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

Latest Episodes:

What Does Depression Feel Like? Hobbs on Loneliness, Fatigue, Survival, and Finding Hope Apr 27, 2020

Show notes

How do you deal with depression in isolation?

In this candid conversation, Hobbs shares how the pandemic amplified his depression — making simple questions like “how are you?” nearly impossible to answer. He describes the exhaustion of constant change, the loneliness of lost routines, and the crushing weight of moods that could shift within hours.

Through honesty and reflection, Hobbs reveals the coping tools that keep him going: community, exercise, medication, and sharing stories. His words are a reminder that depression lies, isolation magnifies it — but survival is possible with the right supports.

If you’ve ever wondered how to deal with depression when you feel exhausted and alone, this story will resonate.

Primary Topics Covered:

Why “How are you?” became a complicated question in the pandemic
Hobbs’ lived experience with depression, isolation, and exhaustion
The impact of shifting moods on daily life and identity
Why community and connection are lifelines in dark times
Physical exhaustion and brain fog as symptoms of depression
Tools Hobbs uses to cope: exercise, medication, and routine
Battling stigma around men and antidepressants
The importance of preparing a “depression toolbox” before crisis
Why depression lies — and connection tells the truth

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro — revisiting an archived conversation
01:00 Why “how are you?” feels different in uncertain times
02:30 Hobbs on mood swings: “I can only tell you how I feel right now”
04:10 How negativity and the news shape mental health
05:40 The loneliness of lost routines and disconnection
07:40 Exhaustion and sleeping up to 18 hours
09:50 Physical toll of depression: clenched jaw, fatigue
11:00 Why brain fog is part of survival, not weakness
12:15 The healing power of hearing others’ stories
14:00 Fighting depression’s “always” and “never” lies
15:40 Hobbs’ depression toolbox: exercise, meds, community
17:30 Breaking stigma: men and antidepressants
18:50 Closing reflections: speak up, listen up, stay connected

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/

Managing Stress During Uncertain Times: Simple Brain Hacks for Anxiety Relief Apr 20, 2020

Show notes

The COVID-19 pandemic has left many of us feeling overwhelmed by stress, uncertainty, and fear. In this episode, psychologist and author Dr. Melanie Greenberg shares five powerful, science-based strategies to rewire your brain for calm and resilience during times of crisis.

Drawing from her book The Stress-Proof Brain and her Psychology Today article, Dr. Greenberg explains how our brains respond to threats — and how we can shift out of fight-or-flight mode into a calmer, more grounded state.

From breathing practices and grounding exercises to wise decision-making and human connection, this episode offers practical tools for coping with COVID-19 anxiety and strengthening mental health in uncertain times.

Link to article: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-mindful-self-express/202003/5-ways-rewire-your-brain-deal-coronavirus-stress

Dr. Greenberg's website: https://drmelaniegreenberg.com/about/

Primary Topics Covered:

Why our brains struggle with uncertainty, isolation, and unpredictability
The fight-flight-freeze response and its impact on stress and anxiety
Five practical strategies to manage coronavirus-related stress
1. Noticing when you’re triggered
2. Focusing on your senses and breathing
3. Reaching out for connection (friends, family, online communities)
4. Making wise choices, even if imperfect
5. Deciding what level of risk you’re willing to tolerate
The role of visualization and posture in calming the nervous system
Why even small actions (like stretching or house chores) reduce overwhelm
The importance of social support and online communities during isolation
Balancing physical safety with emotional wellbeing

Timestamps:

00:00 – Intro: Pandemic-focused mental health support
01:18 – Meet Dr. Melanie Greenberg, stress expert and psychologist
02:15 – Why COVID-19 stress feels uniquely overwhelming
02:57 – The brain as a “prediction machine” and why uncertainty triggers anxiety
03:42 – Fight-flight-freeze explained in the pandemic context
04:29 – Step 1: Notice when you’re being triggered and ground yourself
05:27 – Step 2: Focus on senses or breathing to slow down stress responses
06:22 – Visualization exercises to calm anxiety (oak tree, knight in armor, water)
07:29 – Step 3: Reach out for human connection despite isolation
08:48 – Step 4: Make wise choices and break problems into small steps
10:36 – Step 5: Decide your personal level of risk tolerance
11:14 – The hidden risks of isolation and why connection matters most
11:33 – The power of online communities and peer support
12:15 – Closing thoughts: resilience, compassion, and hope

Coping with Stress and Anxiety in a Pandemic: A Therapist’s Guide to Mental Health and Connection Apr 13, 2020

Show notes

What does it take to care for your mental health during a global crisis? In this powerful episode of Giving Voice to Depression, therapist Dr. Anita Sands shares how we can protect our emotional well-being, stay connected, and even grow stronger during the challenges of COVID-19.

From simple daily habits like movement and gratitude to deeper lessons about vulnerability, honesty, and connection, Dr. Sands offers practical ways to reduce stress, prevent isolation, and nurture resilience. She also introduces the idea of post-traumatic growth—finding meaning and strength even in painful experiences.

Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or simply feeling the weight of these uncertain times, this conversation reminds us that connection creates hope and that none of us has to go through this alone.

Primary Topics Covered:

Why movement and sunlight help regulate mood during stress
Building routines that balance structure and self-compassion
The power of gratitude and focusing on the good
Contributing to your community as a way to heal
The concept of post-traumatic growth after crisis
Deepening relationships through honest, vulnerable conversations
How to connect meaningfully without physical closeness
Telehealth and virtual therapy options during the pandemic
Creative ways to stay socially engaged, like shared “watch parties”
The importance of reaching out honestly about needs and struggles

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to the episode
01:34 - Therapist Dr. Anita Sands on movement and sunlight for mental health
03:26 - How gratitude and contribution help reduce stress
04:33 - Post-traumatic growth: finding meaning in crisis
05:46 - Shifts in values and gratitude during COVID-19
07:05 - More authentic and honest connections emerging
08:25 - Vulnerability and the importance of being real with others
09:33 - Staying socially connected without physical closeness
10:10 - Telehealth and virtual therapy options explained
10:46 - Creative connection: virtual watch parties and shared experiences
11:40 - Final reflections: resilience, honesty, and reaching out for support
12:58 - Closing thoughts: connection as the new normal

Therapist’s Guide to Reducing Anxiety, Building Routines, and Coping with Change Apr 06, 2020

Show notes

When a global crisis upends our lives, stress, fear, and uncertainty can feel overwhelming. In this episode, psychologist Dr. Anita Sands shares evidence-based strategies to help you manage pandemic anxiety, cope with social isolation, and find resilience in the “new normal.”

You’ll learn why limiting breaking news can protect your mental health, how to build routines that reduce stress, and ways to balance togetherness and alone time. Whether you’re living alone, parenting through the crisis, or simply exhausted by constant change, this conversation offers practical tools to manage anxiety and care for your mental health during difficult times.

Primary Topics Covered:

Why the brain’s fight, flight, or freeze response is triggered during global crises
The mental health impact of quarantine and isolation
Why “media distancing” is as important as social distancing
How to create a breaking news diet to reduce anxiety
The role of flexible routines in providing structure and predictability
Balancing togetherness and alone time for emotional well-being
Practical tips like exercise, sunshine, and downtime to improve mental health
Parenting strategies to help kids feel stable during disruption

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to the episode
01:43 - Why crises trigger fight, flight, or freeze responses
03:28 - The mental health impact of isolation and quarantine
04:22 - Anxiety from staying too informed about the news
05:48 - Practicing “media distancing” and a breaking news diet
07:26 - Why endless breaking news feels like a seatbelt alarm
08:36 - Coping with uncertainty and constant change
09:26 - Giving yourself time to adjust to the new normal
10:20 - Building flexible and sustainable daily routines
11:28 - Finding balance between togetherness and alone time
12:05 - Exercise, sunshine, and outdoor time for stress relief
12:45 - Parenting during the pandemic and following kids’ leads
13:34 - Continuing conversation with Dr. Sands next week
14:21 - Final reflections and community support

Mental Health During COVID-19: Coping with Anxiety, Uncertainty, and Symptoms Mar 30, 2020

Show notes

When Pablo Muirhead and his family of four tested positive for COVID-19, the diagnosis brought not only physical symptoms but also waves of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. In this candid conversation, Pablo shares what it’s really like to live through coronavirus as a family — from the shock of the test results to the emotional toll of quarantine.

Despite having underlying health conditions and mild depression and anxiety, Pablo and his family’s experience highlights an often-overlooked truth: for many, COVID-19 is not a death sentence. Most cases are mild — but the mental health impact of fear, stigma, and isolation can be profound.

This episode offers a reassuring, real-world perspective on coping with illness during a pandemic, staying hopeful, and protecting both mental and physical health while in quarantine.

Link to Pablo's YouTube posts: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL7WvvjxyQGq6BYrrR8rqnDAZvI9AqOjMN

Primary Topics Covered:

A family’s firsthand experience of testing positive for COVID-19
Mild symptoms vs. worst-case fears: finding perspective
Coping with anxiety, depression, and uncertainty during illness
Quarantine as a family: balancing health, parenting, and connection
The role of stigma and why going public was liberating
How fear and misinformation can amplify anxiety
Why maintaining hope and kindness supports the immune system
Lessons for treating ourselves — and others — with compassion during crisis

Timestamps:

00:00 – Intro: mental health focus during the pandemic
01:18 – Meet Pablo: family of four tests positive for COVID-19
02:35 – First symptoms: chills, headache, mild fever
03:44 – Testing experience: negative flu, then COVID-19 confirmation
04:35 – Family reaction: tears, fear, and uncertainty
05:46 – Coping with anxiety and depression during illness
06:32 – Mild symptoms and quick recovery: a reassuring reality
07:55 – Family members’ experiences: loss of taste, sniffles, mild asthma
09:34 – Quarantine at home: masks, distancing, and adjusting routines
10:27 – Anxiety about exposure and stigma before going public
11:24 – Going public: social media video and community response
12:12 – The mental toll of uncertainty and fear-driven thinking
13:21 – Immune system and mental health: why hope matters
14:38 – Parenting challenges during quarantine: screen time, routines
15:19 – Perspective: most people will experience mild or no symptoms
16:23 – Silver linings: slowing down and finding opportunities in change
17:24 – Staying connected while physically distant
18:17 – Closing reflections: compassion, resilience, and hope

Free Online Mental Health Tools for Managing Depression and Anxiety During the Pandemic Mar 23, 2020

Show notes

The COVID-19 pandemic has tested not only our physical health but also our mental resilience. In this episode, we sit down with Paul Gionfriddo, President and CEO of Mental Health America (MHA), to explore the best mental health resources available during these uncertain times.

Paul shares free and reliable online screening tools, expert-curated resources, and simple but effective self-care practices to manage stress, anxiety, and depression. From reducing isolation with technology to finding trustworthy sources of information, this conversation provides a roadmap for maintaining mental wellness through crisis.

Whether you’re struggling personally or looking to support loved ones, this episode offers actionable tools to help you stay connected, informed, and hopeful.

Link to MHA Free Online Mental Health Screening Tools: https://screening.mhanational.org/screening-tools/

Primary Topics Covered:

Why the pandemic impacts mental health as much as physical health
Practical ways to manage stress and anxiety at home
How to use MHA’s free online screening tools for depression and anxiety
The importance of reducing isolation and checking in with others
Trusted sources for accurate and supportive mental health information
Affordable and free mental health support options for the uninsured
Self-care strategies for building resilience in uncertain times

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction and context of the pandemic’s impact on mental health
00:33 – Launching a season focused on protecting mental health
00:58 – Guest introduction: Paul Gionfriddo of Mental Health America
02:48 – Why COVID-19 is a mental health crisis as well as a physical one
03:34 – The dangers of isolation and how to counter it
04:04 – Why phone and video check-ins matter more than ever
04:48 – Balancing accurate information with comfort and hope
07:06 – How MHA curates reliable mental health resources
07:37 – Free anxiety and depression screening tools explained
10:12 – The rise of telehealth and relaxed counseling access rules
11:10 – Mental health support for the uninsured
12:11 – Small, consistent self-care practices to manage stress
14:13 – Personal routines and hobbies as protective factors
15:12 – Why resilience is built in times of struggle
16:07 – Closing reminders: you are not alone + links to MHA resources

Explaining Depression and Anxiety to Children: What Parents Need to Know Mar 16, 2020

Show notes

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, guest T.J. shares his deeply personal journey of living with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD—and how he found the courage to talk openly with his young son about it.

Far too many parents delay or avoid these conversations, leaving children confused, worried, or misinformed. T.J.’s story offers an honest example of why talking early matters, how to explain mental illness without overwhelming kids, and how openness can build trust and resilience.

Whether you are a parent, grandparent, or caregiver, this conversation provides practical tools and emotional encouragement for discussing mental health with children in ways that reduce stigma, strengthen relationships, and foster hope.

Link to WebMD article on the signs of depression in children:

https://www.webmd.com/depression/qa/what-are-signs-and-symptoms-of-depression-in-children

Primary Topics Covered:

Why children notice changes in parents’ mental health even when adults think they don’t
The importance of naming and validating depression in family conversations
Practical tips for explaining depression and anxiety to children without frightening them
How honesty about mental illness can break stigma for the next generation
Why ongoing conversations—not one-time talks—are essential
The role of love, listening, and non-judgment in helping kids feel safe to share

Timestamps:

00:01 - Why mental health conversations with children matter
00:02 - What experts say about childhood depression
00:03 - Meet T.J. and his story of living with depression and PTSD
00:05 - Struggles with medication, relapse, and suicide attempts
00:07 - The moment T.J. realized his son noticed his depression
00:09 - Turning pain into motivation for an honest conversation
00:11 - Explaining depression to children in age-appropriate ways
00:13 - Why ongoing conversations matter more than one-time talks
00:14 - Encouraging children to express feelings without shame
00:15 - Breaking stigma by starting early and leading by example
00:17 - Final reflections: preparing kids for a healthier future

Coping with Depression and Anxiety: Mental Health Stories of Hope and Healing Mar 10, 2020

Show notes

How do you cope with depression and anxiety — and how do you support loved ones who are struggling?

Season 12 of Giving Voice to Depression explored powerful personal stories and expert insights on living with depression, preventing relapse, and breaking the silence around suicide. In this recap episode, Bridget and Terry revisit highlights from the season, offering both hope and practical tools for recovery.

You’ll hear from:

Savannah Wall on feeling homesick for the person she was before depression
Lori on how pets can help with depression by providing routine, exercise, and unconditional love
Gary on confronting the stigma he once carried, and learning depression is not a choice
Douglas Bloch on preventing depression relapse and spotting early warning signs
Deb Sherwood on the cost of secrecy after her husband’s suicide — and why words matter
Researchers on how the language of depression reveals hidden warning signs
Becky Stoll on the risks after psychiatric hospitalization and the urgent need for better care

This season is filled with wisdom, honesty, and courage — reminding us that while depression and suicide are complex, healing and connection are always possible.

Primary Topics Covered:

What it feels like to lose yourself in depression
The role of pets in coping with depression and anxiety
Confronting the stigma: learning depression is real, not a choice
Strategies for preventing depression relapse
Why secrecy around suicide fuels shame
How words shape our understanding of depression and suicide
The heightened suicide risks after psychiatric hospitalization
Best practices for suicide prevention and post-discharge care

Timestamps:

00:00 Welcome to Season 12 in Review
01:20 Episode 126 recap — When depression makes you homesick for yourself (Savannah Wall)
02:57 Episode 127 recap — How pets help with depression (Lori)
04:39 Episode 128 recap — From stigma to understanding: a father’s journey (Gary)
06:25 Episode 129 recap — Preventing depression relapse with Douglas Bloch
07:40 Episode 130 recap — Keeping a suicide a secret (Deb Sherwood)
08:57 Episode 131 recap — Words matter when discussing suicide (Deb Sherwood)
10:31 Episode 132 recap — The language of depression and what words reveal
12:00 Episode 133 recap — Post-hospitalization suicide risks (Becky Stoll)
13:43 Episode 134 recap — When we know better, we must do better (suicide prevention practices)
15:10 Reflections on Season 12’s lessons
16:48 Closing thoughts and invitation to the Giving Voice to Depression community

Keeping Patients Safe After Psychiatric Hospitalization: Best Practices for Suicide Prevention Mar 02, 2020

Show notes

The weeks immediately following psychiatric hospitalization are some of the most dangerous for suicide risk — yet many patients and families leave without knowing this reality.

In this episode, Becky Stoll, Vice President of Crisis & Disaster Management at Centerstone, shares best practices for bridging the gap between inpatient and outpatient care. She explains how families, providers, and support networks can help keep loved ones safe, reduce stigma, and build a framework of ongoing support.

From safety planning at home to making sure the “baton is passed” between hospital and community care, this conversation sheds light on what truly saves lives during this vulnerable transition period.

If you or someone you love is facing a recent discharge from psychiatric care, this episode offers practical strategies, hope, and lifesaving tools for suicide prevention.

Link to article: https://time.com/5709368/how-to-solve-suicide/

Link to resource mentioned: https://www.dropbox.com/s/40c9se12z4dorv2/AA-Best%20Practices%20v9.pdf?dl=1

Primary Topics Covered:

Why suicide risk spikes after psychiatric hospitalization
Statistics: 300x higher risk in the first week, 200x higher in the first month
Why patients often fall into a “care gap” between inpatient and outpatient treatment
The importance of suicide risk screenings and continuous monitoring
Best practices for “passing the baton” from hospital to community care
Examples of systems that keep patients connected and safe
The role of families: reducing access to lethal means, monitoring, and support
The value of peer specialists and school counselors in care coordination
Why follow-up appointments and reminders are essential for recovery
The long-term goal: not just survival, but helping people build meaningful lives

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to post-hospitalization suicide risk
01:16 – Why the weeks after discharge are uniquely dangerous
02:10 – National Action Alliance data: suicide rates 300x higher in first week
03:25 – The “care gap”: who is responsible after discharge?
05:25 – Examples of safe discharge systems (Houston, Centerstone)
07:11 – Importance of thorough suicide risk screenings
08:25 – Creating a “safety grid” like air traffic control for patients
09:42 – How missed appointments trigger safety checks
11:04 – Real story: preventing a suicide attempt through outreach
13:23 – Raising the bar across systems of care nationwide
15:32 – Goal: not just survival, but purposeful, meaningful lives
16:19 – Role of families: safety planning, removing lethal means
17:38 – Connecting patients with peer support and schools
18:46 – Recap and call to action: we must do better

Suicide Prevention Strategies: The Critical Weeks After Inpatient Mental Health Treatment Feb 24, 2020

Show notes

The weeks immediately following discharge from a psychiatric hospital are among the most dangerous periods for suicide risk—a reality too few people are aware of. In this episode, we speak with Becky Stoll, VP of Crisis and Disaster Management at Centerstone, about the staggering statistics, why this window is so fragile, and how patients, families, and the healthcare system can do better.

Becky explains why suicide prevention must be treated as its own priority, separate from depression and other mental health diagnoses. She also shares practical steps families and clinicians can take to bridge the gaps in care, stay vigilant, and save lives.

This candid discussion challenges assumptions about hospitalization, sheds light on systemic shortcomings, and emphasizes that true recovery requires both treatment and continued connection.

Link to article: https://time.com/5709368/how-to-solve-suicide/

Primary Topics Covered:

Why suicide risk skyrockets after psychiatric hospitalization
The “Swiss cheese” problem in the transition from inpatient to outpatient care
Why hospitalization is more about safety than “fixing” mental illness
How lack of clinician training impacts suicide prevention
The evolving view of suicide as its own diagnosable condition
Practical advice for families to support loved ones post-discharge
The role of connection, follow-up, and intentional care transitions

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to the episode and today’s focus
01:17 - Why statistics about suicide risk after hospitalization matter
02:16 - The shocking numbers: 300x higher risk in the first week
03:06 - Guest introduction: Becky Stoll from Centerstone
03:42 - Why post-hospitalization is such a fragile time
04:17 - Are families warned about this heightened risk?
05:35 - The stigma of not “getting fixed” after treatment
07:39 - Why discharge appointments often fail patients
08:45 - The “Swiss cheese” of inpatient-to-outpatient care
09:42 - Why hospitalization is about safety, not a cure
10:33 - Lack of suicide prevention training in clinicians
11:39 - Suicide prevention as an evolving field
13:26 - Why suicide must be treated as its own condition
14:10 - Prioritizing suicide prevention above all else
15:28 - How the field is slowly learning and growing
16:09 - Systemic gaps and the urgent need for change
17:03 - Why it feels “perverse” not to prioritize suicide care
18:07 - Key takeaways for families and the importance of vigilance
18:42 - Closing thoughts and resources for listeners

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