Giving Voice to Depression

What does it mean to truly listen to someone who’s struggling with depression or anxiety? In this episode, we revisit an impactful conversation with Robert, a trained crisis line volunteer and retired teacher, who shares how listening without judgment can provide hope and even save lives.Robert offers insight into depression and anxiety as lifelong companions, the importance of boundaries when supporting loved ones, and why listening is one of the most powerful gifts we can offer. His story is both practical and deeply human, reminding us that empathy and presence matter far more than perfect advice.Whether you’re living with depression, supporting someone who is, or simply want to understand the role of listening in mental health recovery, this episode is a powerful guide.Primary Topics Covered:Why listening is one of the most effective ways to support someone with depression or anxietyThe difference between offering advice and offering presenceHow boundaries protect both the listener and the person in needThe role of hope in mental health recoveryHow sharing personal stories reduces stigma and builds connectionTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction and partnership with Recovery.com 01:32 – The importance of listening in mental health struggles 02:39 – Robert shares his dual perspective as both someone with depression and a crisis line volunteer 04:07 – Why Robert describes depression and anxiety as lifelong companions 05:28 – Advice vs. listening: how to support without dismissing 06:42 – The importance of healthy boundaries when supporting others 08:44 – How depression smothers hope and why hope is essential 11:08 – The power of sharing personal stories publicly 12:56 – How hearing others’ stories can help reduce stigma 14:22 – Why listening is a gift anyone can give 15:39 – Final reflections on empathy, understanding, 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/

Postpartum depression (PPD) is more common than most people realize—and yet it often goes unrecognized, unspoken, or dismissed as “just the baby blues.” In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Natasha shares her deeply personal story of struggling with postpartum depression after the birth of her first child.Through her journey, we explore the hidden signs of PPD, the challenges of stigma and self-doubt, and the importance of therapy, support systems, and persistence when asking “are you really okay?” This candid discussion sheds light on how postpartum depression can affect new mothers, partners, and families—and why speaking up early can make all the difference.Whether you’re a new parent, partner, or supporter, this episode offers powerful insights and practical advice for recognizing the symptoms of PPD and building a strong foundation of support.Links to Resources:Postpartum Depression: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment (clevelandclinic.org)Postpartum depression - Symptoms and causes - Mayo ClinicHome - Families for Depression Awareness (familyaware.org)Families for Depression Awareness - Depression and Bipolar Test (familyaware.org)Primary Topics Covered:Understanding the signs and risk factors of postpartum depressionWhy stigma and silence delay seeking helpThe role of partners, doulas, and support networksHow therapy and creative outlets can aid recoveryAdvice for new parents and those supporting themTimestamps: 00:00 – Introduction and partnership with Recovery.com 01:00 – What postpartum depression is and why it’s misunderstood 03:01 – Natasha’s early motherhood experience and the onset of symptoms 05:00 – Anxiety, fear, and the challenges of life changes 06:45 – Why many mothers dismiss their symptoms as weakness 08:30 – The breaking point and reaching out for support 09:42 – Beginning therapy and finding relief 11:37 – What Natasha wishes she’d known earlier 13:42 – Advice for partners and support systems 16:07 – How Natasha is preparing differently for her second child 18:04 – Clinical insights: postpartum depression vs. anxiety, OCD, and hormonal shifts 20:15 – Caregiver tip: recognizing warning signs and when to seek help 21:07 – Closing thoughts 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/

Postpartum depression (PPD) affects 1 in 8 new mothers, yet it often remains hidden behind stigma, shame, and the expectation of joy after childbirth. In this episode, Natasha shares her deeply personal journey through PPD—despite preparing for motherhood with education, intention, and love, her experience was overshadowed by overwhelming emotions she didn’t know how to name.She opens up about the fog, the guilt, and the fear of not being a good mother, and how cultural expectations of silence made seeking help even harder. Natasha also describes how therapy, her doula, and her husband’s support became lifelines that helped her begin to heal—not only from postpartum depression but from unprocessed pain rooted in her childhood.This honest and powerful story sheds light on why it’s essential to recognize the signs of PPD early, break the stigma, and create strong support systems for new mothers. Whether you’re a parent, partner, friend, or caregiver, this episode will help you better understand postpartum depression and how to support those who are struggling.Link to Resources: Home - Families for Depression Awareness (familyaware.org)Primary Topics Covered:What makes postpartum depression different from the “baby blues”Natasha’s experience preparing for motherhood and the unexpected reality afterwardHow cultural silence and pride can prevent mothers from seeking helpThe role of partners, doulas, and therapy in recoverySigns and symptoms of postpartum depression to watch forWhy early intervention and support networks matterTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction to the episode and hosts 01:27 – What postpartum depression really is (and how it differs from baby blues) 02:43 – Natasha’s story: from pregnancy preparation to unexpected struggles 04:19 – The impact of cultural silence around emotions and therapy 05:26 – Major life changes after birth and the hidden emotional battles 06:39 – Breaking point: Natasha’s emotional outburst and turning to her husband 07:44 – First steps toward therapy and why it was life-changing 09:08 – Recognizing symptoms: sadness, fear, inadequacy, and the “fog” 12:26 – Bonding challenges and the exhaustion of new motherhood 13:55 – The vital role of partner support in recovery 15:28 – Words of comfort: “You are not by yourself anymore” 16:16 – Why asking for help is not weakness but strength 16:55 – Caregiver tip: building a support network for new moms 17:43 – 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/

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we revisit Part 2 of an unforgettable story of compassion, connection, and hope. Jonny shares how a stranger, Neil, stopped to talk with him on a bridge at his darkest moment—changing the course of his life.But their story doesn’t end there. Years later, Jonny launched the viral #FindMike campaign, leading to their reunion and an ongoing friendship that has transformed into advocacy for mental health awareness and suicide prevention.Through their story, listeners will hear how simple acts of compassion can spark hope, shift perspectives, and even save lives. This conversation highlights the underestimated power of empathy, listening, and speaking openly about struggles with depression.Primary Topics Covered:The turning point of Jonny’s suicide crisis and Neil’s compassionate interventionThe emotional aftermath of being stopped and hospitalized against his willHow honest conversations about vulnerability can inspire recoveryThe viral #FindMike campaign and its surprising impactThe importance of hope, empathy, and compassion in suicide prevention and mental health advocacyTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction by Terry and Anita 01:35 – Recap of Part 1 and the events on the bridge 03:03 – Jonny reflects on regret, anger, and the shift toward hope 04:22 – Conversations that inspired Jonny to seek therapy and accept medication 05:40 – The launch of the #FindMike campaign 06:42 – Neil reflects on the campaign and its global impact 07:53 – The role of “silent heroes” in saving lives 09:20 – Neil explains why he chose to help that day 10:40 – The profound impact of listening and showing compassion 11:19 – How Jonny and Neil’s friendship grew after reconnecting 12:13 – Jonny’s perspective on hope, courage, and saving your own life 13:17 – Reflections on the underestimated power of hope 13:57 – Closing thoughts and reminder to speak up, listen, 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/

What difference can compassion make in someone’s darkest moment? In this powerful episode, we share the story of a stranger who stopped and listened when a young man was ready to end his life. Through empathy, patience, and the simple act of truly listening, he helped turn despair into hope. This conversation explores why compassion matters, how being present can save lives, and the ripple effects of kindness in moments of crisis.Primary Topics Covered:The role of compassion in supporting someone with depressionHow listening can be life-saving in crisis situationsOvercoming shame and stigma around mental illnessThe importance of empathy and patience in mental health careWhy everyday people—not just professionals—can make a differenceTimestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to the episode and hosts 01:25 – Partnership acknowledgment and episode background 02:20 – Neil describes seeing someone in crisis on a bridge 03:27 – Jonny shares his state of mind before the intervention 04:53 – The first moments of contact between Neil and Jonny 06:38 – Why compassion and listening broke through the shame 07:33 – Words that gave Jonny hope to step back from the edge 08:29 – Moving from crisis to safety—and a setback when police arrived 10:34 – Reflection on the impact of being listened to 11:21 – Choosing the episode title: compassion vs. giving a damn 12:17 – Why compassion matters more than just caring 13:01 – Closing thoughts and introduction to part twoExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Navigating conversations about mental health can be challenging. The discussion focuses on how to support friends or family members in crisis, emphasizing the importance of proactive kindness. Tips rooted in personal experiences highlight the need for active listening and avoiding unsolicited advice. Continuous support is crucial, even after signs of improvement. Breaking stigma around mental health encourages creating a non-judgmental community, reminding us that effective support skills are often not readily taught.

Sam Dylan Finch, a writer and mental health advocate, returns to share how friends have helped him through tough times. He emphasizes the importance of 'reaching in' when someone struggles, even if they're not asking for help. Sam discusses compassionate approaches, practical strategies for offering support, and the need for genuine check-ins with loved ones. He also highlights the significance of understanding depression to foster better connections and create a safe space for conversation.

Reaching out for help when you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts can feel impossible — especially when you don’t know what to say. In this episode, mental health advocate Sam Dylan Finch shares practical, word-for-word language you can use to ask for the support you need.From small requests for daily help to urgent crisis communication, Sam’s list provides 10 powerful phrases that break through stigma, silence, and uncertainty. Whether you’re the one struggling or someone who wants to better support a loved one, these tools can make the difference between isolation and connection.💡 If you’ve ever thought, “I don’t know how to ask for help,” this conversation gives you the language, courage, and strategies to reach out.Link to Sam's list:  https://letsqueerthingsup.com/2018/03/03/10-ways-to-reach-out-when-youre-struggling-with-your-mental-health/Primary Topics Covered:Why asking for help is harder than it soundsPractical, word-for-word phrases to use when reaching outHow to ask for specific daily-life support without shameThe healing power of reminiscing and asking for reminders of your valueHow to safely communicate urgent or suicidal feelingsWhy reaching out earlier — before crisis — saves livesOvercoming stigma and believing you are worthy of supportTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction and purpose of the conversation 01:02 - Why reaching out for help isn’t as simple as it sounds 01:35 - Sam Dylan Finch’s personal loss and realization about asking for help 02:22 - Why vague advice like “just ask for help” often fails 02:58 - Sam’s list of practical phrases begins 03:07 - What tools can help people survive between appointments? 04:08 - Phrase #6: Asking for help with a specific daily task 05:44 - Phrase #7: Asking for reminders of your value or favorite memories 06:56 - Healing through reminiscence and why it works 07:22 - Phrase #8: How to ask for urgent support when you’re near your limit 08:41 - Phrase #9: Reaching out to less-close connections for support 10:07 - Why you are worthy of new relationships, even when struggling 10:28 - Phrase #10: Directly saying “I’m suicidal. I need help right now.” 11:16 - Understanding mental health struggles as true emergencies 12:17 - Why loved ones would always rather be “bothered” than lose you 13:34 - Using these asks before reaching a crisis point 13:47 - Personal reflections on trying Sam’s suggestions 14:33 - Closing thoughts 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/

Reaching out when you’re struggling with depression can feel impossible—but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, writer and advocate Sam Dylan Finch joins us to share five practical, compassionate, and doable ways to ask for help.From finding the right words when you don’t know what you need, to asking for a check-in that can make all the difference, Sam’s tips give language and structure to one of the hardest parts of mental health recovery: reaching out.If you’ve ever wondered how to ask for help—or if you’re worried about overwhelming others—this episode will give you clear, realistic ways to connect with support before things spiral into crisis.Link to Sam Dylan Finch's list: https://letsqueerthingsup.com/2018/03/03/10-ways-to-reach-out-when-youre-struggling-with-your-mental-health/Primary Topics Covered:Why asking for help feels so hard when you’re depressedFive specific, practical phrases you can use when reaching outHow check-ins and small gestures can prevent a deeper crisisWhy support from loved ones is just as critical as professional careThe importance of early, upstream suicide preventionTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction to the episode and hosts 01:00 – Feedback from a previous episode on suicidal thoughts 02:40 – Why “reach out” can feel impossible when you’re struggling 04:00 – Introducing guest Sam Dylan Finch and his personal story 05:20 – Realization after a friend’s suicide and his own struggles 07:00 – Why loved ones are the first line of defense in a mental health crisis 08:35 – Tip #1: “I don’t know what I need, but I don’t want to be alone” 10:55 – Tip #2: “I’m struggling and what I’ve been trying isn’t working” 09:30 – Tip #3: “I don’t feel safe by myself right now” 10:24 – Tip #4: “I’m in a bad place, but I’m not ready to talk about it” 12:46 – Tip #5: “Can you check in on me at a specific time?” 14:30 – Why small gestures matter more than you think 16:59 – Early prevention vs. waiting until crisis hits 19:26 – Examples of simple yet powerful acts of support 20:01 – Preview of next episode: tips for when things are more severe 20:14 – Closing reflections and encouragement to speak upExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

When the pandemic forced him into isolation, John found himself at his darkest point—facing suicidal thoughts more serious than ever before. But instead of giving up, he reached for help. That decision began a powerful journey of living with depression, finding hope, and finally realizing he was not alone.In this episode, John shares how stigma and shame kept him from naming depression for years, why personal stories spoke to him more than clinical definitions, and how admitting “I live with depression” became the key to recovery. He also reflects on the courage it took to open up to his family and friends, and how even the smallest connections made him feel lighter and less alone.Hosts Terry and Bridget highlight the importance of stories like John’s—proof that depression’s lies can be challenged, healing is possible, and that speaking up has the power to save lives.Primary Topics Covered:How John’s depression worsened during the COVID-19 pandemicThe connection between suicidal thoughts and feelings of isolationWhy intellectual knowledge of depression isn’t enough without emotional understandingThe role of stigma in keeping men silent about depressionHow personal stories (vs. clinical definitions) helped John accept his illnessThe healing power of hearing “you are not alone”The importance of naming depression as an illness, not a character flawHow opening up to friends and family reduced shame and built connectionWhy sharing lived experiences helps others survive their darkest momentsDaily routines, self-care, and medication as anchors for recoveryPractical ways to “shift your state” when stuck in negative thought loopsTimestamps:00:00 – Intro and John’s connection to the podcast community  03:02 – How the pandemic triggered John’s deepest depression  05:01 – Facing suicidal thoughts while quarantined  05:35 – Calling his doctor, restarting medication, and starting therapy  06:00 – Searching for answers: why do these dark episodes keep happening?  06:31 – Realizing he had been living with depression all his life  07:28 – Depression’s lies: “You’re not good enough”  08:05 – The healing power of personal stories vs. clinical definitions  09:39 – What John wishes he could tell his past self about depression  10:24 – Depression is not weakness, shame, or a secret to hide  11:04 – Why reaching out for help feels impossible—but why it matters  11:55 – Sharing his depression with a friend (and finding out he wasn’t alone)  12:24 – Opening up to his mother: a Herculean step toward connection  13:10 – The secret so many people keep: silent struggles with depression  14:31 – Planning ahead: why reaching out works best before the crisis hits  16:22 – What life looks like for John now: medication, therapy, and daily routines  18:31 – Learning to say: “I’m worth taking care of myself.”  19:47 – Tools to interrupt negative thought loops (self-compassion, shifting state)  21:39 – Call to listeners: share your own strategies to stop depression’s cycles  22:25 – Closing reflections on John’s powerful contribution  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/