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

Latest Episodes:

Suicide Awareness and Coping with Depression: Real Stories That Save Lives Sep 15, 2020

Show notes

Is there hope after a suicide attempt?

In this powerful Suicide Prevention Month episode, you’ll hear from people who stood at the very edge of life — convinced they were a burden, that things would never get better, that suicide was their only escape. And yet, today, they’re alive to share their truth: life can change, recovery is possible, and hope is real.

These lived-experience voices expose depression for the liar it is, challenge the stigma that keeps so many silent, and remind us that suicide doesn’t end pain — it ends possibility.

You’ll also learn about the Columbia Protocol (C-SSRS), a suicide risk assessment tool endorsed by the CDC and WHO, with simple questions that can help save a life.

If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to stand on the edge, or if you’re searching for reasons to keep going, this episode is a lifeline.

Link to Columbia Protocol Questionnaire: https://cssrs.columbia.edu/the-columbia-scale-c-ssrs/cssrs-for-families-friends-and-neighbors/

Primary Topics Covered:

Why direct questions about suicide matter
The Columbia Protocol (C-SSRS) and how to use it
Misconceptions and stigma around suicide and depression
Stories of people who nearly died — and why they’re glad they survived
The lies depression tells vs. the reality of recovery
How faith, therapy, medication, and community play a role in healing
Messages of hope from survivors: “It doesn’t have to be this way”
Why speaking up, listening, and connection can save lives

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro — framing Suicide Prevention Month
01:10 Why direct language about suicide is essential
02:00 The Columbia Protocol (C-SSRS) explained
03:30 Voices from the edge: lived experiences of suicidal thinking
04:33 Misconceptions and stigma that keep people from seeking help
06:30 How depression lies: “you’re not enough”
08:13 The irrational logic of suicidal thoughts
09:47 Stories of attempts and realizations that life was still worth living
12:08 Medication, therapy, and healing beyond coping
13:26 Messages to past selves: “you are not a failure”
15:30 Why survivors are glad they’re alive — family, milestones, joy
17:39 Building strength by admitting weakness and seeking support
19:30 Closing reflections: hope is real, share this episode during Suicide Prevention Month

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/

How to Help Someone Suicidal: Warning Signs, Crisis Lines, and Real Stories Sep 08, 2020

Show notes

Suicide Prevention Awareness Month is a reminder that every story shared and every conversation held can help save a life. In this special compilation episode, we revisit some of the most powerful moments from our archives — stories of people who once believed suicide was their only option, and the hope, recovery, and support they found instead.

You’ll hear from attempt survivors, mental health advocates, and crisis line experts about what suicidal thinking really feels like, how stigma and myths keep people silent, and why direct questions and compassionate listening can make all the difference.

We also share practical suicide prevention tools, including how to recognize warning signs, what to say when someone is struggling, and how crisis hotlines and text lines truly save lives.

This episode is a resource for anyone asking: “How can I help someone suicidal?” or “What can I do if I’m feeling hopeless?” You are not alone, and hope is real.

Primary Topics Covered:

Why every depression story is part of suicide prevention
Debunking myths about suicide (not “selfish,” not “attention-seeking”)
How to ask direct questions when someone may be suicidal
Recognizing warning signs: hopelessness, burden, isolation, lethal means
Crisis hotlines: what happens when you call and why they work
Crisis text line: why it’s especially helpful for young people
The value of safety plans and proactive support networks
Real stories of attempt survivors who are grateful to be alive
How loved ones can listen and support without judgment

Timestamps:

00:00 – Intro: Why Suicide Prevention Month matters
01:13 – Why every depression story is suicide prevention
02:05 – Mark Hennick: Myths and misconceptions about suicide
04:20 – Asking the right questions: “Would you be doing us a favor by dying?”
05:07 – The Suicide Prevention Lifeline: How calling helps
06:08 – Dr. John Draper: Why crisis intervention works long after the call
07:56 – Corinne’s story: How a hotline call saved my life
09:49 – Crisis text line: How texting can be lifesaving for youth
10:48 – How safety plans prevent crises before they escalate
12:47 – Personalizing crisis plans for real-world situations
14:18 – Justin’s story: From rock bottom to hope and connection
16:14 – Why more people care about you than you think
17:16 – Closing: Speak up. Listen up. Prevention is possible

Surviving a Suicide Attempt: A Depression Recovery Story of Hope and Healing Sep 01, 2020

Show notes

In this powerful episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Bob shares his deeply personal story of surviving a suicide attempt and finding hope through therapy, connection, and support. At 64, he feels stronger than ever — but just five years earlier, depression convinced him he wasn’t enough.

Through his candid story, Bob reveals how quickly suicidal thoughts can escalate, how a compassionate nurse changed the trajectory of his recovery, and how therapy and routines helped him reclaim his life. His message offers encouragement, validation, and hope to anyone living with depression or suicidal thoughts.

Whether you are struggling yourself or supporting someone you love, this episode is a reminder that depression lies, recovery is possible, and connection saves lives.

Primary Topics Covered:

How depression fuels lies of worthlessness and being a burden
The sudden onset of suicidal thoughts (sometimes within 15 minutes)
The role of compassion and human connection in saving lives
The importance of therapy (CBT, DBT, and talk therapy) in recovery
Building resilience with routines and values-based living
Post-hospitalization risks and why awareness is critical
Finding hope, healing, and renewed purpose after a suicide attempt

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to the episode and Suicide Prevention Month
01:36 - Mental Health America data on depression and suicidality
02:20 - Meet Bob: his background and suicide attempt survival
03:45 - Why Bob chose to share his story now
04:04 - Depression, chronic pain, and the spiral of hopelessness
05:37 - Believing the lie of being a burden
06:58 - The sudden decision: 15 minutes from thought to attempt
07:12 - Waking up in the hospital after his attempt
08:00 - The compassion of a nurse who changed Bob’s perspective
09:57 - Realizing self-worth beyond success or achievement
11:43 - Shifting focus: prioritizing mental health and therapy
12:29 - The challenge of telling family about his attempt
13:58 - Therapy journey: CBT, DBT, and healing through talk therapy
15:31 - Living by values instead of external validation
16:01 - Catching dark thoughts early and reaching out for help
16:53 - The power of routines, structure, and self-care
17:29 - Caring for mind, body, and spirit in recovery
17:51 - Trauma reminders and the will to never return to that place
18:22 - Finding joy and authenticity at 64
19:29 - Reflections on survival, gratitude, and purpose
20:38 - The importance of awareness: suicide can escalate in minutes
21:56 - How one person can change a life — the power of support
22:53 - Building a safety net of community and connection
23:36 - Closing reflections on resilience, warning signs, and hope

How to Tell Your Parents You’re Depressed: Tips for Teens, Young Adults & College Students Aug 25, 2020

Show notes

For many teens and young adults, one of the hardest steps in seeking help is simply saying the words: “I think I’m depressed.” Fear of being dismissed, judged, or misunderstood keeps countless young people suffering in silence.

In this episode, psychologist Dr. Anita Sanz offers practical advice for students who are afraid to open up about depression to their parents. You’ll learn how to describe symptoms without self-diagnosing, when to bring in a trusted ally like a teacher or family doctor, and why your mental health must come first — no matter how your parents react.

We also speak directly to parents: how to listen with empathy, avoid minimizing your child’s pain, and respond in ways that support healing instead of shutting down conversation.

This episode is for anyone asking: “How do I tell my parents I’m depressed?” — and for the parents who want to know how to respond with compassion.

Primary Topics Covered:

Why many teens and young adults fear telling parents about depression
Practical tips for starting difficult mental health conversations
How to describe symptoms without self-diagnosing
The role of trusted allies: teachers, doctors, coaches, family friends
What to do if parents don’t understand or dismiss the concerns
Why self-care and seeking help must continue regardless of family reaction
The importance of school counselors and campus mental health resources
Advice for parents: listening, avoiding judgment, supporting treatment

Timestamps:

00:00 – Intro: Why teens fear opening up about depression
01:22 – Listener’s letter: “I’m afraid to tell my parents I’m depressed”
02:48 – Fears of being ridiculed or told to “just deal with it”
03:37 – Dr. Anita Sanz: First steps in preparing for the conversation
04:25 – How to describe symptoms instead of self-diagnosing
05:56 – Enlisting an ally: teachers, doctors, family friends
07:26 – Finding the right time and place for difficult conversations
07:56 – Why you must still seek help even if parents dismiss it
08:31 – School counselors and campus resources for mental health
09:11 – Avoiding guilt and “shoulding on yourself” when depressed
10:25 – Depression lies: reminding yourself of your worth
11:15 – Direct advice to parents: listening without judgment
12:58 – Why depression is not a parenting failure
13:48 – Personal reflections on depression in young adulthood
14:39 – Final advice: starting small, practicing openness, finding safe support
15:52 – Closing: Speak up. Listen up. You are not alone.

Recognizing Depression in Children: Signs Parents Should Never Ignore Aug 17, 2020

Show notes

How do you know if your child’s irritability, tummy aches, or withdrawal from friends might actually be signs of depression in children? In this powerful conversation, mental health professional Susan Ringle joins us to share how depression often looks different in kids than adults—and why parents should trust their instincts when something feels “off.”

You’ll learn how to recognize childhood depression symptoms, what next steps to take if you’re worried, and how to support both your child and yourself through the process.

This episode is a must-listen for parents, caregivers, teachers, and anyone who loves a child struggling with emotions that go deeper than sadness.

Link to Mental Health America self-screening tools: https://screening.mhanational.org/

Primary Topics Covered

Why depression looks different in children than in adults
Common signs of depression in kids: irritability, tantrums, somatic complaints (tummy aches, headaches)
How to distinguish between sadness and clinical depression
The “COAL” framework for parents: Curiosity, Observation, Acceptance, Loving Guidance
The role of sleep, appetite, and regression in detecting mental health struggles
How COVID-19 and isolation have impacted kids’ mental health
When and how to seek professional help (pediatricians, school counselors, child therapists)
Why parents also need support when raising a child with depression
Breaking stigma: why seeking help is a strength, not a weakness
Resources for families, including screenings and child-focused therapy

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro and technical setup
02:39 Why childhood depression looks different than adult depression
03:55 Symptoms parents might overlook: irritability, tantrums, regression
05:10 Red flags: appetite changes, sleep problems, loss of interest in play
06:52 Why parents are the best experts on their kids’ behavior
08:26 The COAL approach: Curiosity, Observation, Acceptance, Loving Guidance
10:48 COVID-19’s impact on children’s emotional health
12:57 Balancing isolation with safe peer connection
15:18 Where to seek help: pediatricians, school counselors, child therapists
16:55 Why parents need their own support when caring for a depressed child
20:09 Stigma, guilt, and why depression isn’t anyone’s fault
22:32 Why screenings and early intervention matter
26:22 The risks of untreated childhood depression and accidental self-harm
29:30 Suicide prevention and children’s limited understanding of death
31:10 Depression’s impact on school performance and memory
33:15 Final thoughts and trusted resources for families

Living with Depression: John on Stigma, Self-Medication, and Finding Real Help Aug 11, 2020

Show notes

What does depression really feel like?

For John, it feels like an attack in his own voice — a relentless, negative inner monologue determined to erase his self-worth. In this deeply moving conversation, he shares what it’s like to grow up hiding depression, self-medicate with alcohol, avoid treatment for decades, and finally begin opening up about his struggles.

John’s story offers one of the most visceral explanations of depression you’ll hear. His metaphors — from a toxic guest in your head to a spreadsheet of self-worth where positives are erased and negatives multiply — put words to what so many of us silently endure.

If you’ve ever wondered what depression feels like or how stigma delays treatment, John’s honesty will help you feel less alone — and remind you that healing is possible.

Primary Topics Covered:

John’s first experiences with depression as a teenager
Hiding pain while appearing “fine” to others
Decades of self-medicating with alcohol instead of seeking help
How stigma kept him from reaching out
Antidepressants as an imperfect but helpful tool
The metaphor of depression as “an attack in your own voice”
The spreadsheet of self-worth: positives erased, negatives multiplying
The importance of hearing others’ stories to feel less alone
His message of hope: depression does not last forever

Timestamps:

00:00 Terri explains the rebroadcast and importance of self-care
01:34 Announcement: partnership with Mental Health America Wisconsin
02:34 John shares why he reached out to tell his story
03:15 First depression in adolescence — hiding behind a brave face
05:07 Turning to alcohol as self-medication for decades
06:16 Stigma and the fear of asking for help
07:14 Antidepressants: benefits and frustrations
08:00 John describes what depression feels like — “an attack in my own voice”
09:38 The spreadsheet of self-worth metaphor
11:10 Why hearing others’ stories made him feel less alone
12:42 Conversation about commonalities in depression experiences
13:02 John’s message of hope: “this will end, there is light at the end”
14:37 Gratitude for his courage in sharing his first public story
15:45 Closing reflections and reminders to speak up, listen up

Living with Depression and a Racing Mind: Mindfulness and ACT Strategies to Find Calm Aug 04, 2020

Show notes

How do you deal with depression when your mind won’t stop racing?

In this episode, Dr. Steven C. Hayes — founder of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) — shares practical tools for calming intrusive thoughts, reducing self-criticism, and finding psychological flexibility.

Through humor, metaphors, and science-backed strategies, Dr. Hayes explains how naming your mind, playfully reframing negative thoughts, and practicing self-compassion can help stop the cycle of overthinking. He also describes why being of service to others works like an antidepressant, and how mindfulness gives us the power to pivot back into the present moment.

If you’ve ever struggled with coping with depression and a racing mind, this episode offers hope, tools, and perspective from one of the most quoted psychologists in the world — and someone who’s lived it himself.

Primary Topics Covered:

What Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is and how it works
Why naming your mind (“George”) can help calm intrusive thoughts
Simple exercises to diffuse negative self-talk
How to humanize your inner critic with humor and play
Using mindfulness to slow down racing thoughts
Why being of service can act like a natural antidepressant
Reframing depression as an opportunity for connection and growth
Why honesty about mental health struggles increases empathy and connection
The importance of self-compassion and seeing yourself as whole

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro — Welcome and episode overview
01:00 Guest introduction: Dr. Steven C. Hayes, founder of ACT
02:00 What ACT therapy is and why it helps with depression
03:30 Learning psychological flexibility through mentors and self-kindness
04:30 When your brain becomes a dictator: intrusive thoughts and self-criticism
06:20 How being of service can act like an antidepressant
07:40 The “racing car” brain metaphor — and learning to put on the brakes
08:50 Naming your mind (Dr. Hayes calls his “George”) to create distance
10:20 Playful ways to diffuse negative thoughts: cartoons, singing, repetition
12:40 Reframing negative self-talk with compassion for your younger self
14:50 Why we should stop hiding our depression — and how openness builds connection
17:40 Depression as an opportunity: turning “lemons into lemonade”
19:20 Mindfulness as a pivot back into the present moment
21:00 Closing reflections and reminder: “Speak up if you’re struggling, listen up if someone else is.”

Bipolar Disorder Explained: Misconceptions, Treatment, and Life Beyond Stigma Jul 28, 2020

Show notes

Too often, stigma and misunderstanding keep people living with bipolar disorder in silence and shame. In this episode, mental health advocate Michelle Yang shares her powerful journey from misdiagnosis and crisis to stability, advocacy, and thriving with bipolar disorder.

Michelle’s story highlights how stigma—at school, at home, and in the workplace—nearly derailed her life, but also how she found strength through treatment, resilience, and community. Today, she’s breaking the cycle by speaking out, proving that people with bipolar disorder can and do live full, successful, and joyful lives.

If you or someone you love lives with bipolar disorder, this episode will bring insight, encouragement, and a reminder that recovery is possible—and stigma does not define us.

Link to Michelle's article: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/asian-american-mental-illness_n_5cacad09e4b02e7a705dae97

Link to Michelle's Blog: http://www.livingwellhappily.com/

Primary Topics Covered:

How stigma impacts mental health diagnosis and recovery
Michelle Yang’s lived experience with bipolar disorder
The difference between wellness and external “success markers” like grades or jobs
Cultural barriers to recognizing and treating mental illness
What people most misunderstand about bipolar disorder
Why sharing positive stories of recovery is vital to breaking stigma

Timestamps:

00:01 – Why real stories of recovery matter when you feel alone
00:29 – Michelle Yang’s early experiences with stigma and dismissal
02:28 – A high school moment overlooked as a cry for help
04:05 – “Good grades don’t equal good mental health”
05:07 – Depression spiraling into mania while abroad in college
07:09 – Family response and hospitalization after a psychotic episode
08:48 – Taking a leave of absence and returning stronger
09:21 – Building a career, family, and community while living with bipolar disorder
10:36 – Choosing advocacy over silence: ending the shame cycle
11:56 – “It doesn’t define me”: Michelle’s message of hope
13:07 – Common misconceptions about bipolar disorder

Bipolar Disorder Symptoms and Stigma: A Personal Story of Struggle and Strength Jul 21, 2020

Show notes

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we sit down with Michelle Yang, who courageously shares her journey of living with depression and bipolar disorder while growing up in an immigrant family. For over 20 years, Michelle kept her struggles a secret—battling shame, fear, and cultural stigma that prevented her from getting help.

She describes the trauma of immigration, the pressure of being a high-achieving student, and the terrifying symptoms of untreated bipolar disorder. Michelle also opens up about how stigma in her family and community delayed her access to care, and why sharing her story now is an act of healing and advocacy.

If you or someone you know is living with depression or bipolar disorder, Michelle’s story is a powerful reminder that you are not alone—and that finding your voice can break stigma and inspire others.

Link to Michelle's Blog: http://www.livingwellhappily.com/

Link to Michelle's article we referenced: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/asian-american-mental-illness_n_5cacad09e4b02e7a705dae97

Primary Topics Covered:

The hidden struggles of living with bipolar disorder and depression as a teen.
The impact of immigration trauma and family pressures on mental health.
How cultural stigma delayed Michelle’s access to treatment.
The dangers of dismissing symptoms as “teen drama” or “cultural differences.”
The power of naming your experiences and finding support.

Timestamps:

00:49 – Introduction to Michelle’s story
01:28 – Keeping depression and bipolar disorder secret for 20 years
02:38 – Immigration trauma and cultural challenges
04:03 – Childhood responsibilities and family pressures
05:31 – Early symptoms of bipolar disorder and mania
06:18 – The crushing shame of mental illness in adolescence
07:19 – How stigma and cultural misconceptions delayed help
09:13 – Michelle begs her parents for mental health support
10:15 – Family fear and stigma preventing treatment
11:24 – Reading from Michelle’s Huffington Post article
12:41 – A heartbreaking dismissal from a doctor
13:06 – Looking ahead to part two of Michelle’s story

Healthcare Workers and Trauma: Coping with Depression, Anxiety, and PTSD from COVID-19 Jul 14, 2020

Show notes

The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a devastating toll on frontline workers — not only physically, but emotionally and mentally. Nurses, doctors, chaplains, and caregivers have carried the burden of loss, isolation, and trauma, often while working without rest or adequate protection.

In this episode, chaplain and mindfulness instructor Christy shares her firsthand experience supporting patients, families, and healthcare workers during the pandemic. From complicated grief and burnout to the early signs of depression, anxiety, and PTSD, Christy describes what it’s really like on the COVID-19 frontline.

This powerful conversation explores how healthcare workers can cope with trauma, why self-care is not optional, and how compassion, solidarity, and connection are key to surviving — and healing from — this crisis.

Link to article #1: https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2020/07/coronavirus-special-mental-health-disaster/613510/

Link to article #2: https://time.com/5817435/covid-19-mental-health-coronavirus/

Primary Topics Covered:

The mental health toll of COVID-19 on frontline workers
Why nurses, doctors, and caregivers are at higher risk of PTSD and depression
How chaplains and spiritual care providers support both patients and staff
The weight of grief: patients dying without family at their side
Complicated emotions for healthcare workers (fear, gratitude, overwhelm)
The importance of self-care, peer support, and professional mental health care
Post-traumatic stress vs. post-traumatic growth in healthcare settings
Why compassion, solidarity, and nurturing self-talk matter now more than ever

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction: The mental health impact of COVID-19
01:17 – Comparing COVID-19 with the SARS outbreak and its psychiatric aftermath
02:24 – Focus on healthcare workers: guest chaplain Christy’s perspective
03:36 – Emotional overwhelm and the weight of social injustice
04:46 – Shifting from supporting patients to supporting staff as well
05:58 – Isolation, mortality, and grief in hospitals
07:15 – Early signs of PTSD in frontline workers — even caregivers themselves
08:04 – Potential for both post-traumatic stress and post-traumatic growth
09:37 – Loss of connection and the difficulty of grieving without touch
12:00 – Nurses and doctors share their “complicated” feelings about the pandemic
13:54 – What frontline workers can do to reduce mental health risks
14:48 – The essential role of self-care and nurturing self-talk
15:30 – A message of hope: courage, compassion, and light in the darkness
16:37 – How we can continue to support frontline workers after the crisis
18:20 – Closing reflections: tending to ourselves while caring for others

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

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

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected