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

Latest Episodes:

How to Prevent a Mental Health Crisis: Early Warning Signs and Coping Strategies Apr 06, 2021

Show notes

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we explore how to prevent a mental health crisis before it escalates. Our guest, Corinne, shares her powerful story of reaching out for help during one of her darkest moments — a call that saved her life.

She explains the early warning signs of depression and how she uses a simple scale to monitor her mental health before reaching a breaking point. Corinne walks us through practical coping strategies like therapy, exercise, sleep, meditation, and building a strong support network.

This conversation is a reminder that crisis prevention starts with awareness — knowing when to check in with yourself, when to reach out, and how to stay connected. Mental health struggles don’t have to be faced in silence or shame.

Whether you live with depression or love someone who does, this episode offers life-saving insights about staying safe, building resilience, and finding hope.

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

Primary Topics Covered:

Why early intervention is critical in managing depression and anxiety
Corinne’s personal story of calling a suicide prevention hotline
The “mental health scale” tool for monitoring warning signs
Coping strategies that help prevent escalation into crisis
The role of connection, empathy, and honesty in healing
Breaking the silence: why we need to talk openly about depression

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction and episode context
01:14 - Corinne’s experience with depression during pregnancy
02:31 - Why sharing recovery stories matters
04:25 - The mental health “scale” for self-monitoring
05:31 - Corinne’s personal coping steps: therapy, exercise, sleep, meditation
06:20 - The importance of trusted connections and support
07:34 - Understanding when depression shifts from sadness to crisis
09:19 - Suicide prevention hotlines as life-saving interventions
10:44 - The power of honesty and breaking silence about depression
12:04 - Final reflections and takeaways
13:20 - Closing thoughts 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/

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Stories of Hope and Recovery Mar 30, 2021

Show notes

If you’ve ever wondered what actually happens when you call a suicide prevention hotline, you’re not alone. Fear, stigma, and uncertainty often stop people from reaching out for the help they desperately need.

In this episode, journalist Corinne Purtill courageously shares her story of calling a crisis line during one of the darkest moments of her life. She describes the shame, hesitation, and fear she carried into the call — and how the compassionate voice on the other end helped her find hope.

We’ll explore what happens when you call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, how trained counselors respond, and why you don’t need to be at “rock bottom” to reach out. This conversation is proof that talking saves lives, and that help is always available.

Primary Topics Covered:

Misconceptions about suicide hotlines and crisis lines
Corinne Purtill’s lived experience of calling for help
What really happens when you call 988
How shame and stigma stop people from reaching out
The power of hearing a supportive voice in crisis
Why you don’t need to be suicidal to call a hotline
Signs it’s time to reach out for help

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction: Why suicide hotlines matter
01:00 – The purpose of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
02:06 – Corinne’s story: reaching the breaking point
03:34 – Depression’s silence and isolation
04:35 – Shame and stigma around calling for help
06:05 – The “smile mask” and hidden depression
06:54 – Suicidal thoughts and secrecy
08:08 – Depression’s biggest lie
09:09 – Planning to end her life
09:43 – The moment she called the hotline
10:30 – What to say when reaching out
10:57 – The importance of having the right words
11:24 – What happens if you’re placed on hold
12:46 – Recovery: therapy and medication support
13:38 – Recognizing warning signs before crisis

Suicide Prevention Hotline: What Happens When You Call 988 Mar 30, 2021

Show notes

When you’re struggling with depression, suicidal thoughts, or overwhelming emotions, picking up the phone to call a suicide prevention hotline can feel intimidating. But knowing what to expect can make it easier to take that first step.

In this episode, journalist Corinne Purtill shares her powerful personal story of calling a crisis line at one of the darkest points in her life. She opens up about the fear, shame, and misconceptions she carried into the call — and how the trained listener on the other end helped her find connection and hope.

We explore the reality of what happens when you dial 988, the national Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: how the call works, who answers, and why you don’t need to be suicidal to reach out. This conversation is a reminder that crisis lines save lives, and that help is always available, 24/7.

Primary Topics Covered:

Misconceptions about suicide prevention hotlines
What really happens when you call 988
Corinne’s personal story of reaching out during crisis
How depression convinces people to stay silent
The role of shame and stigma in hiding suicidal thoughts
The lifesaving power of having the right words to ask for help
Recovery and support after making that first call

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction: Why 988 matters
01:00 – The purpose of the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
02:06 – Corinne’s story: never expecting to call
03:34 – How depression silences us
04:35 – Privacy vs. shame: the myths about hotlines
06:05 – Hiding depression behind a smile
06:54 – The role of shame in suicidal thoughts
08:08 – Depression’s biggest lie
09:09 – Corinne makes a plan to end her life
09:43 – The moment she called the hotline
10:30 – What to say when you reach out
10:57 – Why the right words matter
11:24 – What happens if you’re on hold when calling 988
12:46 – Recovery through therapy and medication
13:38 – Warning signs to watch for before “code red”

Warning Signs of Depression in Everyday Language: Words That Reveal Mental Health Struggles Mar 23, 2021

Show notes

Depression often hides in plain sight — not just in behaviors, but in the words we use every day. Research shows that certain language patterns can signal emotional distress, depression, and deeper mental health struggles.

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Bridget and Terry explore the warning signs of depression in everyday language. From Crisis Text Line’s analysis of millions of high-risk messages to Dr. Mohammed Al-Masawi’s research on absolutist thinking (“always,” “never,” “completely”), listeners will learn how seemingly simple word choices can reveal hidden struggles.

This episode offers insight into how language can both reflect and shape our mental health, and why paying attention to the words we — and our loved ones — use can open the door to better support, understanding, and recovery.

Link to article: https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/depression-language-differently-mental-health-kurt-cobain-a8194731.html

Primary Topics Covered:

How depression shows up in the words we use
Crisis Text Line’s findings on language patterns in people at risk
Unexpected keywords and emojis that reveal emotional distress
Dr. Mo’s research on absolutist thinking and depression
The role of words like “always,” “never,” and “completely” in rigid thought patterns
Why thinking style is as important as content in predicting depression
How recognizing warning signs in language can help with early intervention
Practical tips to shift from harmful word patterns to healthier communication
How awareness of language can support both prevention and recovery

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction: Why everyday language reveals depression
01:00 – Crisis Text Line’s keyword analysis on high-risk messages
02:21 – Surprising words and emojis tied to emotional distress
03:26 – Dr. Mohammed Al-Masawi’s research on language and depression
04:08 – What absolutist thinking looks like in practice
05:33 – Words like “always,” “never,” “completely” as warning signs
06:33 – How rigid language signals underlying mental health struggles
07:05 – Identifying absolutist thinking in yourself and others
07:53 – Strategies to challenge harmful thought patterns
08:38 – Why changing thinking style takes time and support
09:59 – The role of loved ones, peers, and therapists in noticing language
11:45 – Absolutist thinking across anxiety, depression, and self-harm
12:32 – Using technology and research to improve prevention
13:23 – Bridget’s reflection: catching herself using rigid words
14:37 – Key takeaway: words matter, and they reveal hidden struggles
15:17 – Closing reflections and encouragement

Symptoms and Signs of Depression in Language: Words That Reveal Suicidal Thoughts Mar 23, 2021

Show notes

Did you know the words we use every day can reveal whether someone is struggling with depression — or even having suicidal thoughts?

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Bridget and Terry explore how symptoms and signs of depression show up in language. Drawing on research from Crisis Text Line and Dr. Mohammed Al-Masawi, we look at how certain words, phrases, and thinking styles provide clues to a person’s mental state.

From surprising text keywords that flag high suicide risk, to the dangers of absolutist thinking (“always,” “never,” “completely”), this conversation shows how small language cues can signal something much deeper. By noticing these signs — in ourselves and in others — we can start meaningful conversations, offer support, and even save lives.

Link to article: https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/depression-language-differently-mental-health-kurt-cobain-a8194731.html

Primary Topics Covered:

The connection between depression and language patterns
How Crisis Text Line uses keyword analysis to detect suicide risk
Surprising words and emojis linked to suicidal thoughts
Dr. Mo’s research on absolutist thinking in depression and anxiety
Why words like “always,” “never,” and “completely” are red flags
How rigid language reveals mental health struggles
The difference between negative thoughts and rigid thinking styles
How therapists and loved ones can challenge harmful word patterns
Why paying attention to language can prevent suicide
Practical strategies for recognizing and shifting depressive thinking

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction: The power of words in depression
01:00 – Crisis Text Line’s findings on suicide-related keywords
02:21 – Surprising signs: “800 mg” and the pill emoji
03:26 – Dr. Mohammed Al-Masawi’s research on depression language
04:08 – What absolutist thinking means and why it matters
05:33 – Common words: “always,” “never,” “completely” as indicators
06:33 – How language rigidity signals deeper mental struggles
07:05 – Spotting absolutist thinking in everyday conversations
07:53 – Strategies to challenge harmful word patterns
08:38 – Why thinking style, not just content, predicts depression
09:59 – The role of loved ones and therapists in noticing language
11:45 – Absolutist thinking across anxiety, depression, and self-harm
12:32 – How technology is being used to detect suicide risk
13:23 – Bridget reflects on her own word choices
14:37 – Key takeaway: noticing words can save lives
15:17 – Closing thoughts and encouragement

Coping with Depression: Breathing, Hope, Medication, and the Mental Health System Mar 16, 2021

Show notes

In this season review, Terri and Bridget reflect on the powerful mental health conversations from Season 16 of Giving Voice to Depression. From learning how breathwork can ground us in overwhelming moments, to confronting stigma, to understanding medication without shame, this season covered a wide range of tools and truths about living with depression.

Listeners will hear highlights on:

Why breath is a free and effective mental health management tool.
Honest discussions about depression, stigma, and suicidal thoughts as common experiences.
The importance of hope and meaning, even when it feels impossible to find.
The reality of antidepressants—not as a cure-all, but as a valid option.
Why shared stories are powerful in dismantling stigma.
The mental health system in crisis—barriers to access, representation, and affordability.

This recap is both informative and hopeful, reminding us that while depression isolates, connection and open conversations can make all the difference.

Primary Topics Covered:

Depression coping strategies (breathing, tracking, and routines)
Talking openly about suicidal thoughts without stigma
Hope as a therapeutic and necessary lifeline
Antidepressants: benefits, drawbacks, and real experiences
How stigma prevents people from seeking help
Systemic mental health challenges: access, cost, and representation

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction and purpose of Season 16 recap
01:26 – Episode 163: Breath as a Mental Health Management Tool
02:55 – Episode 164: Talking About Depression Like It’s Common
04:06 – Episode 165: The Year in Review – Mental Health in 2020
05:17 – Episode 166: Holding on to Hope
06:28 – Episode 167: Depression Is a Sickness, Not a Weakness
07:42 – Episode 168: A Conversation About Antidepressants
09:01 – Episode 169: The Power of Shared Stories in Fighting Stigma
10:27 – Episodes 170–171: Stigma is Real & Life Would Be Safer Without Stigma
12:22 – Episode 172: The Value of Tracking Mental Health Symptoms
14:17 – Episode 173: Depression Is Not a Weakness (Victor Armstrong)
15:06 – Episode 174: The Mental Health System in Crisis
17:00 – Looking ahead to Season 17 and call for listener feedback
18:04 – Closing thoughts and encouragement

Depression Recovery Tools: Lessons on Hope, Stigma, and Mental Health Treatment Mar 16, 2021

Show notes

Season 16 of Giving Voice to Depression was filled with raw honesty, practical tools, and powerful insights into living with depression. In this recap, Terri and Bridget highlight the most impactful lessons from the season, offering listeners both validation and hope.

The season explored:

Breath as a grounding tool to manage overwhelming emotions.
Suicidal thoughts as a common, not shameful, part of depression.
The essential role of hope in recovery.
Real talk about antidepressants—their benefits, limitations, and stigma.
The power of sharing stories to dismantle shame and isolation.
Hard truths about the mental health system—including access, affordability, and representation.

Whether you’re struggling with depression or supporting someone who is, this episode offers a powerful reminder that recovery isn’t linear—but community, hope, and honest conversations can make the journey lighter.

Primary Topics Covered:

Coping strategies for depression (breath, routines, tracking)
The role of hope in mental health recovery
Depression stigma and why shared stories matter
Antidepressants and medication management
Talking openly about suicidal thoughts
Systemic barriers in the mental health system

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction and reflection on Season 16
01:26 – Breath as a mental health management tool
02:55 – Talking about depression like it’s common
04:06 – Reviewing the mental health impact of 2020
05:17 – Holding on to hope in dark times
06:28 – Depression is a sickness, not a weakness
07:42 – Real conversations about antidepressants
09:01 – Fighting stigma through shared stories
10:27 – The dangers of stigma and its real consequences
12:22 – The value of tracking mental health symptoms
14:17 – Why depression is not weakness (Victor Armstrong’s insights)
15:06 – The mental health system in crisis
17:00 – Looking ahead to Season 17 and listener feedback
18:04 – Closing reflections and encouragement

America’s Mental Health Crisis: Why the System is Failing and How We Can Fix It Mar 09, 2021

Show notes

The U.S. mental health system is under immense strain. Too many people experiencing depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts face stigma, delayed care, or even criminalization instead of support. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we speak with Victor Armstrong, Director of North Carolina’s Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Abuse, about the urgent need for systemic change.

Victor explores why mental health is often misunderstood, how racial and cultural barriers limit access to treatment, and why our reliance on law enforcement in mental health emergencies too often leads to tragic outcomes. He also discusses suicide prevention, peer support, and why shifting from “crisis response” to real emergency care could save countless lives.

If you’ve ever wondered why the mental health system feels broken—and what can be done to fix it—this episode provides hope, perspective, and a roadmap for change.

Primary Topics Covered:

Why depression is widely misunderstood and stigmatized.
The racial and cultural gaps in U.S. mental health care.
Masculinity, stigma, and the underdiagnosis of depression in men.
Criminalization of mental illness and the failure of crisis response.
Why we must treat mental health episodes as emergencies, not just “crises.”
Suicide prevention strategies that go beyond hotlines and hospitalizations.
The role of peer support and community resources in mental health recovery.
A message of hope: “No matter who you are, your life matters.”

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to the episode
01:20 – Why understanding depression matters
02:07 – Misunderstandings and stigma around mental illness
03:18 – Racial and cultural barriers to seeking treatment
04:23 – Masculinity, stigma, and underdiagnosis in men
05:19 – How mental illness becomes criminalized
06:02 – Emergency vs. “crisis”: the language problem
07:10 – The risks of involving law enforcement in mental health calls
08:29 – Why the system—not the individual—is in crisis
09:11 – How we talk about suicide: shifting the narrative
11:27 – Why people fear discussing mental illness too closely
12:09 – The value of 24/7 crisis lines and anonymous support
13:22 – Suicide prevention as “upstream” intervention
14:04 – Building stronger community partnerships for care
14:18 – The power of peer support specialists
15:23 – A message of hope: “You matter. Your life matters.”
17:42 – Closing reflections

Understanding the Mental Health Crisis: Access to Care, Stigma, Suicide Prevention, and Solutions Mar 09, 2021

Show notes

The United States is facing a mental health crisis, but too often the people most in need are met with stigma, misunderstanding, or even criminalization instead of care. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we talk with Victor Armstrong, Director of North Carolina’s Division of Mental Health, about why the system feels broken and what needs to change.

Victor explains why depression and other conditions are so often misunderstood, how racial and cultural barriers prevent access to care, and why law enforcement is too often called on during mental health emergencies—with dangerous results. He also shares hope and practical solutions, including suicide prevention strategies, peer support programs, and the importance of treating mental health as an emergency instead of a secondary issue.

If you or someone you love has ever struggled to get help, this episode will help you understand the bigger picture of America’s mental health system—and where real change is possible.

Primary Topics Covered:

Why depression is misunderstood and stigmatized
How cultural and racial barriers shape access to care
The dangerous intersection of mental illness and law enforcement
Why we should say “mental health emergency” instead of “crisis”
Suicide prevention: going beyond hotlines and hospitals
Peer support and community partnerships that make a difference
A message of hope: every life matters, and help is available

Timestamps:

The Truth About Depression: Ending Stigma and Shame Around Mental Health Mar 02, 2021

Show notes

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, mental health advocate Victor Armstrong takes on the harmful myth that depression is a sign of weakness. He explains how stigma — in families, communities, and churches — adds unnecessary shame and prevents people from getting help.

Victor shares his lived experience growing up in the rural South, where mental illness wasn’t openly discussed, and reflects on how cultural and systemic stigma still shape the way we talk about depression today. He also highlights the hidden strength of people who live with depression or suicidal thoughts — noting that survival itself is an act of courage.

The episode also features an excerpt from Lauren Brady’s piece, “The Strength in Depression,” which powerfully reframes depression not as weakness, but as resilience.

This is an important conversation for anyone who has ever felt shame because of their mental health — and for allies who want to better understand and fight stigma.

Primary Topics Covered:

Why depression is misunderstood as “weakness”
How stigma in communities and churches impacts mental health
Depression as resilience, not moral failure
The pandemic’s role in increasing awareness — and challenges
Reading from “The Strength in Depression” by Lauren Brady
Why compassion and understanding are more powerful than judgment

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to guest Victor Armstrong
01:08 – How social media led to this important conversation
02:14 – Victor’s message: “You matter. You are not alone.”
03:23 – Seeing people for who they are, not their illness
04:28 – Why depression is not weakness
05:41 – How the pandemic impacted mental health stigma
07:37 – Why awareness must lead to action
08:54 – Growing up where mental health wasn’t discussed
09:57 – Why people with depression face discrimination
11:21 – How cultural stigma prevents open conversations
13:03 – Lauren Brady’s essay “The Strength in Depression”
16:25 – Closing reflections: strength in survival

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