood depression and early interventionTimestamps:00:00 - Season 3 introduction and gratitude to storytellers 01:00 - The Power of Compassion and Empathy: A life saved on a London bridge 03:30 - Kevin Briggs, “Guardian of the Golden Gate Bridge,” on listening and empathy 04:50 - College Depression: Justin’s journey from despair to hope 06:30 - Building recovery brick by brick with Brent Williams 07:10 - Black Mental Health Matters: Breaking stigma in the Black community 08:00 - Depression, the Holidays, and Scrooge: Boundaries and self-care 09:00 - The power of community support in hard times 10:10 - The Gift of Listening: Why it matters more than advice 11:30 - Starting conversations with comedian Frank King 12:30 - Don’t ignore the signs of childhood depression 13:40 - Ripple Report: How stories spark real-world change 15:00 - A couple’s perspective on depression and stigma 16:20 - Closing thoughts: Keep talking, keep sharing, keep listeningExplore 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, we hear from Chris, who has lived with depression since middle school, and her partner Chris, who does not have depression but has learned how to support her. Together, they share what stigma, silence, and misunderstanding can do to relationships—and how compassion, trust, and open communication can make healing possible.From navigating the weight of stigma to building mutual support systems, this conversation sheds light on what depression really feels like, how it impacts loved ones, and what it takes to survive as a couple when mental illness is part of the relationship.Listeners will come away with insights on breaking down self-stigma, starting conversations about mental health early, and remembering that both partners’ well-being matters.Primary Topics Covered:The impact of stigma on depression and relationshipsThe importance of early conversations about mental healthMisunderstandings about depression and its symptomsHow partners can support someone during a depressive episodeThe role of trust and distraction techniques in copingThe need for both partners to practice self-careWhy depression should be treated as a valid illness, not weaknessTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to the podcast and episode 01:00 - Meet Chris and Chris: their relationship and depression journey 02:00 - Stigma at home and hiding depression from doctors and employers 03:30 - Boyfriend Chris shares his perspective on learning about depression 05:00 - The importance of starting mental health conversations early 06:45 - Coping together: trust, distraction, and getting through the moment 08:30 - The most misunderstood aspects of depression 10:00 - Supporting a partner while maintaining your own support system 11:00 - Chris’s message of hope: why life is still worth living 12:30 - Closing 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/

In this special Ripple Report episode, we explore how personal stories about depression and mental health ripple outward to inspire change in surprising ways. From classrooms to crisis hotlines to New York theater productions, listeners of Giving Voice to Depression share how the podcast has transformed their approach to stigma, empathy, and support.We hear from Lindsay, director of the Tribe Theater Company, whose ensemble is producing Every Brilliant Thing—a play about love, depression, and hope. Lindsay describes how listening to the podcast became part of her personal mental health toolkit and how her theater group now uses the episodes to spark powerful discussions.The cast reflects on why storytelling is such a potent force in shifting perceptions, reducing stigma, and reminding people that they are not alone. This episode celebrates the healing power of vulnerability, empathy, and community.If you’ve ever wondered how sharing one story can make a difference, this episode is proof that your voice matters.Link to The Tribe Theater Company website: https://www.thetribenyc.com/every-brilliant-thingPrimary Topics Covered:How Giving Voice to Depression inspires real-world action.Lindsay’s story of finding comfort and resilience through the podcast.The Tribe Theater Company’s production of Every Brilliant Thing and its parallels to the podcast.Why storytelling is one of the most powerful ways to fight stigma.Reflections from theater cast members on listening, empathy, and opening doors for difficult conversations.The ripple effect of sharing lived experiences of depression.Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction and sponsor acknowledgment 00:23 – Ripple Report: stories of listener impact 01:01 – Theater director Lindsay discovers the podcast 02:20 – Using podcast stories as a mental health toolkit 03:10 – Coping with anxiety while traveling with the podcast 04:12 – Every Brilliant Thing: storytelling, depression, and hope 05:42 – The healing power of group listening and discussion 06:53 – Fixing vs. listening: learning to be present 07:30 – The Tribe Theater Company’s reflections on stigma and connection 10:05 – Why one person’s story can have such a powerful impact 12:19 – Storytelling as an olive branch to begin tough conversations 13:38 – Empathy and validation through shared stories 14:26 – Closing reflections: ripples of hope and communityExplore 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 depression is often misunderstood — dismissed as moodiness, shyness, or just a “phase.” But the symptoms of depression in children are real, and if ignored, they can have lifelong consequences.In this powerful episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Sally shares her personal story of living with depression from the age of ten, when her pain went unnoticed by those around her. From losing a supportive grandmother to writing poetry that reflected her despair, Sally’s story reveals how early warning signs of depression in children can be overlooked — and why awareness matters.This episode explores what childhood depression looks like, how stigma silences families, and what parents, teachers, and mentors can do to recognize the symptoms early. It’s a reminder that noticing the signs and offering support can change — and even save — a child’s life.Link to symptoms: https://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/depression-children#1Link to Netflix documentary: https://www.netflix.com/title/80196138Primary Topics CoveredWhy childhood depression is often misinterpreted or ignoredSally’s personal story of depression beginning at age tenEarly symptoms of depression in children, including sleep changes and sadnessThe impact of losing her grandmother and lack of family supportPoetry and writing as early expressions of depressionTeachers noticing warning signs but parents dismissing themThe silence and stigma that prevented early interventionDiagnosis and first medication at age 21Building resilience and managing depression as an adultAdvice for parents, teachers, and mentors on recognizing symptomsHow early recognition and intervention can prevent lifelong strugglesTimestamps00:00 – Introduction  01:00 – Why childhood depression is often misunderstood  01:20 – Sally reflects on her 10- and 13-year-old self  02:17 – Early symptoms: sadness, excessive sleeping, feeling “different”  03:26 – Losing her grandmother and the absence of guidance  04:12 – Writing poetry as an outlet for unrecognized depression  05:09 – Teacher notices dark writing, but family ignores signs  06:08 – Rediscovering letters that showed depression at age 10  07:30 – What her grandmother might have done differently  08:42 – Receiving a diagnosis and medication at age 21  09:32 – Experiencing happiness for the first time in decades  10:06 – The reality of managing depression long-term  11:35 – Building a successful career while living with depression  12:30 – Describing “the pit” of depression  13:44 – Sally’s ongoing work supporting *Giving Voice to Depression*  14:29 – Why internet resources could have changed her childhood  14:44 – The importance of ending stigma and recognizing symptoms early  15:39 – How early support could have altered her life’s trajectory  17:16 – Closing reflections and thanks  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/

Comedian Frank King has made a career out of laughter—but behind the humor lies his lived experience with depression, suicidal thoughts, and loss within his family. In this conversation, Frank opens up about the ways comedy can be a tool for breaking stigma, starting conversations about mental health, and offering hope to those who feel hopeless.With honesty and humor, he shares his personal story, including near-suicidal moments, the role of antidepressants in his recovery, and why he believes laughter and openness can save lives. This episode is both candid and compassionate, reminding us that talking about depression isn’t weakness—it’s survival.Primary Topics Covered:How comedy and humor can create safe entry points for mental health conversationsFrank King’s personal experience with depression, family history of suicide, and near-lossThe role of antidepressants and therapy in managing mental healthWhy sharing personal stories reduces stigma and helps others feel less aloneSuicide prevention as a public health crisis—and why silence is dangerousHow to find hope and healing through openness, community, and humorTimestamps:00:00 – Introducing Giving Voice to Depression and today’s guest 01:35 – Why comedy and depression intersect more than we think 02:12 – Frank King’s background as a comedian and mental health advocate 03:12 – Family history of depression and suicide 04:26 – Near-suicide, life insurance, and what stopped him 04:56 – Why talking about depression matters 06:19 – The “fellow traveler” effect: why peer voices are powerful 07:09 – Stigma, silence, and the epidemic of suicide 09:09 – The healing power of sharing your story 10:24 – How comedy can be both coping strategy and connection tool 12:02 – Antidepressants, medication stigma, and finding balance 13:17 – Recognizing when treatment helps: “I like my life again” 13:42 – Why there’s no shame in medication, therapy, or self-care 14:25 – Small daily victories and the struggle of getting out of bed 16:32 – The importance of trusted support, community, and connectionExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Listening is often underestimated, yet it’s one of the most powerful tools we have to support someone struggling with depression. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we speak with Robert — a trained listener, retired teacher, and crisis hotline supervisor — who shares what it really means to listen without judgment.Robert explains why listening is not only a gift but also a vital act of compassion that can provide hope and connection to those who feel isolated. He discusses how his personal experiences with depression and his years of helping others have shaped his perspective, and why empathy, patience, and presence matter more than quick fixes or advice.If you’ve ever wondered how to truly be there for someone with depression, this episode offers insights, encouragement, and practical takeaways you can use right now.Primary Topics Covered:Why listening is one of the greatest gifts you can give someone with depressionHow lived experience deepens empathy and connectionThe difference between helpful listening and unhelpful adviceSetting healthy boundaries while offering supportHow stories and lived experiences reduce stigma and build communityWhy hope is essential — and how listening helps restore itTimestamps:00:10 – Introduction and purpose of the podcast 01:00 – The importance of listening in mental health conversations 02:02 – Robert shares his lived experience with depression 02:25 – Why depression can be seen as a “lifelong companion” 03:30 – Finding meaning in mental illness and personal growth 04:40 – The value of empathy and shared perspective 04:51 – How to support friends and family: listening over advice 05:57 – Recognizing and avoiding harmful “just snap out of it” advice 06:47 – The art of reflective listening and gentle questioning 07:23 – Setting boundaries when supporting someone in crisis 08:07 – Why hope is essential for recovery 09:38 – Remembering the darkness even in moments of light 10:16 – Public sharing, lived stories, and reducing stigma 12:19 – Hearing stories as a pathway to hope and recovery 12:45 – Reducing stigma and building mental health support systems 13:32 – Listening and sharing: two sides of the same coin 14:12 – Practical tips for matching tone and intensity in listening 14:58 – Depression as a blanket that smothers hope — and finding light again 15:38 – 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/