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

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/

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/