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

When a parent lives with depression, the impact extends beyond the individual—it ripples into the family, especially children. In this moving episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Kathleen shares her deeply personal story of parenting while struggling with depression. She reflects on how her children were affected, the guilt she carried, and the steps she took to support them through her mental health journey.Together with host Terry, this episode explores the importance of honest communication, practical strategies for supporting children, and the reminder that love and presence—even when imperfect—make a profound difference.Link to the Little Hearts Project website: https://www.thelittleheartproject.org/Primary Topics Covered:How parental depression affects children emotionally and psychologicallyThe guilt parents carry when they struggle with mental healthWhy open conversations about depression matter for kidsStrategies to support children while managing your own mental healthBreaking cycles of silence and stigma within familiesReassurance that imperfect parenting can still provide love and stabilityTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction and episode context 01:12 – Kathleen shares her experience with depression as a parent 03:05 – The guilt of parenting while struggling with mental health 05:30 – How children are emotionally impacted by a parent’s depression 08:17 – The importance of honesty and openness with kids 11:22 – Practical ways to support children while healing yourself 14:00 – Breaking the cycle of silence and stigma in families 16:19 – Reframing parental guilt with compassion 18:42 – Reminders for parents: love and presence matter most 20:06 – 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/

Depression doesn’t look the same for everyone. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Liz shares her personal journey through two very different forms of depression — one triggered by grief and trauma, and another caused by chemical imbalance.Her story sheds light on the spectrum of depression, from episodes that eventually lift to treatment-resistant forms that require long-term strategies. Liz describes what worked for her, including therapy, medication, and self-care tools like music, meditation, and time in nature.She also explains how support from others helped her identify her depression when she couldn’t see it herself, and how she now pays it forward by encouraging others to seek help and break free from stigma.Links to "Signs of Depressions" resources:https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9290-depressionhttps://mhanational.org/conditions/depressionPrimary Topics Covered:The two “types” of depression Liz experiencedHow grief-related depression differs from chemical imbalanceThe role of medication and therapy in recoveryThe importance of persistence when treatments don’t work right awaySelf-care tools that support healing (music, meditation, nature, acupuncture)Why support systems and being “present” matter so muchHow to help a friend or loved one who may be strugglingBreaking the silence and stigma around depressionTimestamps: 00:00 – Introduction from Bridget and Terry 00:47 – Introducing Liz and her story 02:03 – Liz explains the two different forms of depression she’s faced 02:55 – Grief- and trauma-related depression that eventually lifted 02:58 – Depression caused by chemical imbalance and why it felt different 03:13 – Therapy and medication: finding what works 03:46 – The role of persistence and hard work in recovery 04:10 – How someone else first recognized Liz’s depression 04:25 – Helping a friend accept and seek treatment 05:21 – Self-care practices that support Liz’s healing 05:41 – The importance of being present and listening 06:26 – How support can look in simple, everyday ways 07:08 – Breaking the silence and talking openly about depression 07:38 – Final reflections on support and reducing stigma 11:03 – Closing thoughts and outroExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Childhood depression often hides in plain sight — mistaken for shyness, teenage moodiness, or simply “a phase.” But the truth is, children can experience depression deeply, and without support, the consequences can follow them into adulthood.In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Sally shares her powerful story of living with depression from the age of ten — how her sadness went unnoticed, how poetry became an early cry for help, and how decades later she’s determined to raise awareness so other children don’t suffer in silence.Listeners will learn how to recognize the early warning signs of childhood depression, why stigma prevents families from acting, and how parents, teachers, and mentors can step in to support kids before their struggles become lifelong burdens.Link to Cleveland Clinic article: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14938-depression-in-childrenLink to CDC article: https://www.cdc.gov/childrensmentalhealth/depression.htmlPrimary Topics Covered:Sally’s story: living with childhood depression in the 1960sHow sleep changes, grief, and sadness can be overlooked as normal behaviorThe impact of losing a supportive grandparent and lack of guidance afterwardPoetry and dark writings as early indicators of depressionTeachers noticing — but families ignoring — signs of distressHow stigma and silence prevented early interventionThe role of medication and therapy later in lifeSally’s reflections on resilience and building a career despite depressionAdvice for today’s parents, teachers, and mentors: tuning in and taking actionWhy early recognition of childhood depression can save livesTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction  01:00 – Why childhood depression is often misunderstood  01:20 – Sally reflects on her 10- and 13-year-old self  02:17 – Childhood sadness, excessive sleeping, and feeling “different”  03:26 – Losing her grandmother and the lack of family support  04:12 – Using poetry as an outlet for deep sadness  05:09 – Teacher notices dark writing, but parents dismiss concerns  06:08 – Rediscovering letters that showed signs at age 10  07:30 – What her grandmother could have done differently  08:42 – Depression diagnosis at 21 and first effective medication  09:32 – Experiencing happiness for the first time in decades  10:06 – The reality of managing medication 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 depression in kids  15:39 – How early support could have changed her life’s trajectory  17:16 – Closing reflections and community 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/

Video games aren’t just entertainment — for many, they’re a lifeline during tough times. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we explore how gaming can reduce stress, ease anxiety, and provide relief for those living with depression.Our guest shares how video games became a healthy outlet during periods of mental health struggles, and we discuss the research-backed benefits of gaming for relaxation, social connection, and emotional well-being. Whether you’re a gamer yourself or simply curious about the role of gaming in mental health, this conversation offers practical insights, validation, and hope.If you’ve ever wondered how something as simple as gaming could help you cope with life’s challenges, this episode will help you see the positive side of play.Related links:BetterPlay Studios | Good Games, Good for YouHow To Raise a Healthy GamerHG Coaching Resources + Tools (healthygamer.gg)Video Games and Mental Health: Risk Factors and Benefits (psychcentral.com)Primary Topics Covered:Why video games can be beneficial for mental healthHow gaming provides stress relief and emotional regulationThe connection between video games and depression recoveryGaming as a healthy coping strategy for anxietyThe role of social connection in online gamingBalancing gaming with real-life responsibilitiesHow different genres of games can influence moodBreaking stigma around gaming and mental healthTimestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 01:42 – Guest shares personal story of gaming and mental health 06:18 – Why video games help reduce stress and anxiety 12:07 – Gaming as a coping strategy for depression 17:50 – The role of online community and social support in gaming 23:14 – Research on gaming and mental health benefits 28:39 – Healthy gaming vs. problematic gaming 34:20 – Practical tips for using gaming in your wellness plan 39:56 – Final 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/

When you’re living with depression, basic tasks can feel like climbing mountains. This episode is about removing the shame from that reality—and giving you permission to survive in the smallest, kindest ways possible.Mental health educator and Cereal for Dinner founder Emily Derecktor returns to walk us through shame-free survival tips for hard days. From hygiene hacks to meal shortcuts to breaking the dishes into “just take out the trash today,” you’ll hear evidence-based tools that are easy to miss in traditional self-care advice. Plus, learn how behavioral activation works—and why getting out of bed isn’t a character test.This is the episode to return to when you’re in the thick of it and need a voice that says, “You’re not lazy. You’re surviving. And that counts.”Cereal for Dinner's Website: www.cerealfordinner.org/Primary Topics Covered:How shame keeps people from talking about functioning challengesThe internal voice that says “you should be doing more” and how to quiet itWhy even the smallest acts—like moving under a blanket—are valid winsTools and mental workarounds for hygiene, cleaning, and nutritionBreaking big tasks into tiny phases without guiltGiving yourself permission to “do it badly” instead of not at allUsing behavioral activation to create momentum (not motivation)Finding dignity in low-energy meals, disposable dishes, and routinesCreating a prep plan for your future self when symptoms returnBuilding trust with yourself through compassionate daily choicesTimestamps:00:00 Welcome back and episode reintroduction  01:02 The hidden shame around “not functioning” with depression  02:15 Why “trying harder” isn't the answer  03:21 Emily on reframing low-functioning days with self-compassion  04:12 How survival looks different for everyone—and that’s okay  05:18 “Do it badly” vs. doing nothing at all  06:43 Bedside baskets, dry hygiene tools, and intentional laziness  08:07 Tiny wins: even lifting your head can be a success  09:12 Eating when you can’t cook: judgment-free food solutions  10:34 Cleaning in shame-free phases: permission to go slow  11:49 Helping future-you: stocking supplies for hard days  13:06 How behavioral activation works when motivation is gone  14:38 Letting apps, alarms, or friends help guide your day  15:29 The emotional weight of mess—and what to do about it  16:33 Accepting support: cleaning help, prepared food, and connection  17:52 Building a mental health toolkit rooted in kindness  18:30 Encouragement to stop comparing yourself to others  19:46 Where to find more tools and resources from *Cereal for Dinner*  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 powerful episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Emily Director shares her journey of living with depression in college and beyond. From struggling with loneliness at Brown University to creating peer-support programs at Penn, Emily’s story captures both the weight of depression and the hope found in resilience and connection. She discusses her hospitalization, the ongoing challenges of severe depression, and how reframing emotions helped her reclaim moments of joy. Emily’s voice reminds us that while recovery is not linear, community, support, and self-compassion can carry us through.Link to Cereal for Dinner's website: www.cerealfordinner.org/Primary Topics Covered:Emily’s early experiences with depression at Brown UniversityHow environment and loneliness contribute to mental health strugglesCreating peer-support initiatives and mental health resources at PennLeaving medical school, identity loss, and the impact of hospitalizationThe waxing and waning nature of depression over a lifetimeLearning to process “negative” emotions without fearDiscovering joy again after years of numbnessThe importance of peer support and community in recoveryTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction by hosts Terry and Dr. Anita Sanchez 01:23 – Introducing guest Emily Director 03:05 – Academic background and Ivy League pressures 03:42 – Depression and loneliness at Brown University 04:26 – Family history of mental illness (“the Director curse”) 05:17 – Transferring schools and mental health advocacy at Penn 06:46 – Creating a peer counseling program and screening tool 07:26 – Depression as a spectrum, unique for each person 08:53 – Medical school struggles and worsening depression 10:01 – Leaving med school, identity loss, and hospitalization 11:32 – The role of therapy and recognizing PTSD 12:11 – Accepting sadness and reframing emotions 13:35 – Naming emotions to reduce panic about sadness 15:20 – Depression as an ongoing, waxing-waning condition 16:18 – Experiencing joy again after long numbness 17:02 – Fear of losing support during recovery 18:32 – Daily struggles with basic tasks during depression 19:17 – Co-host reflections on debilitating depression 20:30 – Practical tips for functioning (preview of next episode) 21:38 – Power of peer support and community invitation 22:27 – Call for listener engagement and feedback 22:47 – 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/

When it comes to New Year’s resolutions, many of us set big goals that can feel overwhelming and unsustainable. But what if the key to lasting change — and better mental health — is found in small, intentional steps? In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we explore the powerful connection between exercise, movement, and mental health.Our guest, exercise psychologist and health coach Michelle Elmer, shares how reframing movement as a tool for mental well-being can reduce stress, lift depression, and help us feel more in control of our lives. Whether it’s taking a short walk, stretching, or simply moving your body with compassion instead of punishment, you’ll hear why small shifts in how you approach exercise can lead to profound benefits for both body and mind.This episode offers encouragement for anyone feeling stuck, anxious, or self-critical as they look ahead to a new year. Instead of aiming for perfection, we discuss how to cultivate self-compassion, celebrate progress, and use movement as a foundation for healing.Adel Korkor's TEDx Talk: (61) Motion Impacts Emotion: My Journey With How Running Saved My Life | Adel B. Korkor, M.D. | TEDxOcala - YouTube Link to Article quoted in episode: Depression and anxiety: Exercise eases symptoms - Mayo ClinicIntentions/Resolutions read at end of episode: 8 Alternatives to New Year’s Resolutions If You Live With Mental Illness (themighty.com) Primary Topics Covered:Why most New Year’s resolutions fail and how to make sustainable onesThe mental health benefits of exercise and movementHow self-compassion creates lasting changeShifting from punishment-based exercise to joy-based movementUsing small, consistent actions to reduce stress and improve moodReframing physical activity as a form of self-care, not disciplineEncouragement for those struggling with depression or anxiety during the New YearHow exercise can be a protective factor in recovery and daily mental healthTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction and episode overview 02:10 – Why most New Year’s resolutions fail 05:22 – The link between exercise and mental health benefits 08:47 – Self-compassion vs. self-criticism when setting goals 12:15 – Shifting from punishment-based exercise to movement for joy 16:42 – How small steps lead to sustainable progress 21:03 – Using movement as a daily stress-relief practice 24:30 – Encouragement for listeners struggling with depression in the New Year 28:12 – Final thoughts: Why movement is one of the best resolutions for mental healthExplore 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, Charlotte Underwood shares her deeply personal story of surviving teenage depression. Looking back, she reflects on the lies depression told her, the hidden strength she didn’t realize she had, and the treatments and support that helped her build a brighter future.Charlotte offers the perspective she wishes her younger self could have known: that she wasn’t alone, that healing is possible, and that life can become meaningful again. Her story provides a message of hope, compassion, and encouragement for teens, parents, and anyone navigating depression.This episode is both a validation of the pain of teen depression and a reminder that recovery is possible with support, resilience, and the right tools.Primary Topics Covered:Charlotte’s teenage experience with depression and traumaWhat she wishes her younger self had known about mental illnessThe false narratives depression createsThe importance of family support and connectionWhy opening up is critical in healingTreatment, therapy, and self-care in recoveryDiscovering hope and building a meaningful lifeTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction by Terry and Anita 01:11 – The convincing lies of depression 01:36 – Charlotte’s holiday moment of gratitude that went viral 02:52 – Charlotte describes her teenage self and early struggles 03:57 – How she envisioned her future at age 14 04:23 – Surviving trauma, alcoholism, and self-harm 04:52 – The life she’s built in her 20s 05:41 – The night of baking cookies and dancing in her kitchen 07:10 – What she wishes she’d known about depression as a teen 07:56 – Hidden strength and resilience 08:53 – Family support and her father’s response to self-harm 10:15 – Keeping depression a secret vs. opening up 11:19 – The lie of being “alone” in depression 12:08 – What she wishes she’d known about treatment options 13:10 – Hope and believing in a future worth fighting for 14:20 – Charlotte’s message to teens and others struggling 16:09 – Terry and Anita reflect on resilience and strength 17:28 – Finding the spark of hope in dark times 19:00 – A quote on resilience and survival 19:55 – Upcoming holiday and New Year’s episodes 21:57 – Closing message and reminder: 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/

 For many, Christmas is not all “merry and bright.” If you’re grieving, feeling alone, or carrying heavy emotional weight this holiday, this episode is for you. In this special Christmas edition of Giving Voice to Depression, we share a heartfelt essay written and narrated by John Pavlovitz.His words offer understanding, compassion, and hope for anyone who finds themselves struggling during a season that often feels overwhelming. You’ll hear reminders that you are not alone in your pain and that brighter days are ahead, even if they feel out of reach right now.Whether you’re navigating loss, depression, or the difficulty of simply getting through today, this episode is meant to be a companion, letting you know you are loved and supported.Link to John Pavlovitz's essay: https://johnpavlovitz.com/2017/12/24/to-those-who-struggle-this-christmas/Primary Topics Covered:Why the holidays can feel especially heavy for those with depression or griefThe reality of losses, struggles, and unspoken battles during ChristmasA message of solidarity: You are not suffering aloneEncouragement that this season does not define your entire storyPractical reminders to accept Christmas as it is, without guiltTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction from Terry and the purpose of this special episode 00:48 – John Pavlovitz’s essay begins: a message to those struggling this Christmas 02:00 – Acknowledging grief, loss, depression, and broken dreams during the holidays 03:20 – Recognition of internal battles: depression, addiction, and self-hatred 04:20 – Reminders of solidarity: you are not alone in your pain 05:00 – Encouragement that this season is not the end of your story 05:37 – Closing reflections: the importance of speaking up and listeningExplore 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, Dr. Barbara Moser, a trained teacher in mindful self-compassion, offers three powerful, free tools for managing mental health. Designed to reduce stress, increase self-awareness, and support emotional regulation, these practices can be used anytime—no appointments, apps, or equipment required. You'll learn about the STOP technique, mindful breathing, and a self-compassion break, each backed by psychological research and neuroscience. Whether you're new to mindfulness or seeking extra tools for your mental health toolkit, this episode offers practical and proven resources to support your well-being.Link to research on mindfulness:American Mindfulness Research Association:goamra.org/resources/reviewsmeta-analysis/Primary Topics Covered:Importance of free, accessible mental health toolsOverview and benefits of the STOP practiceBreathing techniques to calm the nervous systemThe role of mindful self-compassion in emotional healingHow to adapt these techniques to different environments and needsTimestamps: 00:00 Intro 01:20 Co-host Introduction: Dr. Anita Sanz 02:06 Overview of Accessible Mental Health Tools 02:42 Grounding Exercise by Dr. Barbara Moser 09:21 Benefits of Daily Breathing Techniques 10:08 STOP Practice Explanation and Demonstration 14:22 Mindful Self-Compassion Break 22:32 Episode Closing and Community Invitation 23:16 Final Thoughts and Resources on Recovery.comExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/