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

Latest Episodes:

Mindfulness and Self-Compassion for Depression Relief: Simple Daily Practices Dec 06, 2022

Show notes

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Terry and Dr. Anita Sanchez speak with Dr. Barbara Moser, a medical doctor and long-time suicide prevention advocate, about two powerful tools for managing depression: mindfulness and self-compassion. Dr. Moser explains how these practices can help regulate emotions, ease anxiety, and bring calm during difficult times. She also guides listeners through simple breathing and self-soothing exercises, showing how small, accessible practices can reduce stress and foster resilience. This episode highlights how treating ourselves with the same care we give to loved ones is both healing and necessary.

Link to more information, exercises and research: self-compassion.org/

Link to research on mindfulnessAmerican Mindfulness Research Association: https://goamra.org/amra-resources

Primary Topics Covered:

The role of mindfulness in emotional regulation
How self-compassion improves mental health and reduces depression
Simple breathing exercises to calm the nervous system
Using soothing touch as a self-care practice
Applying these tools during times of stress, grief, and anxiety

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro and welcome
01:11 Growing awareness of mental health in society
02:13 Introducing mindfulness and self-compassion as tools
03:27 What self-compassion really means
05:16 Research on self-compassion and mental health benefits
06:00 Defining mindfulness and its role in emotional regulation
07:03 How mindfulness helps in uncertain times
08:04 Applying mindfulness and self-compassion to real struggles
09:21 Naming emotions to create space and respond skillfully
09:45 Using mindful breathing to reset in stressful moments
10:22 Breathing as a self-compassionate practice
11:05 Guided breathing exercise with longer exhalations
12:16 How breathing calms the nervous system
13:16 Using soothing touch to support emotional well-being
14:45 The importance of feeling safe for mental health
15:17 Connection and shared humanity during difficult times
16:13 The importance of kindness and not judging others
17:04 Closing reflections and resources

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: Why Talking Openly Can Be the First Step to Healing Dec 02, 2022

Show notes

What happens when we finally speak the truth about depression? In this episode of SelfWork, Dr. Margaret sits down with Terry McGuire, former journalist and co-creator of the podcast Giving Voice to Depression. Terry shares her deeply personal journey of living with depression, the years she lost to silence and stigma, and why she chose to dedicate her career to amplifying the voices of others who struggle.

Listeners will learn how storytelling reduces shame, why recognizing early warning signs matters, and how talking openly can strengthen family bonds and save lives. Whether you’ve experienced depression yourself or love someone who has, this episode is a powerful reminder that you are not alone—and healing begins when we speak out.

Primary Topics Covered

Terry McGuire’s lifelong journey with depression and her turning point in her 50s
How stigma and silence keep people from getting help
Why “naming” depression is crucial for recovery
The mission behind the Giving Voice to Depression podcast
Early warning signs of depression—and how to recognize them
The healing power of storytelling and peer support
Breaking myths about talking openly about suicide

Timestamps

00:00 - Introduction and sponsor message
03:00 - Meet Terry McGuire: journalist, advocate, and mental health storyteller
07:00 - Early signs of depression and family silence
10:30 - Terry’s darkest period and the two years she lost to depression
15:00 - The turning point: recognizing depression and seeking treatment
19:00 - Why she launched Giving Voice to Depression
23:30 - Lessons learned from interviewing hundreds of people about depression
30:00 - Breaking the stigma: talking about suicide and mental health
36:00 - Stories of connection, family healing, and new understanding
42:00 - Where to find Giving Voice to Depression and how to support it
44:30 - Closing reflections from Dr. Margaret

Behavioral Activation for Depression: How Small Actions Break the Cycle Nov 29, 2022

Show notes

What if depression isn’t just sadness, but something more insidious—like a parasite that feeds on your energy, motivation, and joy?

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, psychologist and author Dr. Robert Duff (Hardcore Self-Help series) shares his unique way of describing depression and the practical tools he teaches clients to push back against it.

Duff explains how behavioral activation—starting with the “easy wins”—can help break depression’s vicious cycle of inactivity and guilt. He also introduces a simple mindfulness exercise that helps people coexist with intrusive thoughts without letting them take control.

With candid honesty and humor, Duff reminds us that depression is not weakness, laziness, or personal failure. It’s an illness that thrives on isolation and inertia—and one we can fight by taking small, consistent steps toward connection and activity.

If you’ve ever felt trapped in depression’s lies, this conversation offers validation, hope, and concrete strategies you can start using today.

Link to Dr. Robert Duff (Duff the Psych) website: www.duffthepsych.com

Primary Topics Covered:

Why Dr. Duff describes depression as a “parasite”
How depression tricks us into inactivity and guilt
The science behind behavioral activation for depression
Choosing “low effort, high reward” activities to get moving again
Why small wins matter more than perfection
A practical mindfulness exercise to manage intrusive thoughts
How thoughts can be treated as interruptions, not truths
Self-awareness around coping strategies that soothe but don’t help
When and how to seek outside support (therapy, medication, community)
Why self-compassion is essential in recovery

Timestamps

00:11 Introduction and welcome
01:10 The mission of the podcast: keeping it real and hopeful
02:42 Dr. Robert Duff describes depression as a parasite
03:37 How depression drains energy and reinforces itself
03:56 Behavioral activation explained through cost-benefit analysis
04:43 Choosing activities based on effort vs. reward
05:39 Starting with small wins to build momentum
06:26 The brain chemistry of depression and motivation
07:18 Why consistency matters in breaking the cycle
07:40 Duff’s mindfulness exercise to handle intrusive thoughts
08:18 Noticing, acknowledging, and releasing negative thoughts
09:45 Practicing attention-shifting daily (e.g., while brewing coffee)
10:29 The difference between soothing and actually helping behaviors
11:00 Options for support: therapy, medication, self-help, community
11:38 Final reflections on compassion, trial-and-error, and persistence
12:52 Co-host reflections on using Duff’s methods personally
14:02 Why making a “menu” of easy activities helps in low-energy states
14:35 Closing thoughts and mention of Duff’s Hardcore Self-Help series
15:11 Next week’s preview: more practical techniques for everyday use
15:27 Outro and listener encouragement

Living With Bipolar Disorder: Finding Light in the Darkness of Depression Nov 22, 2022

Show notes

What does it mean to call depression a “terrible gift”?

In this powerful episode of Giving Voice to Depression, poet and artist Kristen Roedl shares her lived experience with bipolar II disorder and recurring severe depression. She speaks candidly about her hospitalizations, suicidal thoughts, and the quiet strength it takes to keep going day after day.

Through poetry, journaling, and creativity, Kristen transforms pain into connection, helping others feel less alone in their struggles. She also reflects on the role of medication, therapy, and the unwavering support of her husband in her healing journey.

Her story reminds us that while depression steals energy, hope, and joy, it can also cultivate empathy, resilience, and art. Kristen’s words are a beacon for anyone who needs to hear: Carry on. You are worthy. Carry on.

To learn more about Kristin and her poetry: KristinRoedell.wikidot.com

Primary Topics Covered:

Why Kristen calls depression a “terrible gift”
Living with bipolar II disorder and recurrent depression
The experience of psychiatric hospitalization and finding community inside
Learning that depression is time-limited and survivable
Using poetry and journaling as tools for healing
Talking back to depression and anxiety with affirmations
The role of medication, therapy, and partner support
Accepting depression without shame or self-judgment
Lessons about rest, self-compassion, and resilience
Reading of Kristen’s poem “I Swallowed Hope That Winter”

Timestamps

00:11 Introduction and welcome
01:10 Redefining “gift” during the holiday season
02:10 Why sharing lived experience is a true gift
02:57 Introducing Kristen, poet and mental health advocate
04:13 Kristen explains her process of preparing for this interview
05:06 Lessons about self-worth beyond productivity
06:06 Surviving depression and offering a hand to others
06:50 Managing overwhelm and chronic panic attacks
07:24 Giving room and grace to depression when it comes
07:43 Depression’s voice and how Kristen channels it through poetry
09:05 Recognizing that depression lies and we are not alone
09:59 Living with bipolar II disorder
10:25 Understanding hypomania vs. depression
11:14 Kristen’s experiences with hospitalization for suicidal thoughts
13:24 Using poetry to move through darkness and connect with others
14:21 Why she calls depression a “terrible gift”
15:22 Talking back to depression with affirmations of worth
16:26 Journaling, painting, and writing as daily coping tools
17:08 Kristen reads her poem “I Swallowed Hope That Winter”
18:30 Reflections on the power of her words
19:45 Takeaways: resting, acceptance, and self-compassion
21:37 Closing thanks and resources

Managing Depression During the Holidays: Tips to Protect Your Mental Health Nov 15, 2022

Show notes

Navigating the holiday season while living with depression can be overwhelming. In this episode, clinical psychologist Anita and host Terry discuss why the holidays can trigger emotional distress and offer actionable strategies for self-care, boundary-setting, and reclaiming joy. Whether you're facing loneliness, family friction, or fatigue, this conversation provides practical advice to help protect your mental health and make the season more manageable.

Primary Topics Covered:

Why the holidays are especially hard for those with depression
The emotional and energy demands of the season
Setting boundaries with family and managing expectations
Creative coping tools like the “holiday bingo card”
How to handle grief and loss during festive times
The importance of buffer days and self-care rituals

Timestamps:

00:00 - Intro and context for the episode
01:11 - Why the holidays can be especially difficult
02:28 - Energy demands and emotional expectations
03:51 - Family stress and social pressures
05:32 - Key advice for simplifying the holidays
07:39 - Navigating holidays alone and redefining traditions
10:00 - Grieving during the holidays
11:57 - The “turtle” grief metaphor
12:13 - Strategies for managing difficult family gatherings
13:51 - Creating and using the holiday bingo card
14:38 - Shifting focus with humor and internal rewards
14:57 - Setting firm boundaries and travel planning
15:58 - Scheduling a post-holiday buffer day
16:32 - Respecting your energy and recovery time
17:03 - Final thoughts and listener call-to-action
17:46 - Invitation to contribute tips for future episodes

Depression in Black and Brown Communities: Breaking Stigma and Seeking Help Nov 08, 2022

Show notes

In too many Black and Brown communities, depression and other mental health struggles are hidden behind stigma, silence, and cultural expectations of strength. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, advocate Didi Hairston, known online as Diva with Depression, shares her deeply personal journey of living with chronic, treatment-resistant depression while raising children, working, and building a platform for advocacy.

Didi speaks openly about what it means to function in “the dark place” every day, the role of trauma and postpartum struggles in her mental health story, and the devastating loneliness that often comes with untreated depression. She also highlights how cultural stigma makes it harder for Black and Brown individuals to seek therapy or medication, and why honest conversations and supportive networks are essential for healing.

Her unfiltered account offers validation for those suffering in silence and a call to action for communities to break chains of stigma and embrace empathy and mental health care.

Didi's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_bkjYo7HjBTgcYS9NuW9QFB

Didi's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/divawdepression/

Didi's Twitter: https://twitter.com/divawdepIG:

Didi's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divawdep/

Primary Topics Covered:

The reality of living with chronic, treatment-resistant depression
Cultural stigma around mental health in Black and Brown communities
Functioning daily in “the dark place” while raising children and working
The impact of childhood trauma and postpartum depression
Naming depression “the monster” and why it helps describe the experience
Coping strategies: therapy, medication, advocacy, and peer support
Loneliness, loss, and why connection is critical to survival
A call to communities: breaking stigma and encouraging healing

Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction to the episode and themes
01:11 – Depression as part of identity and owning the diagnosis
01:29 – Guest introduction: Didi Hairston, “Diva with Depression”
02:11 – Functioning daily in a dark place
02:47 – The roots of depression in childhood trauma
03:48 – Postpartum depression and worsening symptoms
05:03 – Surviving while parenting with depression
06:18 – Naming depression “the monster”
08:40 – Coping with therapy, medication, and advocacy work
09:55 – Cultural stigma in Black and Brown communities
11:29 – Loneliness, loss, and the “empty nest” crash
13:54 – The pain of isolation and longing for connection
16:12 – Supportive texts and small acts of care
16:48 – The responsibility of loved ones to notice and respond
17:40 – Living in “hell” but still functioning
19:18 – Acceptance and resilience in chronic depression
21:40 – Final reflections and call to break stigma

How to Deal With Depression: Breaking Absolutist Thinking and Suicidal Thoughts Nov 01, 2022

Show notes

Can the words we use reveal the depth of our depression and even our risk of suicide? Dr. Mohammed Al-Mosaiwi, psychologist and researcher, joins us to explore how absolutist thinking—using words like always, never, completely—is linked to depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation.

In this episode, Dr. Al-Mosaiwi explains how the process of our thinking is just as important as the content, why absolutist language is a marker of vulnerability, and how disputing rigid thought patterns can open the door to healing.

Whether you’re living with depression, supporting someone who is, or simply curious about how language reflects mental health, this conversation provides both insight and practical tools for challenging destructive patterns of thought.

Primary Topics Covered:

What “absolutist thinking” is and why it matters for depression and anxiety
How words like always and never can signal suicidal ideation
The difference between content (negative thoughts) and process (rigid thinking)
Why absolutist thinking may be a vulnerability for depression
Practical strategies for identifying and disputing absolutist thoughts
The role of rumination and self-focus in deepening depression
How language analysis is being used in research and clinical care
The promise and risks of using technology to detect mental health struggles

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Mohammed Al-Mosaiwi and his research focus
01:14 Why depression, anxiety, and suicide are interconnected
01:42 Understanding absolutist thinking and its role in mental health
02:56 How words like “always” and “never” become markers of depression
05:08 Is absolutist thinking a cause of depression or a symptom?
06:49 Research findings: absolutist language in recovered patients
07:49 How to identify absolutist thinking in yourself and others
08:51 Practical disputing: breaking down rigid thought patterns
09:45 Why change takes repetition and time
10:14 Applications for crisis hotlines and early detection
11:13 Self-focus, pronouns, and rumination in depression
13:37 Why absolutist thoughts feel all-consuming
15:20 Using disputing techniques as homework and prevention
16:40 Practicing flexible thinking patterns over time
17:35 Why loved ones can help when clarity is lost in depression
19:14 Different absolutist thoughts tied to different mental health struggles
20:01 Shifting focus from negative content to thinking style
21:48 Using text analysis and technology in clinical care
24:09 Where research data comes from (forums, writings, diaries)
25:58 Closing reflections on why this research matters

Cancer and Depression: How Therapy and Support Help Patients Heal Oct 25, 2022

Show notes

In this powerful episode, we hear from J.J. Singleton, who has lived with terminal colorectal cancer for years while also battling depression, PTSD, and anxiety. J.J. shares how therapy, peer support, and even small moments of distraction have helped him survive mentally as he undergoes constant rounds of chemotherapy. He opens up about suicidal thoughts, the stigma around men discussing mental health, and the importance of advocating for both physical and emotional healing. This episode is a reminder that cancer doesn’t just affect the body—it deeply impacts the mind, and no one should have to carry that burden alone.

Link to Man Up to Cancer: https://www.manuptocancer.com/

Primary Topics Covered:

J.J. Singleton’s cancer diagnosis and treatment journey
How cancer triggered depression, anxiety, and PTSD
The stigma around men discussing mental health
The role of therapy in processing suicidal thoughts
Coping strategies: peer support, therapy, and distraction
Advocating for awareness of the mental toll of cancer

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro and welcome
02:27 J.J. shares his cancer diagnosis and treatment history
03:20 Why mental health is central to his journey
04:25 How cancer triggered anxiety, PTSD, and depression
05:39 Suicidal thoughts and feelings of being a burden
06:40 Shifting mindset: realizing the need for help
07:41 The life-changing impact of therapy
09:41 Opening up about suicidal thoughts in therapy
10:55 Why mental health struggles are often invisible
11:15 Coping tools: therapy, peer support, and distraction
12:30 Choosing to advocate for cancer and mental health awareness
13:43 How mental health education could help new cancer patients
13:52 J.J.’s hope for listeners who feel alone in their struggles
15:02 Reflections on the mind-body connection of illness and mental health
17:13 Closing thoughts and resources

Self-Care for Depression: Evidence-Based Tips for the Days You Can’t Get Out of Bed Oct 18, 2022

Show notes

What do you do when even brushing your teeth or standing up feels impossible?

This deeply validating and practical episode features Emily Derecktor, founder of Cereal for Dinner, a free online resource built to help people function during depression’s darkest days. With evidence-based tools and insights from lived experience, Emily shares realistic self-care tips that actually work when energy and motivation are nowhere to be found.

From waking up in bed to feeding yourself and dealing with dishes, Emily breaks down survival into the smallest, kindest steps. This episode is for anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed by daily tasks—and wants to learn how to meet themselves with grace, not guilt.

Cereal for Dinner's Website: https://www.cerealfordinner.org/

Primary Topics Covered:

Why well-meaning advice like “go for a run” can be invalidating
Acknowledging the physical and emotional paralysis of depression
Evidence-based micro-steps to begin your day, starting in bed
Realistic hygiene hacks for when showering feels impossible
Gentle, practical nutrition strategies—even if it’s cereal for dinner
How to manage cleaning tasks in small, achievable ways
Tips for reducing shame around messy living spaces
Planning ahead for depressive episodes with a “go bag”
The behavioral activation model: motivation follows action
Encouragement to ask for help and invest in mental health tools

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro and mission of the podcast
01:11 Meeting people with depression where they are
02:20 Why “just try harder” doesn’t help
03:36 Introducing “Cereal for Dinner” and its founder Emily
04:26 There’s no playbook for day-to-day depression management
05:25 Waking up: hydration, breathwork, and micro-movements
06:57 The weight of depression as a physical barrier
08:26 Hygiene hacks: dry shampoo, baby wipes, bedside kits
10:13 Shampoo caps and other rinse-free options
11:02 Building a bedside hygiene basket with wisps and wipes
12:11 Feeding yourself: meal shortcuts and prep for low-energy days
13:43 Easy meals: rotisserie chicken, frozen veggies, canned beans
14:30 It’s okay to use paper plates and disposable pans
15:04 Clean space vs. messy space: emotional impact
16:26 Cleaning in phases: trash today, clothes tomorrow
17:23 Pairing cleaning with existing habits
17:40 Asking for help: cleaning, companionship, or both
18:29 When to invest in your environment or outsource help
19:50 Behavioral activation: action before motivation
21:33 Harnessing hope through apps, community, and lived experience
22:46 Final therapist takeaways: smallest steps matter most
24:10 Website and community reminders

Depression in College: Emily’s Story of Struggle and Survival Oct 11, 2022

Show notes

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Emily Director shares her deeply personal journey through depression, beginning with her struggles during college. From the overwhelming loneliness she felt at Brown University to building peer-support initiatives at Penn, Emily’s story reflects both the pain and resilience of living with depression. She opens up about her diagnosis, hospitalization, and the importance of peer support, therapy, and reframing how we view emotions. Her honesty sheds light on what it’s really like to live with severe depression and how small steps, community, and understanding can make a difference.

Link to Cereal for Dinner's website: https://www.cerealfordinner.org/

Primary Topics Covered:

Emily’s early struggles with depression in college
The role of environment in mental health
Leaving medical school and identity loss
Hospitalization, ECT treatments, and living with chronic depression
Learning to accept and process “negative” emotions
The fear of recovery and losing support
The importance of peer support and community

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction by hosts Terry and Dr. Anita Sanchez
01:23 – Introduction of guest Emily Director
03:05 – Emily’s 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 finding mental health advocacy at Penn
06:46 – Creating a peer counseling program and mental health screening tool
07:26 – Depression as a spectrum, varying by person and episode
08:53 – Struggles in medical school and worsening depression
10:01 – Leaving medical school, identity crisis, and hospitalization
11:32 – Role of therapy and recognizing PTSD
12:11 – Reframing emotions: learning to accept sadness and negative feelings
13:35 – Naming emotions and reducing panic about sadness
15:20 – Depression as an ongoing, waxing-and-waning condition
16:18 – Experiencing joy again after years of numbness
17:02 – Fears about losing support during recovery
18:32 – The daily struggle of completing basic tasks during depression
19:17 – Co-host reflections on debilitating depression
20:30 – Importance of practical tips for daily functioning (next week’s episode preview)
21:38 – Power of peer support and Facebook community invitation
22:27 – Call for listener engagement and feedback
22:47 – Closing thoughts and preview of Emily’s website/resource sharing

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