Giving Voice to Depression

The holidays are painted as a season of joy, but for many living with depression or grief, they can feel overwhelming, isolating, and exhausting. In this episode, we explore how unrealistic expectations, social pressure, and loss can intensify depression at Christmas. With the help of psychologist Dr. Anita Sanz, we reframe holiday struggles through an unexpected lens—Ebenezer Scrooge.Dr. Sands reminds us that what looks like irritability, withdrawal, or “coldness” may actually be grief or depression, and that offering compassion—rather than judgment—can make all the difference.We also discuss practical coping strategies for both those living with depression and the loved ones who want to support them, including flexible invitations, self-care routines, and giving yourself permission to simplify traditions.If you’re struggling with the holidays, this episode offers validation, perspective, and tools for making the season gentler on your mental health.Primary Topics Covered:Why the holidays can feel harder with depressionGrief, loss, and the “Scrooge” perspective on holiday strugglesThe role of unrealistic expectations and financial/social stressCompassionate ways friends and family can support someone strugglingPractical self-care strategies for navigating holiday depressionRedefining traditions and giving yourself permission to simplifyTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction and welcome 01:08 – Why depression can feel worse during the holidays 02:42 – Ebenezer Scrooge as a lens to understand grief and depression 04:23 – The stigma of not being “in the holiday spirit” 05:41 – Depression as feeling disconnected during holiday celebrations 06:54 – Why declining holiday invitations isn’t always about rejection 07:14 – The gift of offering flexible invitations and compassion 09:25 – Shifting that same compassion inward: the basics of self-care 10:51 – Affordable, realistic ways to practice holiday self-care 11:37 – Reclaiming choice: defining what the holidays mean for you 13:27 – Simplifying traditions and focusing on what nourishes you 14:37 – Managing financial and emotional fallout after the holidays 15:13 – The importance of permission and choice in holiday planning 16:08 – Personal reflections on simplifying and redefining Christmas 17:23 – Closing thoughts and holiday wishesExplore 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 does not discriminate, but the way it is experienced, discussed, and treated in different communities can vary greatly. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we sit down with Philip Roundtree, a therapist and mental health advocate, who shares his personal and professional perspective on depression in the Black community.Philip opens up about living with depression and anxiety, the daily reality of suicidal thoughts, and the healing power of therapy and medication. He also tackles the unique stigma in the Black community—where historical trauma, cultural expectations, and systemic barriers often prevent open discussions about mental health.Through his story, Philip emphasizes the importance of representation, open conversations, and seeking real help beyond prayer alone. His perspective offers both honesty and hope: that healing is possible, and that strength includes caring for your mental health.This powerful conversation will resonate with anyone who has struggled with depression, faced stigma, or wondered how cultural identity shapes our mental health journeys.Link to Phillip Roundtree's site Quadefy LLC: http://quadefyllc.net/ Primary Topics Covered:How depression and anxiety show up differently in the Black communityThe impact of stigma, cultural expectations, and historical traumaWhy representation matters in mental health advocacy and treatmentSuicidal thoughts and the lifesaving role of support systemsThe importance of therapy, medication, and holistic healingHow to balance spirituality and faith with professional mental health careTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction to Giving Voice to Depression 01:20 – Depression, negative thoughts, and cultural differences 02:11 – Meet Philip Roundtree: therapist and advocate 03:10 – Wearing “This Is What Depression Looks Like” 04:15 – Stigma and silence around mental health in the Black community 05:12 – Historical trauma, mistrust, and resilience 07:08 – Living with suicidal thoughts daily 08:29 – The importance of having someone to call for support 09:41 – How medication helped shift suicidal thinking 10:48 – Therapy as healing, not just coping 11:15 – Closing reflections 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/

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Brant Williams shares his journey of battling anxiety and depression and the creative ways he found to communicate and heal. Through his graphic novel Out of the Woods, Brant opens an honest window into what depression feels like, how it impacts loved ones, and the step-by-step process of rebuilding life after darkness.Brant reminds us that recovery is not quick or linear—it’s about small, intentional steps that add up over time. From breathing techniques and therapy to journaling and mood tracking, he built his recovery brick by brick. This conversation is both vulnerable and hopeful, showing that while depression is a thief, it can also become a wake-up call to real, lasting change.If you or someone you love is struggling, this episode offers practical strategies, compassionate perspective, and the reassurance that healing is possible—one brick at a time.Primary Topics Covered:Why Brant chose a graphic novel to share his experience with depressionThe impact of depression on family, friends, and relationshipsPractical recovery tools: breathing, journaling, therapy, mood trackingLearning from missteps and reframing depression as a wake-up callThe importance of patience, persistence, and small daily stepsTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction to the episode and guest 01:00 – Why Brant shared his story through a graphic novel 02:50 – Depression’s impact on loved ones and relationships 04:20 – Building recovery “one brick at a time” 05:15 – Mistakes and lessons from Brant’s early struggles 06:20 – Breathing exercises and grounding techniques 07:30 – How depression affects the brain and the role of neurofeedback 08:30 – Finding the right therapist and the value of expression 09:20 – How friends and family can support someone with depression 10:15 – Reflections on medication and treatment decisions 11:00 – Mood tracking and journaling as recovery tools 12:20 – How depression changes self-identity and perspective 13:30 – Depression as both a thief and a wake-up call 14:30 – Closing thoughts: hope, healing, and practical toolsExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Starting college can be exciting, but for many students, it can also be overwhelming and isolating. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Justin shares his raw and honest story about battling severe depression during his college years — from isolation in the dorms and academic struggles to a moment of crisis that nearly cost him his life.Justin describes how depression stripped away friendships, time, and self-worth, but also how opening up to his family and seeking professional help put him on a path toward healing. His journey highlights the importance of recognizing the signs of depression in students, breaking stigma, and reminding those struggling that recovery is possible.This episode is for anyone navigating college depression themselves, parents worried about their kids, or friends who want to better understand how to support loved ones during this critical life stage.Link to article on college depression: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/tween-and-teen-health/in-depth/college-depression/art-20048327Link to Justin's book: https://www.amazon.com/Hell-Has-No-Stars-Depression/dp/150272748X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1511816933&sr=1-1&keywords=justin+mercerPrimary Topics Covered:What “college depression” means and why it’s so commonJustin’s personal story of depression beginning in adolescence and peaking in collegeThe impact of isolation, academic pressure, and negative self-talkHow depression nearly took Justin’s life — and what stopped himThe role of family support, therapy, and medication in recoveryMoving from breakdown to breakthrough and building resilienceWhy sharing stories matters: connection, empathy, and reducing stigmaTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction to the episode 00:27 – What “college depression” is and why it matters 02:08 – Justin traces his depression back to age 12 03:01 – How isolation in college worsened his mental health 03:47 – Emotional and physical isolation in the dorms 05:13 – Reaching rock bottom: the night of his suicide attempt 06:32 – Opening up to his parents and the turning point 07:35 – Starting treatment and the trial-and-error of medication 08:38 – Learning to shift from “breakdown” to “breakthrough” 08:57 – Justin’s reflections at 23: resilience and perseverance 09:57 – The importance of connection and rediscovering hope 11:14 – Tools for remembering depression will pass 11:59 – Justin’s book Hell Has No Stars and additional 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/

Retired California Highway Patrol officer Kevin Briggs, often called “The Guardian of the Golden Gate”, has been on the frontlines of suicide prevention for decades. In this powerful conversation, Kevin shares his personal battle with depression and PTSD, the lessons he learned from speaking with hundreds of people on the Golden Gate Bridge, and how listening, empathy, and hope can truly save lives.Kevin’s story reminds us that while medications and therapy can help, sometimes what people need most is someone who will simply listen. He explains why stopping medication without medical advice can be dangerous, the most common reasons people reach crisis points, and how families and friends can better support loved ones struggling with mental illness.This episode is about courage—both in facing our own mental health struggles and in being present for others when the stakes are life or death.Primary Topics Covered:Kevin Briggs’ personal struggle with depression and PTSDHis role as a suicide prevention officer on the Golden Gate BridgeWhy listening and empathy are essential tools in suicide preventionThe dangers of stopping psychiatric medication without medical guidanceCommon triggers for suicidal ideation (relationships, finances, untreated illness)How to find the right therapist or support systemThe emotional toll of suicide prevention work—and how Kevin takes care of his own mental healthTimestamps:00:10 – Introduction to the podcast and mission 01:00 – Kevin Briggs’ background as an Army veteran and officer 02:19 – Early misconceptions about mental illness 03:13 – Kevin’s depression diagnosis and what changed his perspective 04:09 – Becoming known as the “Guardian of the Golden Gate” 05:24 – Why finding the right therapist matters 06:02 – The power of listening before crisis escalates 07:01 – Common reasons people reach suicidal crisis points 07:24 – Why stopping medication suddenly can be dangerous 08:16 – What helped most during crisis conversations 08:51 – What didn’t help—and lessons learned 09:58 – The emotional toll of prevention work and coping with loss 11:11 – Kevin’s own mental health care and self-care practices 12:22 – The importance of courageous conversations about depression 13:22 – Call to action: 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/

What happens when a stranger chooses compassion in a moment of crisis? This episode continues the extraordinary true story of Johnny and Neil—two men whose lives changed forever on a bridge in London. In Part Two, Johnny reflects on the aftermath of that day, the struggles that followed, and the small but powerful moments of hope that kept him moving forward.Listeners will hear how one conversation inspired lasting recovery, sparked a global campaign (#FindMike), and turned two strangers into lifelong friends and mental health advocates. This episode is a moving reminder of how empathy, openness, and human connection can save lives—and how each of us has the power to offer hope.Primary Topics Covered:The aftermath of Johnny’s suicide crisis and hospital stayHow one compassionate conversation planted seeds of hopeThe challenges of recovery, relapse, and acceptanceThe viral #FindMike campaign and its surprising resultsStories of “silent heroes” who stop to help strangers in distressWhy compassion and human connection are vital in suicide preventionThe underestimated power of giving someone hopeTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction and recap of Part One 01:00 – Picking up after the crisis on the bridge 02:15 – Johnny reflects on anger, regret, and eventual hope 03:30 – The slow process of recovery and acceptance 04:50 – A life-changing conversation with a friend 05:40 – Making a video and realizing he wasn’t alone 06:30 – The launch and impact of the #FindMike campaign 07:30 – Stories of “silent heroes” who helped strangers in crisis 09:00 – Neil reflects on why he stopped to help Johnny 10:15 – The role of empathy and openness in mental health support 11:20 – How compassion can give someone hope 12:20 – Neil and Johnny’s friendship and advocacy work today 13:10 – Closing reflections: the underestimated power 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 moving episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Bridget and Terry share a powerful first-person story of empathy, compassion, and suicide prevention. When Johnny, a young man in the UK, sat on a bridge planning to end his life, a stranger named Neil stopped to listen. Without training, but with deep compassion, Neil offered empathy in a way Johnny had never experienced before—reminding him he was not alone, that there was nothing to be ashamed of, and that recovery was possible.Their conversation not only saved Johnny’s life but highlights how ordinary people can make an extraordinary difference simply by listening with compassion. This episode explores the transformative power of empathy, the importance of suicide prevention conversations, and how showing up for someone in crisis can change everything.Primary Topics Covered:The power of empathy in suicide preventionJohnny’s lived experience with schizoaffective disorderThe role of shame and stigma in suicidal thoughtsHow a stranger’s compassion created hope in crisisWhy listening and presence matter more than trainingLessons we can all apply to support someone in needTimestamps00:10 – Introduction to the new season of Giving Voice to Depression 01:12 – Announcement of podcast growth and first grant support 01:37 – Recap of previous suicide prevention episodes 02:13 – Neil’s story: encountering Johnny on the bridge 03:20 – Johnny shares his state of mind and diagnosis 04:47 – The first conversation between Neil and Johnny 05:48 – The power of listening without judgment 06:52 – Words that gave Johnny hope and shifted his perspective 07:59 – Johnny agrees to step down and seek warmth and safety 08:35 – Police intervention and the impact on the moment 09:56 – Reflections on compassion and empathy as lifesaving forces 12:32 – Closing thoughts on being an ally and showing up for others 13:05 – Podcast wrap-up and call to actionExplore 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 season wrap-up, Bridget and Terry reflect on some of the most powerful conversations and lessons from Season Two of Giving Voice to Depression.From learning that depression doesn’t define us, to hearing how storytelling reduces stigma, to gaining insights from experts on suicide prevention and stigma research, this review episode captures the heart of the season’s themes: connection, honesty, and hope.You’ll hear highlights from guests like:Liz, who explains how antidepressants “level the playing field”Dr. Patrick Corrigan, who shows why personal stories fight stigma better than education aloneDr. Margaret Rutherford, who defines “perfectly hidden depression”Dr. Barbara Moser, with clear and practical suicide prevention adviceTeens from the documentary Not Alone, bravely describing depression in their own wordsThis episode is a reminder that while depression lies and isolates, stories connect us, and healing often begins when we speak—and listen—openly.Primary Topics Covered:Why depression is only one part of who we areThe power of self-disclosure and storytelling in reducing stigmaHow antidepressants can “level the playing field”Expert research showing why contact, not education alone, reduces stigmaUnderstanding perfectly hidden depression and why hiding struggles doesn’t workTerry’s personal story in Depression LiesWhy planning support conversations during stable times helps loved ones with depressionPractical suicide prevention strategies and language from Dr. Barbara MoserHonest stories of teen depression and suicide prevention from Not AloneThe ripple effect of sharing—how one person’s voice empowers anotherTimestamps00:10 Introduction and Season Two reflection 01:02 “Ask a Different Question” – depression as part of the whole self 02:19 Ripple Report: how self-disclosure stories shift crisis care 03:08 Liz on recognizing and managing depression 04:18 Antidepressants as tools, not failures 04:34 Dr. Patrick Corrigan on fighting stigma through human connection 05:30 Dr. Margaret Rutherford on perfectly hidden depression 06:12 Terry’s personal story in Depression Lies 06:50 Ben on offering and asking for support at the right time 07:19 Duff the Psychic: depression as a parasite metaphor 07:50 Jennifer on isolation, fear, and medication bringing relief 08:20 Mary on depression and the elderly 09:06 Dr. Tevet on the difference between sadness and clinical depression 10:00 Dr. Barbara Moser on suicide prevention, part one 11:14 Dr. Moser on suicide prevention, part two (supporting calls to the hotline) 12:23 Teen depression stories from Not Alone documentary 14:29 Closing reflections and looking ahead to 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/

Depression doesn’t always look the same—and managing it often requires persistence, patience, and support.In this episode, Liz, 58, shares her powerful journey through two different forms of depression: one triggered by grief and trauma that gradually lifted, and another caused by chemical imbalance that required treatment with therapy and medication.Liz explains how she built a toolbox of coping skills including meditation, music, acupuncture, and time in nature. She also talks about the role of supportive friends who checked in, listened, and sat with her without judgment—reminding her she wasn’t alone.Now, Liz uses her experience to help others recognize depression in themselves and encourages them to seek treatment. Her story is a reminder that depression is not a failure—and that healing is possible through a mix of professional care and compassionate connection.Primary Topics Covered:The difference between grief-related depression and chemical imbalance depressionWhy therapy and medication were both critical in Liz’s recoveryThe long process of trial and error in finding the right treatmentSelf-care strategies that support healing (music, meditation, nature, acupuncture)Why depression requires persistence and patienceHow friends and family can support someone strugglingThe importance of recognizing depression as an illness, not a weaknessHow sharing stories helps reduce stigma and inspire othersTimestamps00:46 Introduction to Liz’s story 01:02 Depression as a spectrum with different causes 02:03 Liz’s first experience: grief-related depression 02:23 How trauma shaped her early struggles 02:58 Chemical imbalance depression that required medical treatment 03:13 The trial-and-error process of therapy and antidepressants 03:54 How others helped Liz see she was depressed 04:25 Liz helps a friend recognize depression symptoms 05:21 Antidepressants as a tool, not a failure 05:37 Liz’s self-care toolbox: meditation, acupuncture, nature, music 05:53 How friends supported her through presence and listening 06:23 The importance of checking in and staying connected 07:08 Talking openly to reduce stigma and normalize depression 07:38 Why depression is not a personal weakness or flaw 08:29 Sitting with thoughts and learning to quiet the inner critic 09:14 Building a strong support network for difficult times 10:09 The ripple effect of paying forward support and awareness 10:38 Final reflections on persistence and hope 11:03 Closing thoughtsExplore 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 full of contradictions: loneliness mixed with withdrawal, hunger without appetite, the need for support alongside the fear of asking for it.In this episode, Ben, a 28-year-old Brooklyn artist living with both bipolar disorder and depression, shares his story of navigating those contradictions while learning how to give and receive help.He describes how changes in medication once triggered a major depressive episode, how he built a toolbox of coping strategies (including therapy, biking, and mindfulness), and why it’s so important to create a support game plan when you’re well—so friends and family know how to help when things get hard.Ben also speaks about the risks of suppressing emotions, past trauma, and the courage it takes to be open about needs before reaching a crisis. His story offers practical tools and honest insights for anyone living with depression—or supporting someone who is.Primary Topics Covered:Ben’s lived experience with bipolar disorder and depressionWhy medication changes can trigger major depressive episodesBuilding a personalized coping “toolbox” (CBT, biking, yoga, mindfulness)The contradictions of depression (wanting connection but avoiding people, hungry but not eating)The difficulty and importance of asking for helpCreating a support game plan before a depressive episode hitsThe “inner tube” metaphor for suppressed emotions and why release mattersHow past trauma shapes current mental health challengesWhy timing and compassion are key in supporting someone with depressionTimestamps00:10 Introduction to Ben’s story 01:02 Why Ben rescheduled due to depression 01:24 The impact of medication changes on mood stability 02:08 Managing depression like “untangling Christmas lights” 02:19 Ben’s coping toolbox: CBT, biking, yoga, daily practices 03:20 Contradictions of depression: loneliness, hunger, withdrawal 03:49 The challenge of asking for help when you need it most 04:17 Learning that despair is temporary 05:18 Why timing matters when offering support 05:29 Creating a support game plan during stable times 06:46 Why talking about depression while well is most effective 07:55 The relief of check-ins without pressure 08:22 The “inner tube” metaphor for suppressed emotions 09:04 Past trauma and its lasting effects on mental health 10:00 Reflections on healing, coping, and self-care 10:43 Closing thanks and lessons from Ben’s story 11:14 Final reminder: 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/