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

What role does family history play in depression and other mental health conditions? In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, guest Matt Zinman shares his lived experience of growing up in a family deeply impacted by bipolar disorder, depression, and suicide attempts. His story highlights how genetics and environment often intersect, shaping the way depression shows up across generations.Matt also opens up about his own struggles with depression, suicidal ideation, and the difficult emotions that arise when loved ones attempt or die by suicide. Alongside Terry, Bridget, and Dr. Anita, this conversation explores the complicated mix of anger, grief, compassion, and hope that accompany living with depression in families where mental health struggles are part of the legacy.Listeners will come away with a better understanding of why depression can feel "inherited," what research actually says about genetics and mental health, and the importance of building supportive networks and tools for resilience.Primary Topics Covered:What research tells us about genetics and depressionHow family history increases risk for mental illnessGrowing up with a parent living with bipolar disorder and depressionThe long-term impact of parental suicide attemptsCoping with a sibling’s death and opioid strugglesThe complexity of anger, grief, and compassion after suicideMedication struggles and suicidal ideation as a side effectThe gaps in mental health care and why inpatient treatment can be necessaryBuilding a personal “safety net” of supportive peopleTimestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to the podcast and hosts 01:34 – The role of genetics in depression and mental health disorders 02:21 – Sisters’ reflections on family history of depression and bipolar disorder 03:11 – Guest introduction: Matt Zinman’s lived experience 04:07 – Growing up with a bipolar father and depressive mother 05:21 – Early exposure to suicide attempt as a child 06:13 – Anger, confusion, and disconnect after a parent’s attempt 07:10 – Matt’s first personal experiences of depression 08:00 – The loss of his brother and the opioid crisis impact 08:31 – Holding both anger and compassion for loved ones lost to suicide 11:05 – Medication struggles and suicidal ideation as a side effect 12:22 – The gaps in accessible, ongoing mental health care 13:33 – Why focusing on people who “lift us up” matters 14:42 – The complexity of emotions when loved ones struggle with suicide 16:16 – Bridget shares her own medication-induced depression experience 17:28 – Closing reflections and reminder to not believe everything your brain tells youExplore 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 depression and addiction occur together, the struggle is even greater. This is called a dual diagnosis, and it requires unique approaches to treatment and recovery.In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Don shares his lived experience with depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, and how he eventually found a path toward healing. He discusses early misdiagnoses, the importance of honesty in therapy, and how support groups and the VA’s mental health system became essential lifelines.Don’s story is a powerful reminder that recovery is possible, even when depression and addiction feel overwhelming. By leaning on peer support, healthy coping tools, and persistence, he demonstrates that dual diagnosis does not have to define you — healing can.Link to NAMI Dual Diagnosis Fact Sheet: https://www.nami.org/NAMI/media/NAMI-Media/Images/FactSheets/Dual-Diagnosis-FS.pdfPrimary Topics Covered:What dual diagnosis means and how depression and addiction overlapDon’s personal experience with depression, anxiety, and substance abuseWhy early misdiagnosis can delay recoveryThe role of support groups, peer networks, and the VA in healingCoping tools for managing depression and preventing relapseWhy honesty in therapy is key for progressThe importance of breaking stigma through lived experienceTimestamps: 00:00 – Introduction and podcast milestone 02:48 – What dual diagnosis means: depression plus substance use disorder 04:46 – Don’s early experiences with depression and anxiety 05:32 – Misdiagnosis and finding the right treatment 08:43 – Struggles with addiction and early recovery 10:26 – Building a support network and staying connected 11:58 – Don’s positive experience with VA mental health care 13:27 – Music as a tool for managing depression and anxiety 15:22 – Why early intervention in depressive episodes matters 17:25 – Communicating needs during depression 19:17 – What real support looks like from loved ones 21:28 – Helping others through lived experience 22:28 – Fighting stigma with honesty and storytelling 24:28 – Final takeaways from Don’s journeyExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

After losing her son Jake to suicide, Jeannie transformed her grief into action by creating the “Check on Your Friends” movement. What started as a memorial within the car drifting community has become an international suicide prevention effort, spreading awareness through events, bumper stickers, and direct financial and emotional support for those in need.In this episode, Jeannie shares how small reminders like stickers and simple gestures of connection can save lives. She also explains how her community now funds therapy, rent, groceries, and other needs for people struggling with depression, turning tragedy into hope. This is a conversation about love, resilience, and the power of showing up for one another.Primary Topics Covered:How the “Check on Your Friends” movement began after Jake’s passingThe role of car culture in raising awareness and building support networksThe global reach of simple reminders like bumper stickers and hashtagsDirect financial and emotional support for struggling individualsThe hope contagion: how sharing stories of survival and support spreads lightWhy unconditional love and less judgment create stronger safety netsTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction to the podcast and hosts 01:00 – Remembering Jake and his early struggles with depression 02:00 – How the car drifting community rallied after Jake’s death 03:50 – The birth of “Check on Your Friends” and Rio Bash events 04:40 – The power of bumper stickers and global outreach 06:30 – Spreading hope through unexpected reminders 07:10 – Using funds to support mental health needs directly 09:00 – The importance of community-driven support systems 10:40 – Suicide contagion vs. hope contagion 12:00 – Jeannie’s role as a safe listener and guide to resources 13:40 – The importance of unconditional love and connection 15:00 – Honoring Jake through acts of support and kindness 16:20 – Reflections on Jeannie’s resilience and message of hope 19:30 – Final reminders: you are worthy, loved, and deserving of 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 happens when a parent does “everything right” — early intervention, therapy, open communication — and still loses their child to suicide?In this deeply moving episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Jeanie shares the story of her son Jake, a brilliant and compassionate young man whose struggles with depression and bipolar disorder began in childhood. Despite 19 years of love, support, and open conversations about his pain, Jake’s life ended by suicide at age 26.Through Jeanie’s story, we confront the painful reality that suicide isn’t always preventable — even when parents are vigilant, compassionate, and proactive. Together with co-hosts Terry and Dr. Anita Sanz, we explore how parents can live with that knowledge, why stigma must be broken, and how to support families carrying this unthinkable loss.This is not just a story about loss — it’s about resilience, truth-telling, and honoring the full lives of those we love.Primary Topics Covered:The challenges of parenting a child with depression and bipolar disorderWhy early intervention and open communication matter — even if outcomes don’t changeThe emotional toll of living for years with fear of losing a child to suicideUnderstanding that suicide is not the parent’s faultThe importance of honest conversations about mental illness and suicidal thoughtsHow turning pain into advocacy (#CheckOnYourFriends) can create community impactTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction: Why these stories matter 01:24 – Where podcast guests come from and why conversations matter 02:13 – The bumper sticker that led to today’s story (#CheckOnYourFriends) 03:28 – Remembering Jake: his brilliance, humor, and compassion 05:12 – Early signs of depression and suicidal thoughts at age 7 07:17 – The lifelong weight Jake carried: empathy, pain, and bipolar disorder 09:08 – The night Jeanie knew something was wrong 10:03 – The morning she felt her father and son’s presence 11:22 – Living in shock after suicide loss 12:20 – Coping with depression as a parent after loss 13:15 – The constant fear and anxiety of caregiving for a suicidal child 16:04 – What Jeanie wishes other parents knew: the power of open-door honesty 18:43 – #CheckOnYourFriends: turning grief into action 19:56 – Reflections on depression, bipolar disorder, and suicide risk 22:36 – Why suicide isn’t about blame — and why stigma must end 23:09 – Closing thoughts: bringing understanding and 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/

What does “normal” look like when you’re living with depression? For Tara, it’s not what society tells her it should be—it’s the small victories: taking a shower, cooking a meal, getting through the day.In this episode, Tara shares her lifelong journey with panic attacks, trauma, grief, and depression. She opens up about the shame of struggling through college, the guilt of not being fully present as a mother, and the daily fight to hold onto hope. With courage and honesty, she explains how asking for help, redefining “normal,” and choosing to stay alive are acts of strength—not weakness.Her story is a reminder that living with depression is not about fitting into someone else’s definition of normal—it’s about finding your own.Primary Topics Covered:Tara’s early panic attacks and childhood traumaHow naming her anxiety brought both relief and new challengesTransition from anxiety to depression in college and the shame of being unable to functionGrief and loss as triggers for worsening depressionThe impact of depression on work, relationships, and parentingExplaining depression to her children and the guilt of not being fully presentWhy asking for help feels like a burden—and how to push past that fearRedefining “normal” when living with depressionThe power of simple support: “I may not understand, but I’m available to you.”How therapy, medication, and honesty keep her alive and groundedTimestamps:00:00 – Intro and welcome  01:19 – Why sharing stories helps normalize depression  02:15 – Tara’s struggle with shame and embarrassment about depression  03:00 – The importance of asking for help, even if it feels like a burden  04:22 – Offering support: “I may not understand, but I’m available to you.”  05:20 – Tara’s lifelong battle with anxiety and depression  06:20 – Childhood trauma: surviving a drunk driving accident at age 4  07:38 – Discovering the name for her panic attacks as a teenager  08:47 – Relief of being diagnosed and starting treatment  09:25 – Depression taking hold in college and the shame of not functioning  10:14 – Grief and loss worsening depression in adulthood  10:48 – Impact of depression on work, family, and friendships  12:09 – Explaining depression to her children with honesty and love  13:42 – Redefining “normal” while living with depression  14:56 – Her daughter’s reminder: “You choose every day to be here.”  15:13 – Closing reflections: asking for help, telling your truth  15:43 – Outro and reminder: you are not alone  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/

NFL Hall of Famer Brian Dawkins opens up about his battle with depression, suicidal thoughts, and the powerful lessons he’s learned in facing mental health struggles. Known as one of the toughest players in the league, Dawkins reveals how vulnerability, therapy, and faith gave him tools to survive—and thrive—beyond football. His story sheds light on the importance of breaking stigma, building support systems, and finding strength in speaking up.Whether you’re a sports fan, someone living with depression, or supporting a loved one, Brian’s candid reflections offer both inspiration and practical guidance on navigating mental health challenges.Primary Topics Covered:Brian Dawkins’ early struggles with depression during his NFL careerThe role of stigma, masculinity, and silence in worsening mental healthHow therapy, faith, and medication changed his lifeThe concept of a “blessed pack” and the importance of support systemsParenting, vulnerability, and breaking unhealthy generational patternsWhy authenticity and unmasking brought him freedomTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction and milestone 100th episode 02:09 – Brian Dawkins’ NFL legacy and Hall of Fame speech on depression 03:35 – What Dawkins thought depression was before experiencing it 05:21 – How stigma and masculinity shaped his silence 06:35 – The power of having a “blessed pack” of supportive people 07:38 – Parenting lessons: teaching kids emotional openness 09:20 – The double-edged sword of faith in mental health struggles 11:05 – Dawkins’ darkest moments and suicidal thoughts 12:34 – Wearing the mask: hiding depression during his career 13:41 – Finding freedom in vulnerability and unmasking 15:22 – Daily disciplines and mindset shifts for resilience 16:47 – Final message: “You are worth the fight”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/

In this inspiring episode, Paula shares her powerful story of living with depression, confronting stigma, and ultimately finding hope. Though known for her outgoing and energetic personality, Paula battled privately with dark days, isolation, and suicidal thoughts. She opens up about how prayer, therapy, and community helped her heal, and how podcasting became a lifeline that gave her purpose and connection.Listeners will hear how Paula courageously spoke out online about her depression—shattering silence and stigma in her family and community—and how that honesty built bridges with others who were struggling. She reminds us that depression doesn’t look the same for everyone and that recovery requires persistence, self-awareness, and community support.This episode offers hope, honesty, and practical takeaways for anyone living with depression or supporting someone who is.Primary Topics Covered:The hidden side of depression behind an outgoing personalityHow cultural stigma around mental health shaped Paula’s silenceTurning points: prayer, reaching out, and speaking up publiclyHow podcasting and storytelling became tools for healingThe importance of community, friendships, and healthy boundariesWhy different coping strategies work for different peopleReframing recovery as an ongoing, personal journeyTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction to Paula’s story 02:30 – Breaking the stereotype of what depression “looks like” 04:30 – Mistaking depression for homesickness while living abroad 05:45 – Dark days, loneliness, and suicidal thoughts 07:10 – Turning to prayer and opening up to her parents 08:00 – Sharing publicly about depression on Instagram 10:00 – The role of community and shared stories in healing 11:30 – Starting her podcast and the unexpected support it brought 12:50 – Giving herself permission to feel but setting limits 13:40 – Friends and hobbies as coping strategies 15:20 – Letting go of toxic relationships and influences 17:00 – Finding supportive, authentic communities 18:50 – How Paula “exploded” the stigma by speaking out 20:30 – Closing reflections and resources for mental health 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 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/