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

Latest Episodes:

Living With Depression, Anxiety, and Addiction: Don’s Dual Diagnosis Recovery Story Feb 07, 2023

Show notes

What does it mean to live with a dual diagnosis?

In this episode, Don shares his candid story of navigating clinical depression, anxiety, and substance use disorder—a combination often called a dual diagnosis.

After decades of silent suffering, Don finally received the correct diagnoses and found a treatment plan that worked, including medication, support groups, and telehealth through the VA. He talks openly about how depression convinced him he was worthless, how addiction fueled the darkness, and what finally helped him find hope again.

Don also shares how music, gratitude, and peer support networks became essential tools in his recovery. His story is a reminder that recovery is possible, stigma must be challenged, and sometimes just listening is the greatest form of support.

Primary Topics Covered:

What “dual diagnosis” really means
Don’s early struggles with undiagnosed depression and anxiety
Misdiagnosis of bipolar disorder and finding the right treatment
The role of medication (escitalopram and gabapentin) in his stability
Don’s history of substance use and recovery through AA/NA
How telehealth and the VA became a lifeline for mental health care
Music as a powerful coping tool against depression and anxiety
Why asking “How can I support you today?” matters
Challenging stigma by speaking openly about depression and addiction

Timestamps

00:05 Introduction and welcome
01:03 Podcast updates and live webinar announcement
02:06 What “dual diagnosis” means (mental illness + substance abuse)
03:15 Introducing Don and his story
04:21 Don’s early experiences with anxiety as a child
04:58 First diagnosis (misdiagnosed bipolar, later corrected)
06:05 Finding the right medication for depression and anxiety
07:59 How depression and anxiety feel without medication
08:10 Don’s history of substance use and recovery journey
09:03 Building a strong support network through AA/NA
09:56 The importance of connection, even long-distance, through technology
11:28 How telehealth with the VA transformed Don’s access to care
12:20 Why Don values the VA’s mental health services
13:07 Music as a daily coping tool and source of gratitude
14:58 Recognizing early signs of depressive episodes and acting quickly
15:50 The empathy and wisdom gained from lived experience
17:14 How friends and family can best support someone in depression
19:47 Why stigma is dangerous—and why Don refuses to stay silent
22:28 Closing reflections and reminders of 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/

Depression and Family Support: How Loved Ones Can Help in Recovery Jan 31, 2023

Show notes

What role does family play in depression recovery?

In this episode, Sandeep, a 33-year-old British-Asian woman, shares her journey through depression, OCD, and an eating disorder, and how her family became a vital part of her healing. From her father first recognizing red flags, to her mother creating a monthly “family trust circle” where everyone shares openly, Sandeep highlights the power of connection, communication, and empathy in managing depression.

She also opens up about her suicide attempt, what helped her hold on, and why she now advocates for open, stigma-free conversations about mental health. This conversation reminds us that recovery is not only personal, but communal—and that loved ones can play a life-saving role.

Primary Topics Covered:

How depression and eating disorders were first noticed in Sandeep’s life
The role of cultural stigma in silencing conversations about mental health
Her father’s intervention and family support during diagnosis
The mix of relief and shame that comes with receiving mental health labels
Surviving a suicide attempt and what shifted her thinking in that moment
Red flags families can watch for: withdrawal, anger, and behavioral changes
The Family Trust Circle: a structured way to share positives, struggles, and needs
Why listening without judgment is one of the most powerful supports
How connection—whether with family, peers, or online groups—can save lives
Changing the conversation from “you’re not alone” to “you’re not the only one”

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to the episode
01:09 Different ways to manage depression (therapy, medication, tools)
01:53 Introducing Sandeep’s story
02:41 Self-criticism, weight stigma, and childhood pressures
03:45 Early eating disorders and OCD diagnosis
04:50 Her father’s recognition of red flags
05:53 First doctor’s visit and getting a diagnosis
06:56 The relief and stigma of receiving labels
07:59 Reframing diagnoses and advocating for humanity beyond labels
08:59 Sandeep’s suicide attempt and internal conflict of voices
09:30 Her mother’s intervention that saved her life
10:43 How to check in with loved ones effectively
11:47 Warning signs: withdrawal, anger, temperament changes
13:18 Creating a Family Trust Circle for open dialogue
14:33 Why mental health check-ins must be safe, consistent, and trustworthy
16:15 Crisis resources: 988 in the U.S. and local hotlines abroad
16:51 Why it’s okay to not be okay—and to speak up
17:22 Reflections on family support and safe spaces
19:05 Extending trust circles to friends and chosen families
21:39 Emotional literacy and generational growth in mental health
22:39 The healing power of honest conversation
23:49 “You’re not the only one” vs. “You’re not alone”
25:05 Closing thanks and resources

How a Parent With Depression, Bipolar or Mental Illness Affects Children and Families Jan 24, 2023

Show notes

What happens when a child grows up with a parent who has depression or bipolar disorder?

In this powerful episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Michelle Dickinson shares what it was like to be raised by a mother living with untreated bipolar disorder. She recalls the unpredictability of her childhood, the pressure to keep the peace, and the lasting impact of always adjusting herself to her mother’s moods.

Michelle describes the confusion of thinking her mother’s illness was somehow her fault, and how years of therapy helped her separate her mom from her disease. Her story sheds light on the resilience children develop—and the struggles they carry into adulthood—when mental illness goes unacknowledged in the home.

The co-hosts also discuss practical, low-energy ways parents can protect and support their kids while managing their own depression. From honesty and modeling self-care to simple rituals of connection, they highlight how love and presence matter more than perfection.

If you’re a parent struggling with depression—or the child of one—this episode offers validation, understanding, and hope.

Link to Related resources: https://www.familyaware.org/

Link to Michelle's website: https://www.michelleedickinson.com/

Primary Topics Covered:

Michelle’s childhood experience with a mother who had bipolar disorder
How children often blame themselves for a parent’s mental illness
The emotional toll of walking on eggshells and being a “chameleon” child
Separating the parent from their disease
How stigma and lack of awareness in the 70s–80s shaped family life
Michelle’s own experience with depression and empathy for her mom
Practical tips for parents managing depression to support kids
Why kids need to hear “this is not your fault”
Small, low-energy rituals that build connection despite illness
Resources for families living with parental depression

Timestamps

00:11 Introduction and episode context
01:00 A son recognizes his father’s depression through a friend’s eyes
02:00 Remembering earlier interview with Michelle Dickinson
03:20 Michelle’s story: growing up with a mother with bipolar disorder
04:24 Her mother’s depressive and manic episodes
05:41 Hospitalizations and lack of family understanding
06:39 How Michelle blamed herself and tried to “be a good girl”
07:16 Adapting as a “chameleon” to survive
07:50 Feeling voiceless and unseen in her own home
08:26 Fear of bringing friends home due to stigma and embarrassment
09:41 Why Michelle shares her story publicly now
10:05 The message she wishes someone had told her as a child
11:08 Realizing her childhood was not “normal”
11:59 Learning to separate her mother from her illness
12:23 Processing her mother’s death and finding forgiveness
13:19 Michelle’s own depression and new understanding of her mom
14:51 The importance of care, medication, and responsibility in mental health
16:10 Over 15 million children live with a parent who has depression
18:06 Why honesty with kids about mental illness matters
18:47 How children internalize blame when parents don’t explain
21:15 Advances in awareness and support for families today
21:48 Parents managing depression and protecting their children
23:54 Low-energy rituals that help kids feel loved
25:27 Resources for families and closing reflections

What Depression Feels Like in the Moment: Real Stories of Darkness and Healing Jan 17, 2023

Show notes

What does depression feel like when you’re right in the middle of it?

In this candid episode of Giving Voice to Depression, author and advocate Gina Capobianco courageously shares her experience of recording while actively struggling through a depressive relapse. Instead of looking back from a place of distance, Gina offers a raw, unfiltered glimpse into the reality of living with depression in real time.

She talks about how depression stole the joy of her book launch, the weight of intrusive thoughts, and the ongoing struggle to find treatments that help. Yet even in the midst of the darkness, Gina continues to use her voice to advocate for awareness, break stigma, and remind others that healing is possible—even if recovery is a lifelong journey.

This episode is a rare and powerful insight into the lived experience of depression and the resilience it takes to keep showing up, even when hope feels far away.

Link to Gina's website: https://www.ginacapobianco.com/

Primary Topics Covered:

How depression “steals” opportunities, relationships, and joy
Gina’s relapse after TMS treatment and starting ketamine therapy
Why thoughts can be the hardest symptom to manage
The stigma that makes it hard to talk about depression at work
What it feels like to be in the middle of a depressive episode
Healing vs. recovery: why the difference matters
The importance of care teams, rest, and self-advocacy
Using poetry and writing as tools for mental health expression
Why speaking up from the darkness helps others feel less alone
How hope can come from leaning on others when you can’t hold it yourself

Timestamps

00:11 Introduction to the episode
01:10 How depression takes things from people’s lives
02:03 Stories from the Facebook community about what depression has stolen
03:10 Meet Gina, author and mental health advocate
04:47 Gina describes her depressive relapse despite TMS treatment
06:14 Her care team’s recommendation to take sick leave
07:44 Coping with darkness and intrusive thoughts
08:15 Why she chose to record while still struggling
09:15 The impact of stigma in the workplace
10:23 Intrusive and suicidal thoughts as the hardest symptom
11:53 Recognizing thoughts as symptoms, not truths
14:04 Losing her book launch to depression’s grip
15:30 How healing differs from recovery
17:49 Depression as a lifelong illness requiring ongoing management
18:56 Healing as a journey, not a destination
19:15 Finding purpose by giving back through advocacy
20:11 Update: ketamine treatment begins working
20:29 Reflections from the co-hosts on what depression really steals
22:30 Why being honest about depression in the moment matters
24:27 Closing reflections and resources

Living With Depression: How Therapy, Gratitude, and Hope Helped Me Recover Jan 10, 2023

Show notes

What does it feel like to find light after years of depression?

In this episode, Cara from Belfast, Northern Ireland shares her lived experience with depression, trauma, and recovery. From her teenage years of sadness and hopelessness, through moments of suicidal despair, to the life-changing decision to seek therapy, Cara describes what it’s really like to live in both the darkest lows and the euphoric highs.

She opens up about how therapy helped her process trauma, how journaling and gratitude became tools for survival, and why the small “flashes of light” — like savoring a coffee or witnessing kindness — gave her strength to hold on.

Cara’s story is a powerful reminder that recovery isn’t a straight line, but that hope, healing, and happiness are possible — even after the darkest nights.

Primary Topics Covered:

What depression really feels like beyond sadness
Cara’s teenage years of undiagnosed depression
The dangerous silence around mental illness in families
Therapy as both painful and healing
Naming and validating trauma in recovery
How “flashes of light” help people hold on through depression
The importance of journaling good days, not just bad ones
Peer support and the power of hearing “me too”
Daily goals as survival strategies in dark times
Why everyone deserves to live a happy life

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to the episode
01:11 Podcast recognized as #1 Depression Podcast
01:44 Introducing Cara’s story from Belfast
02:43 Experiencing happiness more intensely after darkness
04:00 The numbness and emptiness of depression
05:14 Understanding depression as an illness, not just sadness
05:40 Cara’s teenage years and undiagnosed depression
07:05 Early struggles, suicidal thoughts, and crisis moments
07:51 Returning to therapy and confronting trauma
09:37 How validating trauma changed Cara’s recovery
10:11 The night that pushed her to reach out for help
12:25 Taking the first step: finding a counselor online
13:07 The bumpy reality of recovery — ups and downs
14:53 “Flashes of light” — moments of happiness and hope
15:48 Journaling and photographing happy moments
16:50 Cara’s message of hope: hold on one day at a time
18:53 Reflections from the co-hosts on staying present
22:39 Closing thoughts: You deserve to live a happy life

What Helps With Depression? CBT, Journaling, and Coping Lessons Jan 03, 2023

Show notes

In this second part of our year-end reflection, Terri, Anita, and Bridget revisit powerful moments from 2022 that offered new ways of coping with depression. From reworking the 12 steps into a mental health framework, to journaling methods that transform negative thoughts into art, to rethinking resolutions with compassion instead of shame, these stories remind us that recovery is built step by step.

Featuring insights from Wally, Dr. Margaret Rutherford, and Gina Barry, this episode highlights practical tools, cognitive strategies, and affirmations of self-worth that help us move into the new year with greater resilience.

Primary Topics Covered:

Why 2022 was difficult and the importance of shared reflection
Wally’s “12 Steps for Mental Health” and how to adapt tools to fit individual needs
Practicing self-compassion and granting ourselves grace
How CBT helps challenge negative thoughts and “cancel” self-critical lies
Dr. Margaret Rutherford on making resolutions without shame or self-loathing
The role of self-care as an empowering daily practice
Gina Barry’s creative journaling method: “writing the ugly out” safely and privately
Using art and writing to transform dark thoughts into something meaningful
The hope and strength found in community and shared voices

Timestamps

00:00 Intro and reflections on moving from 2022 into 2023
01:43 Wishing listeners light, hope, and connection in the new year
02:38 Why the hosts revisit impactful episodes and guests
02:57 Anita revisits Wally’s “12 Steps Revised for Mental Health”
03:24 Wally explains his adapted 12 steps for managing depression
05:01 Why structured steps can make coping feel doable
05:46 The importance of personalizing mental health tools
06:05 Wally on self-compassion and granting ourselves grace
06:53 Mindfully dismissing negative self-talk in daily life
07:30 How CBT helps challenge and cancel depression’s lies
08:53 Bridget revisits Dr. Margaret Rutherford on rethinking resolutions
09:33 Why resolutions rooted in shame are harmful
10:02 Planting seeds of self-care and self-worth instead
11:11 Dr. Margaret on integrating past, present, and future in healing
12:22 Choosing self-love and hope instead of self-loathing
13:34 Terri revisits Gina Barry’s “journaling to get the ugly out”
14:22 Why writing down thoughts gives relief and perspective
15:23 Gina explains layering words for safety and privacy
16:13 Turning “ugly” thoughts into safe, textured expression
17:14 Using art and journaling as a way to affirm healing
18:26 How visual art can layer over journaling for hope
19:40 Invitation for listeners to share which episodes impacted them
20:15 Closing reflections and hopes for a gentler 2023

What Depression Really Feels Like: Lessons and Stories of Hope Dec 27, 2022

Show notes

As 2022 comes to a close, we reflect on some of the most powerful conversations from the past year—conversations that remind us what depression really feels like, and how shared stories can lead to understanding, connection, and hope.

In this special year-in-review episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Terri, Anita, and Bridget revisit listener-favorite guests including Tara, Patty, and John. From learning to forgive ourselves on hard days, to practicing CBT tools that challenge depression’s lies, to the life-changing moment of finally naming depression for what it is—these stories capture the courage, wisdom, and honesty of lived experience.

Whether you’re navigating depression yourself or supporting a loved one, this episode offers heartfelt insights and practical reminders that none of us are truly alone in this journey.

Primary Topics Covered:

Why 2022 was a particularly heavy year for many listeners and guests
Tara’s lesson on embracing the spectrum of “okay” days and offering ourselves grace
The power of simply “sitting with someone” during depression
Patty’s use of CBT to challenge negative automatic thoughts
Why recognizing early signs of relapse is crucial for long-term management
The role of sleep and other tools in bipolar disorder and depression recovery
John’s realization that he had been living with depression his whole life
How naming depression can open the door to healing and hope
The importance of recognizing patterns, practicing self-compassion, and building toolkits
Reflecting on the courage of all guests who shared their stories in 2022

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and reflections on 2022
01:10 Gratitude to listeners and the power of shared stories
02:09 Why 2022 felt especially challenging
02:32 Bridget introduces favorite moments of the year
03:15 Tara on forgiving herself and living with the spectrum of “okay”
04:21 Tara on removing shame and simply asking what someone with depression needs
05:13 The power of sitting with someone in depression
06:05 Anita revisits Patty’s episode on challenging dark thoughts with CBT
07:24 Patty shares how unchallenged thoughts spiral into depression
07:44 Using CBT to list supports and challenge depression’s lies
08:42 The importance of using mental health tools at the first signs of relapse
09:29 Patty explains how she manages early warning signs with her toolkit
10:27 The role of sleep in bipolar disorder and depression
10:48 John’s story: realizing he had depression his whole life
11:27 How shared stories helped John name and understand his condition
12:01 The disempowering cycle of unrecognized depression
12:43 John on hope and light after naming depression
13:23 Why diagnosis can bring relief and clarity
13:36 Understanding depression as a named enemy you can fight
14:10 Terri’s mosaic metaphor: beauty from brokenness
14:58 Inviting listeners to share their own reflections and voices
15:43 Closing message of gratitude and connection

Depression at Christmas: Coping with Loneliness and Grief During the Holidays Dec 24, 2022

Show notes

Christmas can be especially difficult for those living with depression, grief, or loneliness. While many people celebrate joy and togetherness, others quietly struggle to get through the day.

In this special holiday episode of Giving Voice to Depression, writer and pastor John Pavlovitz offers a compassionate message for anyone who feels out of place during the holidays. His words acknowledge the pain, losses, and internal battles that don’t disappear just because it’s Christmas.

This episode is a reminder that you are not alone. Whether you’re mourning a loved one, facing depression, or simply trying to survive the season, you’ll hear encouragement, solidarity, and hope that brighter days are still ahead.

Link to John's article, if you'd like a copy or to read vs. hear it is linked here: johnpavlovitz.com/2017/12/24/to-th…-this-christmas/

Primary Topics Covered:

Why Christmas can feel especially painful for those with depression or grief
Acknowledging loneliness, loss, and invisible struggles during the holidays
Reassurance that you are not the only one hurting on Christmas
Compassionate words of hope from John Pavlovitz
Encouragement to accept the season as it is and hold on for better days

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction from Terry: why this special episode matters
00:48 – John Pavlovitz’s essay begins: addressing those struggling this Christmas
02:00 – Recognizing the reality of grief, depression, and broken expectations
03:20 – Naming invisible struggles: internal battles we don’t talk about
04:20 – Words of comfort: you are not suffering alone
05:00 – Hopeful reminder: this season is not the end of your story
05:37 – Closing reflections and encouragement for the days ahead

What I Wish I Knew as a Teenager Struggling With Depression Dec 20, 2022

Show notes

What would you say to your younger self if you could go back in time?

In this heartfelt episode of Giving Voice to Depression, author and advocate Charlotte Underwood shares the lessons she wishes she had known as a teenager battling depression, trauma, and suicidal thoughts.

Charlotte reflects on how isolating and confusing it was to grow up without the language or understanding of mental illness, and how she thought she’d never survive into adulthood. Now in recovery, she offers messages of compassion, validation, and hope for anyone—especially teens—who feels trapped in darkness.

Her story is both a reflection and a roadmap: a reminder that depression lies, that strength is often hidden until we need it most, and that recovery—even if imperfect—is possible.

Primary Topics Covered:

Charlotte’s experience as a teen with undiagnosed depression and anxiety
The role of trauma, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts in her adolescence
The power of realizing you’re not alone in your struggle
How stigma and silence deepen suffering
What she wishes she had known about resilience and strength
The importance of support from family, friends, and community
Discovering that multiple forms of therapy and self-care exist
Learning that the future can hold joy and love despite depression
Her message to teens: you are not a failure, and your life is worth fighting for
Reflections on how surviving led to unexpected love, safety, and peace

Timestamps

00:11 Introduction to the episode
01:11 Why depression feels permanent when you’re in it
01:36 How Charlotte’s holiday message of hope first caught attention
02:49 Charlotte describes her teenage self and struggles
03:49 Why she didn’t believe she had a future
04:23 Surviving trauma, alcoholism, assault, and mental illness
04:52 What her life looks like now at 23—healing and stability
05:41 The joy of baking cookies and dancing with her husband
07:10 What she wishes her younger self had known about depression
07:56 Discovering her own hidden resilience
08:53 Lessons about support and self-harm conversations with her father
10:21 Keeping depression a secret and learning openness later in life
11:59 How she separated her mother’s illness from her identity
12:23 Finding forgiveness and compassion through her journey
13:10 Why the future is worth fighting for, even when you can’t see it
14:20 Her message to teenagers today: you are not a monster, you are not alone
16:09 Hosts reflect on Charlotte’s resilience and inner strength
17:47 The spark of hope and curiosity that keeps us going
19:00 A message of encouragement to listeners heading into the new year

Free Mental Health Tools for Stress Relief: Mindfulness, Breathing, and Self-Compassion Practices Dec 13, 2022

Show notes

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Dr. Barbara Moser shares three simple, research-backed practices you can use anytime to calm anxiety, reduce stress, and strengthen self-compassion. These tools require no cost, no appointments, and no side effects—just a willingness to pause and try. Guided by Dr. Moser, listeners will learn a three-minute STOP practice, a six-minute CALM practice, and an eight-minute Self-Compassion Break. Each technique can be used daily, even in small moments, to support mental health and build resilience.

Whether you’re struggling with depression, seeking ways to manage daily stress, or looking for accessible mental health strategies, these practices can help you find calm and grounding in tough moments.

Primary Topics Covered:

Accessible mental health tools that require no cost or appointments
Breathing exercises to activate the parasympathetic nervous system
The STOP practice for mindful pausing and better transitions
The Self-Compassion Break (mindfulness, common humanity, self-kindness)
How small daily practices build resilience and emotional strength

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro
01:20 Episode context and focus on free mental health tools
02:06 Dr. Barbara Moser introduction
02:42 Guided calming breath practice
09:21 Benefits of breathing for calming the nervous system
10:08 The six-minute STOP practice
14:08 Using STOP to navigate daily transitions
14:22 The eight-minute Self-Compassion Break
18:40 Recognizing shared human struggle
20:03 Practicing supportive self-talk
22:32 Closing reflections and resources

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