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

Latest Episodes:

Depression Treatment Options: Psychiatry, Antidepressants, and Finding the Right Support May 11, 2021

Show notes

Deciding whether to try medication for depression or anxiety can feel overwhelming. How do you know if it’s time to see a psychiatrist? What should you expect from a first visit? And what role do antidepressants really play in treatment?

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, psychiatrist Dr. Jessi Gold joins the conversation to break down the realities of medication as a treatment option. From addressing stigma to explaining side effects and the importance of therapy, Dr. Gold provides clarity and reassurance for anyone considering antidepressants—or supporting a loved one who is.

If you’ve ever wondered about the pros and cons of medication, what “treatment-resistant depression” really means, or how to find the right support system, this episode offers insight, honesty, and hope.

Primary Topics Covered:

The stigma and misconceptions surrounding antidepressants
When it may be time to see a psychiatrist
What to expect during your first psychiatric visit
Why therapy plus medication is often the most effective treatment
Side effects of antidepressants and how to manage them
The timeline for antidepressants to start working
Misunderstandings about “treatment-resistant depression”
Why meds aren’t a magic fix but can be an important tool in recovery

Timestamps:

00:05 - Introduction to the episode
01:02 - Meme that captures the antidepressant debate
01:31 - Why antidepressants are controversial
01:52 - Considering medication for depression or anxiety
02:28 - Guest introduction: Dr. Jessi Gold
03:15 - When people typically seek psychiatric help
03:38 - Why therapy plus medication often works best
04:11 - How to know when it’s time to consider meds
05:14 - What happens during a first psychiatric visit
06:14 - The stigma around psychiatry and seeking help
07:17 - How long antidepressants take to start working
08:05 - Common side effects and what to expect
08:56 - Do antidepressants actually work?
09:53 - Addressing fears about meds changing personality
11:02 - Comparing untreated depression vs. being on meds
11:22 - Concerns about long-term use of antidepressants
12:34 - What “treatment-resistant depression” really means
14:14 - Why medication isn’t a magic fix
14:59 - The role of therapy alongside antidepressants
16:24 - The goal of medication: balance, not constant happiness
17:20 - Bridget shares her medication experience
17:47 - Terry reflects on her own journey with meds
18:15 - Why treatment can feel like “throwing darts in the dark”
18:37 - Closing thanks to Dr. Gold
18:53 - Final reflections and invitation to connect

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/

Generational Trauma and Mental Health: Healing Across Cultures and Communities May 04, 2021

Show notes

Trauma doesn’t end with the people who experience it. It can echo across generations, shaping families, communities, and even entire cultures.

In this powerful conversation, Mark Powless, a member of the Oneida Nation, shares his story of growing up on a reservation and learning how historical trauma — from boarding schools to cultural erasure — continues to affect Native communities today.

We explore how generational trauma impacts mental health, the ways it can manifest as depression, anger, and addiction, and most importantly, how healing practices like sweat lodges, cultural traditions, and open conversations can begin to break the cycle.

This is a deeply human story of pain, resilience, and hope — and a reminder that healing is possible when we acknowledge the past and care for the present.

Resources Mark suggests:

Oneida Nation website: https://oneida-nsn.gov/

Sky Woman Lives in Me by Roberta Capasso: https://www.amazon.com/Sky-Woman-Lives-Roberta-Capasso/dp/1483443469

Boarding School Seasons: American Indian Families, 1900-1940 by Brenda Child: https://www.amazon.com/Boarding-School-Seasons-American-1900-1940-dp-0803214804/dp/0803214804/ref=mt_other?_encoding=UTF8&me=&qid=

Healing the Sound Wound by Eduardo Duran: https://www.amazon.com/Healing-Soul-Wound-Trauma-Informed-Multicultural/dp/0807761397/

Primary Topics Covered:

What intergenerational trauma is and how it’s passed down
The impact of historical traumas such as boarding schools
How normalized pain and abuse affect Native communities today
The connection between generational trauma and depression
Personal reflections on family, grief, and healing
The role of cultural identity in resilience and recovery
Indigenous healing practices and the importance of storytelling
Hope for future generations through awareness and compassion

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to the episode and context of trauma
01:01 – How trauma changes our sense of safety and identity
01:48 – Understanding intergenerational trauma in Native communities
03:08 – Mark Powless shares his experiences growing up on the reservation
03:59 – Recognizing historical events behind today’s struggles
05:06 – The trauma of boarding schools and cultural erasure
06:11 – Disconnection from family and community
06:44 – Silence, shame, and unspoken pain among elders
07:39 – Coping mechanisms: substance abuse and anger
08:35 – The cultural and emotional significance of hair in Native traditions
09:57 – Triggering events and reactivated trauma
11:21 – Carrying grief and inherited pain across generations
13:49 – Breaking cycles: Indigenous healing practices
14:17 – Teaching mental wellness to the next generation
14:57 – Healing as a lifelong process of compassion and patience
15:54 – Closing reflections on trauma, healing, and storytelling

Generational Trauma and Depression: How Historical Pain Affects Mental Health Today May 04, 2021

Show notes

Trauma doesn’t always end with the person who experiences it. It can be passed down through families, shaping identities, relationships, and even entire communities.

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Mark Powless, a member of the Oneida Nation, shares his story of growing up in a Native community still impacted by the historical trauma of boarding schools and cultural erasure.

We explore how generational trauma contributes to depression and other mental health challenges, why silence and stigma persist, and how Indigenous healing practices are helping to restore identity, connection, and resilience.

This is a conversation about loss, survival, and the powerful role of culture in creating pathways to healing.

Resources Mark suggests:

Oneida Nation website: https://oneida-nsn.gov/

Sky Woman Lives in Me by Roberta Capasso: https://www.amazon.com/Sky-Woman-Lives-Roberta-Capasso/dp/1483443469

Boarding School Seasons: American Indian Families, 1900-1940 by Brenda Child: https://www.amazon.com/Boarding-School-Seasons-American-1900-1940-dp-0803214804/dp/0803214804/

Healing the Sound Wound by Eduardo Duran: https://www.amazon.com/Healing-Soul-Wound-Trauma-Informed-Multicultural/dp/0807761397/

Primary Topics Covered:

What generational trauma is and how it’s passed down
The connection between historical trauma and depression
Boarding schools, cultural erasure, and their lingering effects
Why silence, shame, and stigma prevent open conversations
Substance use and anger as coping mechanisms for trauma
How cultural identity shapes resilience and recovery
The role of Indigenous healing practices like sweat lodges
Building awareness and hope for future generations

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction and overview of generational trauma
01:01 – Trauma’s impact on identity, safety, and belonging
01:48 – Intergenerational trauma in Native communities explained
03:08 – Mark Powless shares his personal story
03:59 – Historical events shaping present-day struggles
05:06 – The trauma of boarding schools and cultural erasure
06:11 – Family disconnection and inherited silence
07:39 – Coping through anger, grief, and substance use
08:35 – The meaning of cultural traditions in healing
09:57 – Triggers and reactivation of old wounds
11:21 – Carrying grief across generations
13:49 – Indigenous practices for breaking cycles of trauma
14:17 – Teaching younger generations about mental health
14:57 – Healing as a lifelong journey
15:54 – Closing reflections on trauma and resilience

How to Talk to Kids About Mental Health: Starting Conversations Early Apr 27, 2021

Show notes

Starting mental health conversations with children can feel intimidating—but avoiding them can leave kids unprepared and alone with their struggles. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, guest TJ shares why he chose to talk openly with his son about depression, anxiety, and PTSD, and how those conversations helped build understanding, trust, and resilience.

You’ll hear TJ’s powerful story of survival, his lessons on overcoming stigma, and his belief that the earlier we start teaching kids it’s okay to talk about feelings, the stronger and healthier future generations will be.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or loved one, this episode will give you tools and hope for creating safe spaces for kids to discuss emotions and mental health without shame.

Primary Topics Covered:

Why it’s important to start mental health conversations with children early.
How TJ’s lived experience with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD shaped his parenting.
The impact of parental mental health on children’s wellbeing.
Overcoming stigma by making emotions and mental health safe to talk about.
Strategies for explaining depression and anxiety to kids without overwhelming them.
Why listening without judgment is key when kids open up.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to the episode
01:40 – Why families should normalize conversations about mental health
03:25 – TJ’s personal journey with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD
05:15 – Struggles with medication, treatment, and relapse
06:36 – Suicide attempts and the turning point for seeking help
07:19 – How TJ’s son noticed changes in his father’s mental health
08:06 – Why TJ decided to talk openly with his child about depression
09:45 – Teaching kids that mental health struggles are not their fault
10:41 – Using natural moments to start conversations about emotions
11:30 – Explaining depression and anxiety to children in an age-appropriate way
13:09 – Why parents need to model openness and honesty
14:59 – Encouraging kids to share feelings without shame
15:33 – Fighting stigma by teaching children early
16:34 – Prioritizing kids’ mental health as much as other safety lessons
18:40 – Final reflections and takeaways

Children’s Mental Health Matters: How to Explain Depression and Anxiety to Kids Apr 27, 2021

Show notes

How do you explain depression and anxiety to children in ways they can understand? In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, guest TJ shares his powerful story of living with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD—and why he made the decision to talk openly with his young son about mental health.

By breaking silence and stigma, TJ gave his child the tools to recognize emotions, ask questions, and understand that mental health struggles are not anyone’s fault. His experience shows that when we start mental health conversations early, we give children a foundation of compassion, resilience, and hope.

This episode is for parents, teachers, and caregivers who want to know how to talk to children about mental health in a safe, supportive, and age-appropriate way.

Primary Topics Covered:

Why children’s mental health should be prioritized as much as physical health.
TJ’s personal journey with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
The role of family openness in reducing stigma.
How parental mental health affects children.
Practical tips for explaining depression and anxiety to children.
The importance of listening without judgment when kids share their feelings.
Why early mental health conversations build resilience for the future.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction
01:40 – Why children need open conversations about mental health
03:25 – TJ’s experience with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD
05:15 – Struggles with medication, treatment, and relapse
06:36 – Suicide attempts and reaching a turning point
07:19 – How TJ’s son noticed his struggles
08:06 – Choosing to talk openly with his child about depression
09:45 – Teaching kids that mental health struggles are not their fault
10:41 – Using natural moments to start conversations
11:30 – Explaining depression and anxiety in kid-friendly ways
13:09 – Parents modeling openness and honesty
14:59 – Helping kids feel safe sharing their emotions
15:33 – Fighting stigma early through family conversations
16:34 – Prioritizing children’s mental health alongside other life skills
18:40 – Closing reflections and encouragement

Depression Recovery Journey: Finding the Right Therapy After Childhood Trauma Apr 20, 2021

Show notes

What happens when traditional therapies don’t work? For many people living with depression, the path to healing isn’t straightforward. In this candid conversation, Renee shares her decades-long depression recovery journey shaped by childhood trauma, failed therapies, and the eventual discovery of support systems that finally helped her heal.

From surviving sexual abuse and risky behaviors to discovering the power of group therapy and art therapy, Renee’s story is a testament to persistence — and a reminder that recovery from depression is possible when you find what works for you.

If you’ve ever felt stuck, hopeless, or convinced that nothing will help, this episode offers hope, validation, and encouragement to keep searching.

Primary Topics Covered:

How adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) influence lifelong mental health
Renee’s early experiences with depression and self-harm
Why talk therapy and medication didn’t work for her at first
The role of a judge in redirecting her toward help
The impact of disclosing childhood sexual abuse
Why depression was a symptom of unresolved trauma
Discovering group therapy as a safe and validating space
Art therapy as a tool for expression and healing
Learning coping skills and identifying triggers
Why no single therapy works for everyone
Encouragement to persist in finding the right support

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction
01:02 – Depression recovery is possible, even if it feels hopeless
01:20 – Renee’s early trauma and family history of suicide
03:23 – Childhood self-harm and first hospitalization
03:57 – Failed attempts with talk therapy and medication
04:38 – Risky behaviors and intervention from a judge
05:37 – Disclosure of childhood sexual abuse during therapy
06:37 – The long-lasting impact of trauma on mental health
07:28 – Realizing depression was a symptom of unresolved trauma
08:29 – Taking the scary first step into a survivor support group
09:27 – Discovering art therapy as a healing practice
10:32 – Learning coping skills and recognizing triggers
11:57 – The value of peer support in group therapy
13:12 – Why healing isn’t one-size-fits-all
14:11 – Encouragement: your depression is not your fault
15:44 – Why speaking up about your struggles matters
16:34 – Survivor’s manifesto and closing reflections

Depression and Childhood Trauma: Signs, Symptoms, and Finding Therapy That Works Apr 20, 2021

Show notes

Depression and childhood trauma are deeply connected, but the path to healing is rarely straightforward. Many survivors spend years trying different therapies, medications, and support systems before finding what actually helps.

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Renee shares her personal depression recovery journey, shaped by early childhood trauma, failed treatments, and the eventual discovery of group and art therapy. Her story is both raw and hopeful — showing that while healing looks different for everyone, persistence in finding therapy that works can make all the difference.

Listeners will learn how trauma influences depression, what symptoms often get overlooked, and why no single therapy works for every survivor. If you’ve ever felt stuck or hopeless, this conversation offers validation, encouragement, and a reminder that recovery is possible.

Primary Topics Covered:

The connection between childhood trauma and depression
Early warning signs and symptoms of depression in children
Renee’s personal history of abuse, self-harm, and early hospitalizations
Why traditional talk therapy and medication didn’t work for her initially
The impact of disclosing childhood sexual abuse during therapy
Recognizing depression as a symptom of unresolved trauma
How group therapy provided safety, validation, and connection
The role of art therapy in expression and healing
Learning coping skills and managing emotional triggers
Why every recovery journey is unique — and requires persistence
Encouragement for survivors: finding therapy that truly works

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction
01:02 – The link between depression and childhood trauma
01:20 – Renee’s early trauma and family history of suicide
03:23 – Self-harm and first hospitalization as a child
03:57 – Why talk therapy and medication failed at first
04:38 – Risky behaviors and intervention from a judge
05:37 – Disclosing sexual abuse in therapy sessions
06:37 – How unresolved trauma shaped lifelong depression
07:28 – Realizing depression was a symptom, not the root cause
08:29 – First steps into a survivor support group
09:27 – Discovering art therapy as a tool for healing
10:32 – Coping skills and identifying emotional triggers
11:57 – The value of peer support in recovery
13:12 – Why therapy must be personalized to work
14:11 – Encouragement: your depression is not your fault
15:44 – Speaking up and advocating for your needs
16:34 – Closing reflections and survivor’s manifesto

Depression and Music: How Songwriting Helps Express Pain and Find Hope Apr 13, 2021

Show notes

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, singer-songwriter Demetra Prochaska shares how her journey with depression and suicidal thoughts found expression through music. From her teenage years navigating divorce, foster care, and a residential treatment program to writing her haunting song “I’m Not Okay” during the pandemic, Demetra shows how songwriting became both an outlet for pain and a pathway toward hope.

She opens up about the importance of trusted adults, the role of coping skills, and why asking for help can be an act of survival. Her story is both heartbreaking and inspiring — and her music reminds us that while depression tells us lies, hope and healing remain possible.

Link to Demetra's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCijatOUHQY9g-hjS4_mBzqQ

Primary Topics Covered:

The connection between depression and music as emotional expression
Demetra’s experience with depression starting in her teens
The importance of trusted adults and guidance counselors
Residential treatment and its role in her recovery
Writing “I’m Not Okay” during the pandemic as a cry for help
Differentiating between not wanting to live like this vs. not wanting to live
Coping skills: reaching out, checking in with herself, and practicing self-care
The healing and reflective power of songwriting

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to the episode and co-hosts
02:01 - How music lyrics reflect depression
02:49 - Introducing Demetra and her mental health journey
03:20 - Early experiences with depression and lack of open conversation
03:56 - Turning to trusted adults and feeling heard
05:34 - Entering residential treatment and shifting perspectives
07:00 - Looking back at life before treatment
08:18 - Depression during the pandemic and unbearable lows
09:26 - Writing the song “I’m Not Okay” as a cry for help
10:34 - Exploring suicidal ideation and the desire for change
11:45 - Holding onto hope while in pain
13:37 - Reaching out for help instead of masking
14:33 - Coping strategies and self-reflection
15:45 - Seeking reassurance and reminders of worth
17:01 - Escalating depression and need for professional support
18:12 - Lessons on asking for help and reflecting on self-worth
20:35 - Full performance of “I’m Not Okay”

How Music Helps with Depression: Turning Pain, Anxiety, and Struggles into Songs Apr 13, 2021

Show notes

In this powerful episode of Giving Voice to Depression, musician Demetra Prochaska shares her deeply personal story of living with depression and how songwriting became both a survival tool and a source of hope.

From her teenage years marked by family struggles, foster care, and residential treatment, to writing her song “I’m Not Okay” during the isolation of the pandemic, Demetra opens up about how music gave voice to emotions she couldn’t express otherwise.

Her story highlights the difference between not wanting to live and not wanting to live like this, the importance of reaching out for help, and how creative expression can offer both reflection and healing.

Whether you’re living with depression, supporting someone who is, or searching for healthy coping strategies, this conversation offers honesty, vulnerability, and a reminder that you are not alone.

Link to Demetra's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCijatOUHQY9g-hjS4_mBzqQ

Primary Topics Covered:

How music and songwriting can help express depression and anxiety
Demetra’s early experiences with depression as a teenager
The importance of trusted adults, teachers, and counselors
Residential treatment as a turning point in her recovery journey
The story behind “I’m Not Okay” and writing through the pandemic
Understanding suicidal ideation and the desire for change
Practical coping skills: self-reflection, reaching out, and self-care
The role of creative outlets in healing and recovery

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction and context for the episode
02:01 - Music as a mirror for depression and emotions
02:49 - Demetra’s story begins: early signs of depression
03:20 - Struggles in teen years and lack of open conversation about mental health
03:56 - Finding guidance and support from trusted adults
05:34 - Entering residential treatment and shifting her outlook
07:00 - Reflecting on life before receiving help
08:18 - Depression and struggles during the pandemic
09:26 - Writing “I’m Not Okay” as a cry for help
10:34 - Suicidal thoughts: wanting change vs. not wanting life to end
11:45 - Holding onto hope while facing deep depression
13:37 - The importance of reaching out instead of masking pain
14:33 - Coping strategies and checking in with herself
15:45 - Seeking reassurance and reminders of self-worth
17:01 - Recognizing when professional help is needed
18:12 - Lessons on self-worth, asking for help, and reflection
20:35 - Full performance of “I’m Not Okay”

Recognizing Mental Health Warning Signs: How to Act Before a Crisis Happens Apr 06, 2021

Show notes

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we focus on recognizing the early warning signs of a mental health crisis — and what you can do to prevent it.

Guest Corinne shares her deeply personal story of struggling with depression during pregnancy and how reaching out for help saved her life. She introduces a simple “mental health scale” that helps her identify when things are worsening before they reach crisis levels.

We also explore practical coping strategies for depression and anxiety, including therapy, exercise, sleep, and meditation, as well as the life-saving role of connection and support.

This episode is a reminder that awareness and action can make the difference between crisis and recovery. By learning how to spot the signs and respond early, we can protect ourselves — and those we love.

Link to Corinne's article: https://qz.com/1381952/suicide-hotlines-really-do-save-lives-i-know-because-one-saved-mine/

Primary Topics Covered:

The importance of early recognition of depression and anxiety symptoms
Corinne’s story of calling a suicide prevention hotline
Using the mental health scale to track wellness and risk levels
Key coping strategies to prevent escalation into crisis
Why connection, honesty, and empathy are essential for healing
The role of prevention-focused mental health support

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction and framing the conversation
01:14 - Corinne’s struggle with depression during pregnancy
02:31 - Why sharing lived experiences is life-saving
04:25 - The mental health “scale” as a self-monitoring tool
05:31 - Coping strategies: therapy, exercise, sleep, meditation
06:20 - Building trust and connection as protective factors
07:34 - How to tell when depression turns toward crisis
09:19 - Suicide prevention hotlines as critical lifelines
10:44 - Breaking stigma through honesty about mental health
12:04 - Final reflections on prevention and resilience
13:20 - Closing thoughts and resources

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