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

Latest Episodes:

Suicide Loss and Parenting: Why Doing Everything Right Doesn’t Always Prevent Tragedy Jun 11, 2024

Show notes

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 disorder
Why early intervention and open communication matter — even if outcomes don’t change
The emotional toll of living for years with fear of losing a child to suicide
Understanding that suicide is not the parent’s fault
The importance of honest conversations about mental illness and suicidal thoughts
How turning pain into advocacy (#CheckOnYourFriends) can create community impact

Timestamps:

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 hope

Explore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.com
Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/
Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/

Living with Depression: Redefining What ‘Normal’ Really Means Jun 04, 2024

Show notes

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 trauma
How naming her anxiety brought both relief and new challenges
Transition from anxiety to depression in college and the shame of being unable to function
Grief and loss as triggers for worsening depression
The impact of depression on work, relationships, and parenting
Explaining depression to her children and the guilt of not being fully present
Why asking for help feels like a burden—and how to push past that fear
Redefining “normal” when living with depression
The power of simple support: “I may not understand, but I’m available to you.”
How therapy, medication, and honesty keep her alive and grounded

Timestamps:

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

Depression and Suicidal Thoughts: Brian Dawkins’ Powerful Mental Health Journey May 28, 2024

Show notes

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 career
The role of stigma, masculinity, and silence in worsening mental health
How therapy, faith, and medication changed his life
The concept of a “blessed pack” and the importance of support systems
Parenting, vulnerability, and breaking unhealthy generational patterns
Why authenticity and unmasking brought him freedom

Timestamps:

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”

Breaking Mental Health Stigma: Paula’s Story of Depression and Healing May 21, 2024

Show notes

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 personality
How cultural stigma around mental health shaped Paula’s silence
Turning points: prayer, reaching out, and speaking up publicly
How podcasting and storytelling became tools for healing
The importance of community, friendships, and healthy boundaries
Why different coping strategies work for different people
Reframing recovery as an ongoing, personal journey

Timestamps:

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 support

Depression and Anxiety: Why Listening Can Save a Life May 14, 2024

Show notes

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 anxiety
The difference between offering advice and offering presence
How boundaries protect both the listener and the person in need
The role of hope in mental health recovery
How sharing personal stories reduces stigma and builds connection

Timestamps:

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 support

Postpartum Depression: Signs, Symptoms, and Real Stories of Recovery May 07, 2024

Show notes

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 Clinic
Home - 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 depression
Why stigma and silence delay seeking help
The role of partners, doulas, and support networks
How therapy and creative outlets can aid recovery
Advice for new parents and those supporting them

Timestamps:
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 resources

Postpartum Depression: Signs, Symptoms, and Finding Support Apr 30, 2024

Show notes

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 afterward
How cultural silence and pride can prevent mothers from seeking help
The role of partners, doulas, and therapy in recovery
Signs and symptoms of postpartum depression to watch for
Why early intervention and support networks matter

Timestamps:

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 encouragement

Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Recovery Stories: The Power of Compassion Apr 23, 2024

Show notes

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 intervention
The emotional aftermath of being stopped and hospitalized against his will
How honest conversations about vulnerability can inspire recovery
The viral #FindMike campaign and its surprising impact
The importance of hope, empathy, and compassion in suicide prevention and mental health advocacy

Timestamps:

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 support

Depression and Compassion: Why Small Acts of Kindness Matter Most Apr 16, 2024

Show notes

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 depression
How listening can be life-saving in crisis situations
Overcoming shame and stigma around mental illness
The importance of empathy and patience in mental health care
Why everyday people—not just professionals—can make a difference

Timestamps:
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 two

How to Help Someone with Depression: Practical Ways to Support a Loved One Apr 09, 2024

Show notes

Supporting a loved one with depression can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure what to say or do. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, guest Sam Dylan Finch shares 11 practical and compassionate ways his loved ones have helped him during mental health crises. From avoiding unsolicited advice to helping navigate the complex mental health system, Sam provides real-life examples of what genuine support looks like.

Hosts Terry and Dr. Anita Sanz also reflect on the importance of checking in—before, during, and even after someone seems better—and why keeping trust, showing up consistently, and offering nonjudgmental care can make the difference between hope and despair.

If you’ve ever wanted to know how to better support a friend, family member, or partner who is struggling with depression, this conversation is full of essential, real-world guidance.

Link to Sam's blog post with all 11 suggestions:
https://letsqueerthingsup.com/2018/08/24/11-important-ways-my-loved-ones-supported-me-during-a-mental-health-crisis/

Links to two previous episodes with ways to reach out:
1) https://www.buzzsprout.com/2032100/14697923
2)https://www.buzzsprout.com/2032100/14697981

Link to free Mental Health America screenings: https://screening.mhanational.org/screening-tools/

Primary Topics Covered:

Why unsolicited advice often does more harm than good
Practical ways to help someone navigate the mental health system
Balancing support and boundaries without creating feelings of abandonment
The importance of consistent check-ins, even after someone “seems better”
Language that fosters safety and trust during a mental health crisis

Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction to the episode and partnership with Recovery.com
01:31 – Shifting from asking for support to offering support
02:46 – Why unsolicited advice (like yoga or meditation) isn’t always helpful
04:42 – The challenge of navigating the mental health system alone
07:20 – How loved ones can advocate in medical and emergency settings
08:31 – Building and keeping trust, even when you disagree with choices
10:21 – Substance use, judgment, and safe conversations
11:10 – Why checking in after someone seems better is essential
12:33 – Balancing caregiver breaks with avoiding abandonment
14:06 – Not waiting for someone to ask for help—how proactive check-ins save lives
16:27 – The importance of follow-through and practical reminders
20:31 – “I’m not here to judge you, I just want to keep you safe”
21:59 – Why learning these skills makes the world more compassionate

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

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

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected