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

Latest Episodes:

Depression Treatment Explained: How Antidepressants Work and Why They’re Not a Weakness Jan 19, 2021

Show notes

Why is there still so much resistance to taking antidepressants when they can be life-changing for people living with depression? In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we talk with Michael Landsberg, founder of the mental health initiative Sick Not Weak, about his personal journey with depression, the stigma surrounding antidepressants, and why acknowledging depression as an illness — not a weakness — is the first step toward recovery.

Through candid stories, we explore what it feels like to live with untreated depression, how to recognize its subtle onset, and the importance of seeking professional help. Michael’s message is clear: taking medication for depression is no different than taking medication for any other health condition. By sharing openly, we help break stigma, shorten the time it takes for others to get help, and remind each other that depression is treatable and hope is real.

Primary Topics Covered:

The stigma around antidepressants and why many resist medication
Michael Landsberg’s personal experience with anxiety, depression, and treatment
How to recognize the often subtle onset of depression symptoms
Why seeking treatment early makes recovery more likely
The power of shared stories to fight stigma and isolation
How friends and family can notice changes and start supportive conversations

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction: About Giving Voice to Depression and today’s topic
01:01 – Listener question: Why do people resist antidepressants?
02:28 – Starting the conversation: Stigma around depression treatment
04:29 – Michael Landsberg shares his early anxiety and later depression
06:20 – Realizing “sick, not weak” and building a movement around it
08:33 – The turning point: Seeing a psychiatrist for the first time
10:45 – Why depression can creep in so slowly it goes unnoticed
12:05 – How family and friends can step in when someone isn’t themselves
13:33 – The isolation of depression vs. the reality of millions sharing it
15:14 – The power of shared stories to normalize treatment and hope
16:16 – Hosts reflect on their own journeys and the importance of naming experiences
17:09 – Medication, recovery, and the risks of going on/off without support
18:00 – Closing reflections: If you’re struggling, speak up. If someone else is, listen up.

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: Coping Strategies and Support When Life Feels Overwhelming Jan 12, 2021

Show notes

Depression often robs us of hope, making it feel impossible to believe things can get better. In this candid episode of Giving Voice to Depression, licensed psychotherapist Lauren Bittner joins Bridget and Terry to talk about why hope matters, how to find it when you feel like giving up, and the small but powerful ways we can anchor ourselves during overwhelming times.

Lauren shares practical strategies for coping with hopelessness, building resilience, and finding strength in community. Using relatable metaphors like an anchor and buoy, she helps listeners see that even when depression’s waves are strongest, there are ways to keep holding on.

Whether you’re struggling yourself or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers real talk, validation, and practical hope.

Link to Lauren Bittner's site: https://lauren1bittner.wixsite.com/instillhope

Primary Topics Covered:

Why hope is essential for those living with depression
The difference between giving up emotionally vs. persevering
How community and connection build resilience
Practical coping strategies for navigating hopelessness
Visualization and grounding exercises (anchors, buoys, storms)
How to offer hope to others when they can’t find it themselves
The importance of small steps forward (even just “scooching”)

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction: Giving Voice to Depression and today’s focus on hope
01:30 – Why hope feels scarce but is vital in depression recovery
02:40 – Guest introduction: Therapist Lauren Bittner on maintaining mental health
03:18 – High-functioning people struggling and the exhaustion of resilience
04:14 – The role of community and connection in resilience
05:25 – Lauren shares her lived experience with anxiety and depression in 2020
06:02 – Isolation as both symptom and fuel for depression
08:18 – The danger of giving up and how to counter it
10:15 – Turning pain into passion and purpose as a survival strategy
10:24 – Anchor and buoy visualization for weathering depression’s storms
12:23 – Common “anchors” people can rely on when hopeless
13:56 – The ripple effect of holding on for others and community
15:22 – The power of vulnerability and shared stories
16:48 – Closing message: giving yourself the gift of not giving up
17:55 – Practical advice: moving forward even if hope doesn’t feel real
18:41 – Quote on moving forward step by step, moment by moment
19:18 – Final reflections: community, connection, and seeking hope
22:42 – Closing: Remember to speak up if you’re struggling, listen if someone else is

Living with Depression and Bipolar II: Kristin’s Story of Survival and Healing Through Art Jan 05, 2021

Show notes

What does it really mean to be living with depression and bipolar II?

In this intimate rebroadcast, Kristin, a published poet and artist, shares her journey through recurring deep depressions, hospitalizations, and the daily fight against suicidal thoughts. She describes how writing, poetry, and art helped her give voice to depression — and how community, medication, and self-expression provided a path forward.

Kristin calls her illness a “terrible gift.” Through her words, she reminds us that while depression is isolating and cruel, there are ways to find value, healing, and even beauty in survival.

If you’ve ever searched for what depression feels like or wondered how to cope with bipolar disorder, Kristin’s story is a reminder that you are not alone — and that healing can come through connection, creativity, and courage.

Link to Kristin poetry: KristinRoedell.wikidot.com

Primary Topics Covered:

Kristin’s experience living with depression and bipolar II
How writing and poetry became a lifeline through dark times
Hospitalizations, suicidal thoughts, and finding support
Coping with panic attacks and the need for self-compassion
Why she calls her depression a “terrible gift”
The role of medication and therapy in bipolar disorder recovery
How stigma isolates people — and why sharing your voice matters
Finding beauty, community, and meaning even in suffering

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro: holiday rebroadcast and season update
02:07 Introducing Kristin: poet, artist, and survivor
03:12 Depression, worth, and inherent value beyond productivity
04:30 Living through recurring depressions and survival mindset
05:14 Coping with panic attacks and social withdrawal
06:08 Giving voice to depression through poetry and writing
07:30 The lies depression tells vs. the truth of connection
08:23 Living with bipolar II: cycles, hypomania, and deep depression
09:38 Hospitalizations, suicidal thoughts, and finding community
11:33 Jung’s “shadow” and turning pain into creativity
12:36 Why she calls depression a “terrible gift”
13:46 Daily coping: medication, therapy, journaling, and affirmations
15:32 Kristin shares her poem “I Swallowed Hope That Winter”
16:58 Reflections on resilience, wisdom, and community
18:10 Closing thoughts: “Carry on. You are worthy.”

Depression Treatment and Recovery: One Man’s Journey from Alcohol Addiction to Helping Others Dec 29, 2020

Show notes

In this powerful episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Jordan shares his deeply personal journey through depression, alcoholism, and recovery. For years, he wore a mask of strength, hiding his pain from friends and family while secretly struggling with overwhelming sadness and anxiety. Turning to alcohol for relief only worsened his depression, leading to a downward spiral of hospitalizations, jail, and a suicide attempt.

But Jordan’s story is also one of resilience and transformation. After finally committing to sobriety, he not only found healing but also discovered purpose in helping others. Now, as a mental health professional, Jordan supports people at their lowest moments—reminding them that recovery is possible and that they are not alone.

If you or someone you love is battling depression or addiction, Jordan’s journey offers hope, strength, and a reminder that change is possible, no matter how dark things feel.

Primary Topics Covered:

The hidden pain of growing up with depression
Self-medication and how alcohol worsens depression
Hitting rock bottom: hospitalization, jail, and a suicide attempt
The turning point: choosing sobriety and taking mental health seriously
The importance of therapy, medication, and daily commitment to wellness
Finding strength and purpose in helping others with depression and addiction
Why hearing "I’ve been where you are" can be life-saving

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to the episode and guest
02:29 – Jordan recalls early signs of depression as a child and teen
03:56 – Hiding depression from family, friends, and teammates
04:33 – First experiences with alcohol and its temporary relief
05:40 – When alcohol turned destructive: AA, jail, and hospitalization
07:14 – Hiding in closets: depression, anxiety, and isolation
08:19 – Hospitalization and suicide attempt lead to formal diagnosis
09:05 – Finding sobriety and learning how to manage depression
10:25 – Becoming a mental health professional to help others
12:04 – Jordan’s message: recovery is possible, even when it feels impossible
13:25 – Full-circle moment: working in the same facility where he once received care
14:15 – The power of telling someone, “I’ve been where you are”

Depression and the Holidays: Coping With Christmas When You’re Struggling Dec 24, 2020

Show notes

For many, Christmas is not the most wonderful time of the year. If you’re grieving, battling depression, or simply struggling to make it through the holidays, this episode is for you.

Written and read by John Pavlovitz, this heartfelt message speaks directly to those carrying heavy burdens during a season that often amplifies loneliness and loss. Whether you’re mourning a loved one, facing addiction, or simply trying to survive another day, these words remind you of two vital truths: you are not alone—and this is not the end of your story.

This episode is a gift of solidarity and hope for anyone who feels unseen in the glow of holiday lights.

🎙️ Primary Topics Covered

Why holidays can worsen depression, grief, and loneliness
Messages for those struggling with addiction, self-hatred, or despair
The unseen reality behind holiday celebrations
The importance of solidarity: you are not the only one hurting
Hope that today’s pain does not define tomorrow
A compassionate reminder that the story isn’t over
How Giving Voice to Depression offers support year-round

⏱️ Timestamps

00:00 - Welcome to this special holiday message
00:40 - Introduction to John Pavlovitz’s reflection
01:15 - For those grieving or missing loved ones this Christmas
02:10 - For those living with depression or mental illness
02:55 - For those struggling with addiction or self-hatred
03:40 - For those feeling alone or isolated during the holidays
04:20 - You are not alone in this struggle
04:50 - This pain is not permanent—your story continues
05:15 - Closing words of encouragement and solidarity

How to Talk About Depression: Breaking Shame and Finding Hope in Recovery Dec 22, 2020

Show notes

For most of his life, Dan lived with depression in silence — hiding his pain from friends, family, and even himself. It wasn’t until a mental health crisis and hospitalization that he realized secrecy was costing him more than depression itself.

In this moving conversation, Dan shares his first public story of living with depression, suicidal thoughts, and shame — and how finally talking about it has lifted some of the weight. His honesty is a gift of connection, gratitude, and hope to anyone struggling in silence.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to be living with depression while pretending everything is fine, Dan’s courage to stop hiding will resonate deeply.

Primary Topics Covered:

Why depression stigma keeps people silent, even with friends
Dan’s story of living with depression since childhood
The toll of hiding pain: exhaustion, isolation, and shame
How grief, family stress, and work pressures worsened his illness
Hospitalization as a turning point in survival and recovery
The role of family support during suicidal ideation
Why speaking up reduces shame and builds connection
Intergenerational conversations: learning openness from his son
Depression as an illness — not a personal failure
The healing power of gratitude and shared stories

Timestamps:

00:00 Welcome and intro
00:35 Holiday reflections and the “gifts” of connection, gratitude, and hope
01:26 Introducing Dan: first-time storyteller in recovery
02:42 Why men often hide depression, even from close friends
04:20 Dan’s personal crisis: grief, back pain, and family stress
05:01 Suicidal thoughts and hospitalization as a turning point
06:16 Discovering the importance of speaking up
07:53 The emotional drain of hiding depression
09:28 Why talking takes away shame and stigma
10:40 Depression impacts loved ones too — guilt and family conversations
11:45 Open discussions with his son about depression
12:36 Fighting stigma: “depression doesn’t care who you are”
13:22 The voice of depression vs. the voice of self
14:15 Learning to describe depression so others can understand
15:25 Connection and community as gifts for healing
16:32 Closing reflections: courage, hope, and gratitude

Depression, Anxiety, and Resilience: Mental Health Lessons from the Pandemic Dec 15, 2020

Show notes

2020 was a year unlike any other. The pandemic, political division, racial injustice, and social isolation created what mental health professionals call a collective trauma — leaving many of us struggling with depression, anxiety, and loneliness.

In this year-in-review episode, psychologist Dr. R. Kwaku-Smith joins Giving Voice to Depression to reflect on the mental health challenges of 2020 and share tools for moving forward. He discusses why it’s okay not to be okay, how to manage emotional exhaustion, and why connection, love, and daily intentional practices are essential for recovery.

If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, depleted, or hopeless after a year of nonstop stress, this conversation will remind you that you are not alone — and that healing is possible.

Primary Topics Covered:

How the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted routines and worsened depression
The role of collective trauma in 2020 (pandemic, racism, political division)
Why loss and isolation deepened the mental health crisis
The “syndemic”: overlapping crises that amplified stress and hopelessness
Coping strategies: diet, exercise, sleep, journaling, meditation, self-reflection
Why it’s okay not to be okay — but dangerous to stay stuck there
The healing role of love, community, and accountability partners
How to forgive yourself and start again after setbacks
Building resilience and hope for the future

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction: reviewing 2020 through a mental health lens
01:16 – Pandemic, division, and racial injustice as defining challenges
02:10 – Early hopes of 2020 vs. shocking global realities
03:31 – How the pandemic disrupted routines and stability
04:38 – The concept of collective trauma
06:01 – Emotional exhaustion, alcohol use, and rising domestic violence
07:34 – How depression deepened during overlapping crises
08:05 – Why admitting “I’m not okay” is the first step
08:15 – Coping basics: diet, exercise, sleep, and managing what we consume mentally
09:11 – Finding support: clinicians, accountability partners, friends, family
10:23 – Facing hard truths and building willpower for change
11:27 – Love as the greatest medicine for depression
12:20 – Why it’s normal to feel depressed in extraordinary times
13:19 – Dr. Smith’s daily practices: journaling, morning meditation, nightly reflection
14:37 – Forgiveness, fresh starts, and self-compassion
15:15 – Breathing practices and stoking embers of hope
16:29 – Looking forward to a healthier new year

Bipolar Disorder and Addiction Recovery: How Zane Found Humor and Hope Dec 08, 2020

Show notes

What does it look like to live through bipolar disorder, depression, addiction, and suicidal thoughts—and still find hope?

In this episode, comedian and rapper Zane Thomas shares his raw and unfiltered story of mental illness and recovery. From battling substance abuse to learning how to “talk back” to depression, Zane uses humor and honesty to break stigma and show what healing really looks like.

He also reveals why asking someone “What are you excited for?” can be a more powerful lifeline than “Are you okay?”—and how small shifts in language can open the door to meaningful conversations about mental health.

This is a powerful reminder that recovery is possible, that depression’s lies are not the truth, and that laughter can be a tool for survival.

Primary Topics Covered:

Zane’s lived experience with bipolar disorder, depression, and addiction
How depression lies and repeats the same script to everyone
Using humor as a tool for healing and connection
The dangers of alcohol and substance abuse with bipolar disorder
The turning point: losing a friend and spiraling further into addiction
How self-talk and “talking back” to dark thoughts became a coping tool
Why “What are you excited for?” is a life-saving question
The role of music, comedy, and community in recovery

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to Zane Thomas and his story
02:09 - Viral Instagram post on suicidal thoughts
04:23 - Talking back to depression like a bully
06:49 - Realizing depression tells everyone the same lies
07:57 - Humor as a coping strategy for mental health
09:05 - When depression comes from “nowhere”
10:37 - The power of the word “yet” in recovery
11:42 - Music, comedy, and creativity shaped by illness
12:35 - Substance abuse as a coping mechanism
13:31 - Losing a friend and spiraling deeper into addiction
14:29 - The toxic relationship between alcohol and bipolar disorder
15:28 - Gambling with alcohol and emotions
16:54 - Offering to listen before it’s too late
17:01 - Asking “What are you excited for?” as a mental health tool
18:00 - Breaking stigma by keeping conversations real

Breathing Techniques for Anxiety and Depression: How to Calm Your Mind and Body Dec 01, 2020

Show notes

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Ambrose, a coach specializing in movement, nutrition, and mindfulness, shares how breathwork can be a powerful tool for managing anxiety, depression, and stress. From understanding the biological connection between breathing and emotional regulation, to learning simple, actionable techniques like “straw breath,” listeners will walk away with practical tools they can use anytime.

We explore how mindful breathing supports emotional resilience, why self-compassion is essential when practicing, and how breath connects us back to balance during challenging times.

Link to stress-free schools program: https://skyschools.org/

Primary Topics Covered

Why breathing practices are powerful for mental health
The link between movement, nutrition, and emotional wellbeing
How isolation affects mood and biology (hormones like serotonin & oxytocin)
The importance of self-compassion in mental health management
Misconceptions about meditation and mindfulness
SKY (Sudarshan Kriya Yoga) and other breath techniques
Step-by-step guide to practicing Straw Breath
How to integrate daily breathing practices into your routine

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction: Why self-care tools matter more than ever
02:15 – Ambrose’s background in coaching body, mind, and nutrition
03:50 – How movement, nutrition, and connection affect mental health
05:30 – Ambrose’s lived experiences with depression and low mood
07:20 – Why breathwork and mindfulness require practice
09:30 – Misconceptions about meditation and how to reframe them
11:30 – Introduction to SKY (Sudarshan Kriya Yoga) breathing practice
13:30 – Guided “Straw Breath” practice for calming anxiety
16:30 – Reflections on practice, self-compassion, and daily application
18:00 – Resources, links, and encouragement to keep practicing

Coping With Holiday Depression and Anxiety: Real Strategies for Christmas and Beyond Nov 24, 2020

Show notes

The holiday season can be one of the hardest times of year for those living with depression and anxiety. Expectations of joy and celebration often clash with grief, loneliness, and stress—especially in the aftermath of the pandemic.

In this episode, psychologist Dr. Maggie Mulqueen offers compassionate insights and actionable strategies for coping with holiday depression. She discusses the importance of releasing unrealistic expectations, embracing a both/and mindset (grief and gratitude can coexist), and finding purpose in small, meaningful actions.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or weighed down this holiday season, this conversation is a reminder: you are not alone, and there are real ways to protect your mental health while honoring your truth.

Link to referenced article: https://www.drmaggiemulqueen.com/publications

Primary Topics Covered:

Why depression and anxiety intensify during the holidays
The impact of seasonal affective disorder and lingering pandemic stress
Three groups of people struggling differently at Christmas
The emotional weight of grief and “empty seats at the table”
How to embrace a both/and mindset during difficult times
The harm of toxic positivity and why minimizing doesn’t help
Small acts of kindness and finding purpose to ease depression
The role of uncertainty in worsening mental health struggles
A hopeful holiday reflection: In the Time of Pandemic by Kitty O’Meara

Timestamps:

00:00 - Welcome and introduction to holiday struggles
01:00 - Why depression and anxiety worsen during the holidays
01:22 - Dr. Maggie Mulqueen shares pandemic and holiday insights
02:14 - Why therapists are busiest November through March
02:53 - Cancelled gatherings and emotional fallout
03:11 - Three groups most impacted by holiday depression
04:57 - Families “stuck” together and added stress
05:56 - The weight of grief and missing loved ones
06:31 - No single “right” way to celebrate holidays
07:26 - Embracing both/and thinking for resilience
08:24 - Depression and the pressure to “be happy”
09:30 - Why purpose helps protect mental health
10:47 - Pandemic uncertainty and collective anxiety
12:13 - The harm of toxic positivity and not being heard
13:52 - Shame, silence, and holiday expectations
14:39 - Final takeaway: compassion and complexity
15:55 - Reading of In the Time of Pandemic by Kitty O’Meara
17:23 - Gratitude, hope, and the “great reset”
18:05 - Closing reflections and next week’s preview

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