Giving Voice to Depression

When natural disasters strike, the physical destruction is only part of the story—the emotional and psychological scars can last for years. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, guest Tara Pyfrom shares her harrowing survival story of Hurricane Dorian and the long road of recovery that followed. From PTSD and depression to finding ways to rebuild hope through therapy, writing, and resilience, Tara offers a powerful look at what it means to heal after unimaginable trauma.If you or someone you know is struggling in the aftermath of a disaster, this conversation is a reminder that recovery is possible, even when the journey feels endless.Link to Tara's website with information about her book: https://tarapyfrom.com/about-mePrimary Topics Covered:Risk factors for depression, PTSD, and traumaFirst-hand survival account of Hurricane DorianThe mental health impact of losing a home and communityThe slow process of recovery and therapy after traumaThe role of writing, art, and creativity in healingCoping strategies for depression and PTSD symptomsHow to measure progress when recovery feels stalledTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction to the episode and podcast mission 01:26 – Understanding depression risk factors and trauma triggers 03:04 – Tara’s background and initial experience with Hurricane Dorian 04:49 – When the storm hit: survival and impossible choices 06:41 – Fear, panic, and making life-or-death decisions 07:22 – Escaping to the attic and waiting for the storm to pass 08:36 – The moment of survival and evacuation 09:38 – The immediate mental health aftermath: PTSD and depression 11:01 – Long-term struggles with hopelessness and therapy 12:10 – Writing as therapy and the role of poetry in healing 13:27 – Building a new home and creating hope through goals 14:13 – Reflections on time, recovery, and measuring progress 15:32 – Finding resilience through small steps forward 16:35 – Living with trauma while reclaiming happiness 17:17 – Clinical reflections on PTSD and natural disaster survivors 19:07 – The importance of moving pain out of the body through expression 20:17 – Tara’s ongoing healing and sharing her story in a book 21:02 – The reality of long-term recovery from PTSD and depression 21:46 – Closing thoughts: resilience, survival, and 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 deeply moving episode, Bob courageously shares his journey as a suicide attempt survivor who found a way back to hope through therapy, support, and a renewed commitment to life. He speaks openly about the dangerous lies depression tells, the moment he nearly gave up, and the compassion that helped him believe his life was worth living.Bob describes how cognitive behavioral therapy and building a values-based life helped him rebuild after his darkest days. His story shows that recovery is possible, that healing takes effort and support, and that—even after years of struggle—hope can return.This episode is part of our Suicide Prevention Month series, offering honest conversations that remind us all: you are not alone, and your life has value.Post-Hospitalization Risks episode referenced: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2032100/13540572Primary Topics Covered:The dangerous lies depression tells about worth and being a burdenBob’s suicide attempt and the suddenness of suicidal thoughtsThe life-saving impact of compassion from a strangerHow therapy (especially CBT) helped rebuild hope and resilienceThe importance of routines, self-care, and living by personal valuesWhy transparency and reaching out for support are essential to recoveryTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction and poem of hope 02:19 – Introducing Bob, a suicide attempt survivor 03:15 – Why Bob sought therapist approval before sharing his story 04:22 – Depression’s lies: “I wasn’t enough” and feeling like a burden 07:00 – The suddenness of his suicidal attempt 08:08 – Waking up in the hospital and the compassion of a nurse 10:32 – Learning that being valued doesn’t depend on success 12:29 – Post-hospitalization risks and the importance of aftercare 12:46 – Taking a leave of absence to focus on recovery 13:20 – Difficult conversations with family after the attempt 14:16 – Therapy approaches and why CBT was most effective 16:17 – Building resilience and recognizing dark thoughts early 17:11 – The power of routines and self-care practices 18:32 – Remembering the attempt as motivation to keep living 19:51 – Finding joy, authenticity, and self-worth at 64 20:28 – The danger of “burden syndrome” and reaching out for help 21:18 – The lasting impact of compassion and kindness 22:29 – Bob’s commitment to reaching out when struggling 23:30 – Closing reflections and 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/

Recovery from depression isn’t quick or easy—but it is possible, and it is worth it. In this episode, Renee shares her powerful story of transformation after trauma. Ten years ago, she felt hopeless, isolated, and stuck in survival mode. Today, through therapy, art, community, and relentless effort, she has built a life filled with confidence, calm, and hope.Renee reminds us that recovery often gets harder before it gets better, but the work pays off in ways you can’t imagine—improved relationships, stronger boundaries, even better physical health. She emphasizes that while support helps, you also have the power to help yourself by taking the first step and committing to the process.This conversation is a raw and hopeful look at what recovery really feels like—the messiness, the effort, and ultimately, the freedom that comes from doing the hard work.Link to Renee's earlier episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2032100/13540497Primary Topics Covered:Renee’s journey from trauma survivor to thriving adultWhy recovery often feels harder before it feels betterThe role of group therapy and art therapy in healingHow honesty and self-compassion replace shame and silenceThe messy but necessary “in-between” phase of recoveryThe impact of trauma work on both mental and physical healthHow setting boundaries can be part of healingWhy recovery requires consistent effort—but brings lasting hopeTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction and opening reflections  01:17 – A powerful quote about pain and healing  02:33 – Renee’s journey: “It’s hard AF, but worth it”  03:23 – How recovery transformed her confidence and identity  04:30 – The role of group therapy in confronting trauma  05:37 – “You can’t get over it until you get through it”  06:11 – Art therapy as a tool for expression and grounding  07:21 – Moving from hopelessness to hope-filled recovery  08:49 – Shifting from despair to faith in the recovery process  09:23 – Speaking hope to someone in the middle of depression  11:08 – Why “you’re not alone” can be hard to hear—but true  12:28 – The hard work of recovery: triggers, therapy, boundaries  13:54 – The messy middle: healing compared to cleaning a closet  14:33 – Setting long-overdue boundaries in relationships  15:58 – Learning to pause, sit with discomfort, and respond calmly  16:58 – Moving away from alcohol as a coping mechanism  17:39 – The physical impact of recovery: autoimmune improvements  18:49 – Renee’s reminder: “It’s hard AF, but it’s worth it”  20:25 – Reflection: recovery requires effort, but pays off  22:37 – Closing insights on unpacking trauma and choosing hope  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/

Demetra Prochaska, a talented singer/songwriter, beautifully opens up about her battle with depression, sparked during her teens amid her parents' divorce. She reveals her haunting song "i am not okay," encapsulating her struggles and the search for help. Demetra shares her ten-month experience in a residential treatment center and the challenges she faced during the pandemic. Highlighting the power of music as a therapeutic outlet, her journey underscores the importance of support, self-advocacy, and the universal need to feel heard.

When Emmy-winning news anchor Ted Perry first considered therapy, he was skeptical—and terrified. But what started as a reluctant step turned into a journey that reshaped his understanding of depression, recovery, and hope.In this powerful episode, Ted shares his first-ever public story about depression: how stigma delayed his healing, how therapy and medication helped him find balance, and why speaking out is so important. His honesty is both relatable and inspiring for anyone struggling silently.Listeners will walk away with encouragement, practical takeaways, and the reminder that recovery isn’t weakness—it’s strength.Primary Topics Covered:Why stigma keeps people from seeking help for depressionTed Perry’s personal story: resisting therapy, then learning its valueThe role of medication and how it works in depression recoveryWhy silence about depression wastes valuable time and relationshipsBuilding a toolbox for recovery: therapy, exercise, faith, and supportFinding hope even when depression feels overwhelmingThe importance of speaking up and breaking shame around mental healthTimestamps: 00:00 – Intro to the podcast and mission 02:08 – Introducing Ted Perry, news anchor, and his decision to speak out 04:34 – Why Ted resisted therapy at first and what changed his mind 06:11 – His first therapy experience and surprising breakthroughs 07:21 – Moving cities, grief, and depression after his father’s death 08:43 – Realizing “I was depressed” and the turning point 09:44 – How therapy and antidepressants helped Ted regain balance 10:25 – The role of exercise, pets, and other protective factors 10:53 – Why stigma makes depression worse and hope is essential 12:14 – Regrets about wasted time and relationships lost to silence 15:18 – How sharing his story brings hope to othersExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Postpartum depression and anxiety affect far more families than most people realize, yet many partners are left unprepared to recognize the signs. In this episode, Justin shares his firsthand experience of watching his wife struggle with undiagnosed postpartum depression after their first child — and how he learned to recognize the symptoms the second time around.Through his candid story, Justin highlights how PPD symptoms often remain hidden, why partners play a vital role in noticing early warning signs, and how stigma and silence delay critical treatment. He also shares practical strategies for approaching these difficult conversations with care and compassion.If you or someone you love is navigating new parenthood, this conversation is an essential guide to spotting postpartum depression and anxiety early and providing meaningful support.Related Links: https://www.familyaware.org/EPDS/https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/postpartum-depression/symptoms-causes/syc-20376617https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9312-postpartum-depressionhttps://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/postpartum-mood-disorders-what-new-moms-need-to-knowPrimary Topics Covered:The difference between “baby blues” and postpartum depressionWhy PPD and postpartum anxiety are often missed or misdiagnosedThe partner’s perspective: noticing hidden symptoms and red flagsHow stigma and silence prevent families from getting helpThe importance of compassionate communication and supportResources and screening tools for identifying postpartum depressionTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction to the episode and context on postpartum depression 01:18 – Why postpartum depression is often overlooked by partners and doctors 03:06 – Baby blues vs. postpartum depression: key differences 04:23 – Justin shares his wife’s first experience with undiagnosed PPD 05:37 – A red flag moment that signaled something deeper than “baby blues” 07:04 – How Justin approached the situation with empathy and care 08:25 – The diagnosis: postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety (PPA) 09:53 – Why many partners miss the signs of PPD and what to look for 11:39 – The silence around postpartum struggles — and breaking stigma 12:34 – Key lesson: how long symptoms last is often the most important sign 14:09 – Relief vs. shame: navigating the emotions of a PPD diagnosis 14:55 – Why partners need to ask difficult but necessary questions 17:23 – Hormonal transitions and their role in women’s mental health 18:23 – How to approach conversations with care, not criticism 20:05 – Building emotional intelligence to better support loved ones 20:17 – Bonus caregiver tip: using a screening tool for postpartum depressionExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

For too long, depression has been unfairly labeled as a weakness. Psychiatrist Dr. Tim Cantopher, author of The Curse of the Strong, offers a very different perspective: depression often strikes those who are most diligent, reliable, and strong.In this conversation, Dr. Cantopher explains why the very qualities that make people dependable—responsibility, perseverance, sensitivity—can also put them at risk of burnout and major depression. He shares why reframing depression as an illness of the strong is not just comforting, but life-saving, helping people seek treatment without shame.This episode offers both validation and practical advice for anyone living with depression, challenging stereotypes and replacing stigma with strength.Link to Dr. Cantopher's book if you're interested in learning more: Depressive Illness: The Curse Of The Strong: The Curse of the Strong (3rd Edition): Cantopher, Tim: 9781847092359: Amazon.com: BooksPrimary Topics CoveredWhy depression is not a weakness, but often affects the strongest peopleInsights from psychiatrist Dr. Tim Cantopher’s book The Curse of the StrongCommon personality traits of people who develop depressionHow self-criticism and neglecting personal needs fuel depressionWhy reframing depression as strength encourages people to seek helpThe “blown fuse” analogy: how stress overwhelms the brainTools for preventing future depressive episodes (balance, mindfulness, self-care)The importance of treating yourself with the same kindness you show othersTimestamps:00:00 – Welcome and introduction to the episode  02:18 – Community voices: “Depression is ______”  02:35 – Introducing Dr. Tim Cantopher and *The Curse of the Strong*  03:18 – Why depression is not weakness but strength  04:23 – Common personality traits in people with depression  05:11 – Why people with depression are often highly dependable  06:09 – Reframing traits as strengths, not vulnerabilities  06:37 – The stigma of weakness vs. the truth of strength  07:37 – Depression as the “Curse of the Strong” explained  09:21 – The “blown fuse” in the brain during major depression  10:04 – How therapy, mindfulness, and balance aid recovery  11:09 – The role of self-esteem in protecting mental health  11:48 – Learning to silence your inner critic  12:38 – Depression’s voice vs. your true self  13:41 – Treating depression like any other illness (not pushing through)  14:20 – The stress fracture analogy for recovery  15:06 – How to prevent recurrent episodes of depression  15:50 – The importance of pacing, balance, and self-care  17:20 – Practical questions to ask yourself: “What do I want? Where’s the balance?” 18:02 – Final reflections and key takeaways  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/

What if supporting a friend with depression was as natural as how Winnie the Pooh and his friends cared for Eeyore? In this episode, Sean shares his experience growing up in a household where mental health was openly discussed and accepted — an environment that shaped how he and his peers approach anxiety and depression with empathy and inclusion.From canceling plans without judgment to sending lighthearted texts during tough moments, Sean explains how his generation is reframing friendship, making space for honesty, and reducing stigma. Terry and Anita reflect on how these shifts in openness, compassion, and accommodation represent the kind of support that helps people living with depression feel less alone.Primary Topics Covered:Growing up in a household where mental health was normalizedHow openness around depression and anxiety fosters stronger friendshipsWhy inclusion and small acts of support make a big differenceThe role of social media in encouraging candid conversations about mental healthLessons from Eeyore: acceptance, friendship, and not leaving anyone behindTools Sean uses to manage depression, from dance and creativity to therapy and medicationTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction to the episode and guest, Sean 02:43 – Sean’s early experiences with anxiety and depression 03:34 – Growing up in a family that openly addressed mental health 05:08 – How social media influences openness around depression and anxiety 05:57 – Empathy and flexibility within Sean’s friend group 09:24 – The lessons of Eeyore: acceptance and inclusion in friendships 13:48 – Why staying connected matters when someone cancels plans due to depression 15:19 – Dance, creativity, and other coping tools Sean uses for mental health 17:00 – Starting medication and therapy as part of recovery 18:15 – The importance of honesty and trust in managing depression 19:44 – Anita and Terry reflect on generational progress in reducing stigma 21:56 – Building a culture of empathy, inclusion, and 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/

Depression rarely shows up overnight—it creeps in with subtle signs that can easily be overlooked. Recognizing those signs early is one of the most powerful ways to prevent a full-blown crisis.In this episode, Corinne shares her personal experience of learning to spot her own “scale” of depression, the steps she takes to stop a downward spiral, and why reaching out before you’re in crisis can save lives. She also explains how tools like therapy, support systems, and simple daily habits can make a big difference.This conversation is both a warning and a source of hope: if you know the signs of depression, you can act before it takes control.Link to 988 Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org/talk-to-someone-now/Link to Corinne's article: https://qz.com/1381952/suicide-hotlines-really-do-save-lives-i-know-because-one-saved-mine/Primary Topics Covered:Why sharing recovery stories matters, not just crisis storiesHow depression often escalates gradually, not suddenlyUsing a “scale” system to recognize early signs of depressionWarning signs that your mental health may be worseningThe importance of trusted support systemsHow shame, silence, and isolation worsen depressionProactive coping tools: therapy, sleep, exercise, meditationWhy you don’t have to wait until crisis to get helpTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction and episode overview  02:04 – Corinne’s recovery story: hope after crisis  03:13 – Why we need recovery stories, not just survival stories  04:30 – How depression builds slowly, like a scale  05:32 – Creating a “scale” to recognize your own warning signs  06:31 – Steps Corinne takes when she feels herself sliding  07:18 – The role of trusted friends and family in early support  07:58 – Why reaching out feels hard but saves lives  08:41 – How to distinguish sadness from clinical depression  09:49 – What crisis lines can and can’t do for recovery  10:25 – How a hotline interrupts dangerous moments  11:02 – Breaking silence: honesty as a survival skill  12:15 – Why honesty is a gift, not a weakness  12:47 – The power of small interventions in recovery  13:18 – “Few problems thrive in silence, isolation, and shame.”  13:42 – Closing reflections and encouragement to act early  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/

Corinne never thought she would be the one to dial a suicide hotline. A journalist, wife, and mother surrounded by loved ones, she believed crisis lines were for “other people.” But when depression convinced her family would be better off without her, she found herself on the edge of acting on those thoughts.In this episode, Corinne shares how picking up the phone and calling a crisis line saved her life. She opens up about the lies depression tells, the shame that keeps people silent, and the moment she realized there were compassionate listeners ready to help.This story is a reminder that suicidal thoughts don’t always look how we imagine—and that crisis lines are for anyone in need of support, whether or not you’re suicidal.Link to Corinne's article: https://qz.com/1381952/suicide-hotlines-really-do-save-lives-i-know-because-one-saved-mine/Link to 988 Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org/Primary Topics CoveredCorinne’s lived experience with depression and suicidal thoughtsMisconceptions about who crisis lines are “for”The lies depression tells: secrecy, shame, and distorted thinkingHow medication changes during pregnancy triggered relapseWhy people mask depression while appearing “fine” externallyThe moment suicidal thoughts escalated into a planWhat actually happens when you call a crisis line (and what to expect)The importance of language in asking for help (“psychological emergency”)Why crisis lines are for anyone in distress, not just those suicidalRecovery as an ongoing process: therapy, medication, and supportTimestamps:00:00 – Welcome and episode introduction  02:13 – Corinne’s story: never imagining she’d call a crisis line  03:11 – Depression’s lies: “You’re a burden”  04:12 – Shame and silence vs. privacy and trust  05:08 – Stopping medication during pregnancy and relapse risk  05:50 – Masking depression: appearing fine while falling apart  07:22 – Protective factors falling away: therapy, meds, support  08:07 – Depression convincing her that dark thoughts were “truths”  08:59 – Suicidal thoughts intensify: family would be better off without her  09:32 – Making a plan, then realizing she couldn’t follow through  10:05 – Calling the crisis line: what actually happened  10:53 – Being told to say: “I’m having a psychological emergency”  11:36 – Why words and language are powerful in getting help  12:10 – What to expect: brief holds and call routing explained  13:14 – Crisis lines as a 24/7 tool for anyone in distress  13:49 – Recovery isn’t instant: therapy, medication, and daily effort  14:27 – Closing reflections and gratitude for crisis line staff  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/