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

Latest Episodes:

Signs of Depression in the Words We Use: How Language Reveals Mental Health Struggles Feb 17, 2020

Show notes

Sometimes depression doesn’t show up in dramatic ways — it shows up in the words we use every day. Research reveals that our language patterns can signal not only depression, but also suicidal thinking.

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Bridget and Terry explore what’s been called the language of depression — from the subtle signs of absolutist thinking (“always,” “never,” “completely”) to the surprising keywords flagged by Crisis Text Line in their analysis of millions of texts from people in distress.

Listeners will learn how to recognize warning signs in their own language and in the speech of loved ones, why certain words signal higher risk of suicidal thoughts, and how shifting our thinking patterns can open a path toward healing.

This episode blends data, psychology, and compassion to remind us of one important truth: words matter — and noticing them can 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:

How depression can be detected in language patterns
Crisis Text Line’s keyword analysis of high-risk texters
Surprising words and emojis linked to suicidal ideation
Dr. Mohammed Al-Masawi’s research on absolutist thinking
The impact of words like “always,” “never,” and “completely”
How rigid language signals distress and depression severity
The difference between negative thoughts and thinking styles
How therapists and loved ones can challenge harmful word patterns
Why noticing language is a tool for suicide prevention
Practical ways to shift from rigid, absolutist thinking to healthier perspectives

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction: Why words matter in depression
01:00 – Crisis Text Line’s research on suicide-related keywords
02:21 – Surprising signals: “800 mg” and the pill emoji
03:26 – Introducing Dr. Mohammed Al-Masawi and his research
04:08 – Understanding absolutist thinking in depression
05:33 – Key words: “always,” “never,” “completely” as red flags
06:33 – How rigid language patterns reveal mental health struggles
07:05 – Spotting absolutist thinking in everyday speech
07:53 – Practical strategies to challenge harmful word patterns
08:38 – Why changing thinking style requires time and support
09:59 – The role of loved ones and therapists in noticing language
11:45 – Absolutist thoughts across anxiety, depression, and self-harm
12:32 – Using data and technology to detect suicide risk
13:23 – Bridget’s reflection: catching her own word choices
14:37 – Key takeaway: noticing words can save lives
15:17 – Closing reflections and hope

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/

Supporting Suicide Loss Survivors: What to Say (and Not Say) After a Tragedy Feb 10, 2020

Show notes

When someone dies by suicide, words can either bring comfort or cause more pain. In this episode, journalist and suicide loss survivor Deb Sherwood shares the insensitive, stigmatizing comments she received after her husband’s death — and the powerful lessons she learned about the importance of language.

From doctors asking hurtful questions to friends making judgmental remarks, Deb reveals how even well-meaning words can deepen grief. Together, we explore how to talk about suicide with compassion, what not to say, and how small acts of kindness can make all the difference for suicide loss survivors.

If you’ve ever struggled with what to say after a suicide, or if you want to better support someone grieving such a loss, this conversation offers practical, empathetic guidance.

Link to article on recommended things to say after a suicide: https://www.self.com/story/help-friend-suicide-loss-survivor

Primary Topics Covered:

Why words matter after a suicide loss
Examples of comments that cause harm, even when unintentional
The role of stigma and taboo in how people respond
Helpful vs. harmful language in suicide prevention
How medical and mental health professionals can better support survivors
Why asking “how could you not have seen it coming?” retraumatizes survivors
Practical alternatives: offering specific help instead of vague support
The healing power of memory-sharing and support groups
Why it’s okay to leave a therapist who doesn’t respect your grief

Timestamps:

00:00 – Intro: Giving Voice to Depression’s mission
01:18 – Deb Sherwood shares her husband’s suicide and the secrecy that followed
02:08 – Why stigma shaped the advice she was given after his death
03:17 – “Words matter”: harmful language from professionals and friends
04:32 – Insensitive medical advice and its lasting impact
06:01 – The retraumatizing effect of intrusive questions in therapy
07:19 – How others misread her strength as lack of pain
08:53 – Curiosity vs. empathy: knowing when not to ask questions
09:32 – The loss of friendships due to stigmatizing comments
10:22 – Examples of statements that added to her trauma
11:23 – What actually helps: “sorry for your loss” and offering specific help
12:03 – Creating memory booklets and sharing stories of the deceased
13:41 – Why memories matter more than assumptions
14:22 – Grieving questions survivors will never be able to answer
15:22 – A tool for kindness: Is it true? Is it necessary? Is it kind?
16:06 – Why suicide support groups offer unique healing and understanding
17:02 – Choosing therapists and supports that respect your grief
17:24 – Closing thoughts on compassion and language

Coping with Suicide Loss: One Widow’s Story of Guilt, Silence, and Recovery Feb 03, 2020

Show notes

What happens when suicide loss is kept a secret?

In this deeply moving episode, Deb Sherwood shares her journey after her husband’s suicide — a story marked by shock, stigma, guilt, and ultimately, the hard decision to break the silence.

Deb opens up about the unique challenges of coping with suicide loss:

The trauma of discovering her husband’s death
Why guilt is such a common burden for suicide loss survivors
How stigma and secrecy delayed her healing for more than a year
Why speaking openly about suicide became the key to recovery

Her story is a reminder that while grief after suicide is uniquely complex, no one should have to carry it in silence.

If you or someone you love is struggling after suicide loss, this conversation offers compassion, understanding, and hope.

Link to Harvard article: https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/left-behind-after-suicide

Link to Speaking of Suicide blog: https://www.speakingofsuicide.com/2013/06/30/keeping-suicide-secret/?subscribe=success#blog_subscription-2

Primary Topics Covered:

Why suicide loss grief is different from other types of grief
The trauma of discovering a loved one’s suicide
Survivor guilt and the impact of last conversations
How stigma and secrecy around suicide prevent healing
The personal cost of keeping a suicide hidden
Why honesty and openness are essential in healing after suicide
The role of support groups and therapy in recovery
What to say (and not say) to suicide loss survivors

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction — Suicide loss as uniquely traumatic grief
01:20 Harvard Medical School insights on suicide loss
02:25 Stigma, shame, and secrecy after suicide
03:09 Deb shares her love story and her husband’s illness
04:40 The exhaustion of caregiving and words she regrets
06:40 Discovering her husband’s death by suicide
08:00 Police investigation and immediate guilt
10:00 Deciding whether to tell the truth about the cause of death
11:30 Pressure to keep the suicide a secret
12:45 The personal cost of secrecy: isolation and delayed healing
14:59 Ongoing guilt and survivor’s burden
15:46 Why Deb chose to share her story publicly
16:36 Talking about suicide as a pathway to healing and prevention
17:40 Closing reflections on stigma, language, and support

How to Deal with Depression Relapse: Triggers, Warning Signs, and Prevention Strategies Jan 27, 2020

Show notes

What are the warning signs of a depression relapse — and how can you stop it before it gets worse?

In this episode, author and mental health educator Douglas Bloch shares his lived experience with recurrent depression and his insights on preventing relapse. He explains how depression rarely crashes in overnight; instead, it builds through subtle changes in sleep, thoughts, and daily habits.

You’ll learn how to identify your personal triggers, track your mood with a daily diary, and use self-care strategies like sleep hygiene, exercise, and social support to stay balanced. Douglas also shares how to face relapse without shame, using compassion and the mindset of “response-able” — being able to respond instead of blaming yourself.

If you’ve ever wondered how to deal with depression relapse, this conversation offers tools, hope, and validation.

Link to Douglas's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/healingdepression

Primary Topics Covered:

Why depression relapse is common and not a personal failure
The three stages of relapse: early warning signs, crisis, and breakdown
Common relapse triggers: stress, loss, trauma, and poor sleep
How insomnia often signals the start of a relapse
The importance of daily mood tracking as an early detection tool
Practical self-care strategies to stabilize mood
Why denial can delay seeking help — and how to break that cycle
How to accept relapse without shame or self-blame
“Response-able” living: responding with tools, not fear

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro — Depression is not a one-time illness
01:20 Guest introduction: Author Douglas Bloch
02:10 Why depression relapse is more common than many realize
03:05 Relapse as part of recovery — lessons from addiction treatment
04:10 Living in depression’s shadow without living in fear
05:00 Early warning signs: subtle shifts in mood, thoughts, and sleep
05:40 Why poor sleep is often the canary in the coal mine
06:20 The value of a daily mood diary to track patterns
07:30 Self-care strategies to stabilize mood (exercise, support, connection)
08:44 Stage 2: crisis and denial when symptoms worsen
09:50 Stage 3: breakdown and the despair of believing it’s “forever”
11:20 Why not to trust your depressed brain’s narrative
12:18 Practicing self-compassion during relapse
13:10 Balancing prevention with living fully in recovery
14:20 Real-life example: relapse prevention strategies that work
15:45 Response-able, not blame: how to move forward with hope
16:50 Closing reflections and resources

Is Depression Real? A Father’s Journey from Doubt to Understanding Mental Illness Jan 20, 2020

Show notes

Is depression real — or just a choice?

That’s what Gary believed — until his teenage daughter’s severe illness shattered that misconception. What he once dismissed as “negativity” quickly became the fight of his life as he watched his child struggle with debilitating depression, hospitalization, and survival.

In this candid episode, Gary shares his transformation: from disbelief and stigma to a deep understanding of depression as a real, life-threatening illness. He also reflects on how the experience changed the way he now supports others, urging people to look for the warning signs, ask questions, and believe those who are suffering.

If you’ve ever struggled with family members or friends who don’t understand depression — or if you’ve questioned it yourself — this story offers compassion, clarity, and hope.

Primary Topics Covered:

Why many people wrongly believe depression is a choice
How stigma and lack of awareness delay support
A father’s journey from denial to acceptance through his daughter’s crisis
The shock of psychiatric hospitalization and learning the severity of depression
The role of therapy and medication in saving lives
Why understanding depression as an illness is crucial for support
How personal experience can transform stigma into empathy
What to say — and not say — to someone who doubts depression is real

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro — Setting the stage: “depression isn’t a casserole illness”
01:10 Guest Gary shares his early belief that depression wasn’t real
02:30 Why he thought people could “just be positive”
03:15 Equating depression only with suicide and misunderstanding the illness
04:20 When everything changed: his daughter’s crisis and urgent intervention
05:45 The shock of psychiatric hospitalization
07:45 The fear and helplessness of leaving her in treatment
09:20 Learning depression is genetic and life-threatening
10:50 How therapy and medication helped his daughter survive
12:20 Today: his daughter’s recovery and thriving life
12:40 How his perception of depression changed forever
13:15 Advice to those who doubt depression: “It is real — believe it.”
15:00 Closing reflections: why sharing stories reduces stigma

Dogs and Depression: How Pets Provide Comfort, Structure, and Healing Jan 13, 2020

Show notes

Can pets really help us survive depression? In this episode, Lori shares her moving story of how her dogs gave her the structure, love, and grounding she needed to make it through family struggles, divorce, and deep depression.

She explains how walking her dogs gave her purpose, how their unconditional loyalty kept her going when she wanted to give up, and why their companionship brought peace in her most painful moments.

Along with Terry and Bridget, Lori explores the unique ways pets act as lifelines—whether through daily routines, calming presence, or simple, unconditional love. This conversation is for anyone who has ever felt saved by an animal’s companionship—or wondered if pets can really make a difference in mental health.

Primary Topics Covered:

How dogs provide grounding and structure during depression
Lori’s family history of depression and silence around mental health
Surviving divorce with the help of loyal canine companions
The healing role of therapy dogs and rescue animals
How walking pets creates purpose and accountability
The calming presence of pets in chaotic times
Distraction and redirection: focusing on pets instead of pain
Ways to experience pet companionship even if you can’t own one

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction and episode overview
01:13 - Why dogs can be powerful allies in mental health
01:35 - Meet Lori: lifelong dog lover and advocate
02:10 - Family history of depression and silence around mental illness
03:42 - Lori’s struggles and painful divorce
04:33 - How her dogs kept her alive during her darkest year
05:09 - The healing role of her rescue poodles
06:07 - Loyalty, protection, and companionship in hard times
06:20 - How walking dogs provided structure and purpose
07:17 - Dogs as a lifeline during chaos and depression
08:06 - Walking and crying: the release of grief with dogs by her side
09:04 - Distraction and focusing on pets instead of depression
09:56 - How medication and dogs together built a safety net
11:22 - The calming presence of pets and the peace they bring
13:12 - The role of human connection alongside pets
14:10 - Daily check-ins and accountability with a best friend
15:47 - Advice: rescue, foster, volunteer, or pet-sit if you can’t own a pet
16:29 - Closing reflections and resources

What Does Depression Feel Like? Savannah’s Story of Emptiness, Healing, and Hope Jan 06, 2020

Show notes

What does depression really feel like?

In this powerful conversation, Savannah describes her experience of depression as feeling homesick for her former self — disconnected from her joy, her loved ones, and even her own identity. She opens up about the crushing physical heaviness, the emptiness that no candle or self-care ritual could fix, and the shame that made her hide her struggles behind excuses.

With honesty and courage, Savannah shares how her husband’s support, therapy, and medical treatment helped her begin to heal. Her story is a vivid answer to the question so many ask: what does depression feel like — and how do you find hope again?

Link to full article that prompted the episode: https://savannahwall.wordpress.com/2018/12/22/when-youre-homesick-for-all-that-you-were-before-depression/

Primary Topics Covered:

The unique way Savannah describes depression: feeling “homesick” for herself
The physical weight of depression and why it feels both empty and heavy
Why surface-level fixes (candles, baths, food) can’t touch clinical depression
The shame and excuses that make people hide their struggles
How depression feels like waiting for something that never comes
The turning point: self-harm, her husband’s intervention, and getting help
Counseling, medication, and faith as tools for healing
Why holding it in has serious consequences — and the importance of speaking up
The role of loved ones in noticing and supporting recovery

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro and framing: “homesick” as a metaphor for depression
01:26 Savannah describes feeling far from herself and her loved ones
03:00 Depression’s weight: heavy yet empty, like “bricks on your chest”
04:33 Why self-care trends didn’t work in her darkest days
05:40 The shame of hiding depression behind excuses
07:10 Gratitude vs. depression: why being thankful doesn’t fix the emptiness
08:32 Feeling disconnected: “like a string cut from everyone I love”
09:19 Turning point — self-harm and her husband urging her to seek help
10:17 How treatment slowly helped her feel lighter and hopeful again
11:37 Recognizing depression’s warning signs vs. brushing off bad days
12:42 Building a “toolkit” for recovery and resilience
13:31 Writing reminders to your future self during well periods
14:47 The danger of holding it all in and the importance of opening up
16:15 Why depression convinces us it will last forever — and why that’s a lie
17:21 The power of a loved one saying, “I’ll be with you every step of the way”
18:20 Closing reflections and reminder: speak up, listen up

Teen Depression and Anxiety: What I Wish I Knew About Mental Health as a Teenager Dec 30, 2019

Show notes

Growing up with depression and anxiety can feel overwhelming and isolating — especially when you don’t yet understand what’s happening to you. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Charlotte Underwood reflects on her teenage years living with undiagnosed mental illness.

Charlotte shares the struggles she faced as a teen — from feeling alone in her depression to hiding self-harm from loved ones — and the lessons she wishes she had known. Now in her 20s, she speaks openly about resilience, recovery, and the importance of asking for support.

Her story offers both validation and hope for struggling teens, as well as valuable insights for parents, educators, and anyone supporting a young person with mental health challenges.

Primary Topics Covered:

Charlotte’s early experiences with depression and anxiety as a teenager
Why depression convinces you things will never improve
The hidden struggles of teens living with mental illness
How love, therapy, and support can change the future
The importance of resilience and discovering inner strength
Why openness about depression reduces stigma and isolation
Charlotte’s message of encouragement for teens today

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction and podcast mission
01:11 - Why depression lies about permanence
01:36 - Discovering Charlotte’s gratitude post
02:49 - Charlotte’s struggles as a teenager
03:57 - How she saw her future at 14
04:52 - Building a life she never imagined possible
05:41 - A joyful night that sparked her message of hope
07:10 - What she wishes she knew about depression as a teen
07:56 - Realizing resilience and inner strength
08:53 - How support from family and friends can help
10:15 - Hiding depression and self-harm from loved ones
11:02 - Why she feared rejection if she opened up
12:08 - Learning that help and support do exist
13:14 - Treatment options and what worked differently
13:50 - Hope for a future filled with joy and purpose
14:20 - Charlotte’s direct encouragement to struggling teens
16:09 - Hosts reflect on Charlotte’s resilience
17:47 - Keeping the spark of hope alive
19:00 - Closing thoughts and inspiration

Coping With Depression at Christmas: How to Survive the Holidays With Grief and Anxiety Dec 24, 2019

Show notes

The holiday season is often portrayed as joyful and bright—but for many, it’s one of the hardest times of the year. Depression, grief, loneliness, and anxiety can feel heavier at Christmas, making it difficult to “get through” the celebrations.

In this special holiday episode, written and read by John Pavlovitz, we speak directly to anyone who feels unseen during the holidays. Whether you’re grieving a loss, living with depression, battling addiction, or struggling with isolation, these words offer hope, compassion, and a reminder: you are not alone—and this is not the end of your story.

If you’re searching for ways to survive Christmas while living with depression, this episode is here to offer solidarity and strength.

Primary Topics Covered:

Why depression and anxiety often worsen during the holidays
The hidden grief and loneliness behind holiday celebrations
Struggles with addiction, self-hatred, and hopelessness at Christmas
Messages of solidarity for those who feel alone
How grief reshapes the meaning of the holidays
Finding comfort in knowing others share the same struggle
Hope that today’s pain is temporary and healing is possible

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to this special holiday reflection
00:42 - John Pavlovitz begins reading his Christmas message
01:20 - For those grieving losses or broken relationships
02:15 - For those living with depression, anxiety, or mental illness
03:00 - For those battling addiction or self-hatred
03:45 - For those feeling isolated or forgotten at Christmas
04:30 - Reminder: you are not suffering alone
05:00 - This is not the end of your story—hope will return
05:35 - Closing encouragement and holiday reflections

Mental Health Awareness and Coping with Depression: How Speaking Up About Depression Can Save Lives Dec 20, 2019

Show notes

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Dan shares his deeply personal journey of coping with depression and anxiety—after years of hiding his struggles from even those closest to him. When depression brought him to a crisis point, hospitalization and support became lifelines that allowed him to survive and begin healing.

Dan reflects on how stigma and shame kept him silent for decades, and why he now speaks openly about mental health in hopes of encouraging others to do the same. Through his story, three themes emerge as powerful “gifts” for recovery: gratitude, connection, and hope.

If you’ve ever felt alone in your struggles, or hesitant to share your truth, this conversation reminds us that connection can be life-saving—and that speaking up about depression helps break stigma and build stronger communities.

Primary Topics Covered:

How stigma and shame keep people silent about depression
The role of hospitalization and medical support in crisis recovery
Why gratitude and connection are key in healing
How depression affects families across generations
The importance of honest conversations with children and loved ones
The power of sharing personal mental health stories to reduce stigma
Finding hope through openness and community support

Timestamps:

00:08 – Introduction to the episode
01:26 – The three gifts: gratitude, connection, and hope
02:42 – Meet Dan and his story of hidden depression
04:20 – Avoiding conversations about mental health
05:01 – Hospitalization and confronting suicidal ideation
06:16 – Finding the courage to speak publicly about depression
07:57 – How shame and stigma fuel silence
09:28 – The relief and power of talking openly
10:40 – The impact of depression on family and loved ones
11:45 – Conversations with his son and breaking generational silence
12:36 – Realizing depression doesn’t discriminate
13:46 – The role of self-talk and negative thought cycles
14:15 – Small but important steps toward change
15:25 – Why sharing stories reduces stigma and brings hope
16:36 – Closing reflections on courage and hope for the new year

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