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

Latest Episodes:

Childhood Depression: Symptoms and Warning Signs Parents Can’t Ignore Jan 16, 2018

Show notes

Childhood depression is often misunderstood — dismissed as moodiness, shyness, or just a “phase.” But the symptoms of depression in children are real, and if ignored, they can have lifelong consequences.

In this powerful episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Sally shares her personal story of living with depression from the age of ten, when her pain went unnoticed by those around her. From losing a supportive grandmother to writing poetry that reflected her despair, Sally’s story reveals how early warning signs of depression in children can be overlooked — and why awareness matters.

This episode explores what childhood depression looks like, how stigma silences families, and what parents, teachers, and mentors can do to recognize the symptoms early. It’s a reminder that noticing the signs and offering support can change — and even save — a child’s life.

Link to symptoms: https://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/depression-children#1

Link to Netflix documentary: https://www.netflix.com/title/80196138

Primary Topics Covered

Why childhood depression is often misinterpreted or ignored
Sally’s personal story of depression beginning at age ten
Early symptoms of depression in children, including sleep changes and sadness
The impact of losing her grandmother and lack of family support
Poetry and writing as early expressions of depression
Teachers noticing warning signs but parents dismissing them
The silence and stigma that prevented early intervention
Diagnosis and first medication at age 21
Building resilience and managing depression as an adult
Advice for parents, teachers, and mentors on recognizing symptoms
How early recognition and intervention can prevent lifelong struggles

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction
01:00 – Why childhood depression is often misunderstood
01:20 – Sally reflects on her 10- and 13-year-old self
02:17 – Early symptoms: sadness, excessive sleeping, feeling “different”
03:26 – Losing her grandmother and the absence of guidance
04:12 – Writing poetry as an outlet for unrecognized depression
05:09 – Teacher notices dark writing, but family ignores signs
06:08 – Rediscovering letters that showed depression at age 10
07:30 – What her grandmother might have done differently
08:42 – Receiving a diagnosis and medication at age 21
09:32 – Experiencing happiness for the first time in decades
10:06 – The reality of managing depression long-term
11:35 – Building a successful career while living with depression
12:30 – Describing “the pit” of depression
13:44 – Sally’s ongoing work supporting *Giving Voice to Depression*
14:29 – Why internet resources could have changed her childhood
14:44 – The importance of ending stigma and recognizing symptoms early
15:39 – How early support could have altered her life’s trajectory
17:16 – Closing reflections and thanks

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/

Depression and Laughter: How Comedian Frank King Uses Humor to Spark Suicide Prevention Conversations Jan 09, 2018

Show notes

Comedian Frank King has made a career out of laughter—but behind the humor lies his lived experience with depression, suicidal thoughts, and loss within his family. In this conversation, Frank opens up about the ways comedy can be a tool for breaking stigma, starting conversations about mental health, and offering hope to those who feel hopeless.

With honesty and humor, he shares his personal story, including near-suicidal moments, the role of antidepressants in his recovery, and why he believes laughter and openness can save lives. This episode is both candid and compassionate, reminding us that talking about depression isn’t weakness—it’s survival.

Primary Topics Covered:

How comedy and humor can create safe entry points for mental health conversations
Frank King’s personal experience with depression, family history of suicide, and near-loss
The role of antidepressants and therapy in managing mental health
Why sharing personal stories reduces stigma and helps others feel less alone
Suicide prevention as a public health crisis—and why silence is dangerous
How to find hope and healing through openness, community, and humor

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introducing Giving Voice to Depression and today’s guest
01:35 – Why comedy and depression intersect more than we think
02:12 – Frank King’s background as a comedian and mental health advocate
03:12 – Family history of depression and suicide
04:26 – Near-suicide, life insurance, and what stopped him
04:56 – Why talking about depression matters
06:19 – The “fellow traveler” effect: why peer voices are powerful
07:09 – Stigma, silence, and the epidemic of suicide
09:09 – The healing power of sharing your story
10:24 – How comedy can be both coping strategy and connection tool
12:02 – Antidepressants, medication stigma, and finding balance
13:17 – Recognizing when treatment helps: “I like my life again”
13:42 – Why there’s no shame in medication, therapy, or self-care
14:25 – Small daily victories and the struggle of getting out of bed
16:32 – The importance of trusted support, community, and connection

How to Support Someone with Depression Without Judgment: The Power of Listening Jan 02, 2018

Show notes

Listening is often underestimated, yet it’s one of the most powerful tools we have to support someone struggling with depression. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we speak with Robert — a trained listener, retired teacher, and crisis hotline supervisor — who shares what it really means to listen without judgment.

Robert explains why listening is not only a gift but also a vital act of compassion that can provide hope and connection to those who feel isolated. He discusses how his personal experiences with depression and his years of helping others have shaped his perspective, and why empathy, patience, and presence matter more than quick fixes or advice.

If you’ve ever wondered how to truly be there for someone with depression, this episode offers insights, encouragement, and practical takeaways you can use right now.

Primary Topics Covered:

Why listening is one of the greatest gifts you can give someone with depression
How lived experience deepens empathy and connection
The difference between helpful listening and unhelpful advice
Setting healthy boundaries while offering support
How stories and lived experiences reduce stigma and build community
Why hope is essential — and how listening helps restore it

Timestamps:

00:10 – Introduction and purpose of the podcast
01:00 – The importance of listening in mental health conversations
02:02 – Robert shares his lived experience with depression
02:25 – Why depression can be seen as a “lifelong companion”
03:30 – Finding meaning in mental illness and personal growth
04:40 – The value of empathy and shared perspective
04:51 – How to support friends and family: listening over advice
05:57 – Recognizing and avoiding harmful “just snap out of it” advice
06:47 – The art of reflective listening and gentle questioning
07:23 – Setting boundaries when supporting someone in crisis
08:07 – Why hope is essential for recovery
09:38 – Remembering the darkness even in moments of light
10:16 – Public sharing, lived stories, and reducing stigma
12:19 – Hearing stories as a pathway to hope and recovery
12:45 – Reducing stigma and building mental health support systems
13:32 – Listening and sharing: two sides of the same coin
14:12 – Practical tips for matching tone and intensity in listening
14:58 – Depression as a blanket that smothers hope — and finding light again
15:38 – Closing reflections and encouragement

Holiday Depression and Grief: Coping with Expectations, Stress, and Loneliness Dec 19, 2017

Show notes

The holidays are painted as a season of joy, but for many living with depression or grief, they can feel overwhelming, isolating, and exhausting. In this episode, we explore how unrealistic expectations, social pressure, and loss can intensify depression at Christmas. With the help of psychologist Dr. Anita Sanz, we reframe holiday struggles through an unexpected lens—Ebenezer Scrooge.

Dr. Sands reminds us that what looks like irritability, withdrawal, or “coldness” may actually be grief or depression, and that offering compassion—rather than judgment—can make all the difference.

We also discuss practical coping strategies for both those living with depression and the loved ones who want to support them, including flexible invitations, self-care routines, and giving yourself permission to simplify traditions.

If you’re struggling with the holidays, this episode offers validation, perspective, and tools for making the season gentler on your mental health.

Primary Topics Covered:

Why the holidays can feel harder with depression
Grief, loss, and the “Scrooge” perspective on holiday struggles
The role of unrealistic expectations and financial/social stress
Compassionate ways friends and family can support someone struggling
Practical self-care strategies for navigating holiday depression
Redefining traditions and giving yourself permission to simplify

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction and welcome
01:08 – Why depression can feel worse during the holidays
02:42 – Ebenezer Scrooge as a lens to understand grief and depression
04:23 – The stigma of not being “in the holiday spirit”
05:41 – Depression as feeling disconnected during holiday celebrations
06:54 – Why declining holiday invitations isn’t always about rejection
07:14 – The gift of offering flexible invitations and compassion
09:25 – Shifting that same compassion inward: the basics of self-care
10:51 – Affordable, realistic ways to practice holiday self-care
11:37 – Reclaiming choice: defining what the holidays mean for you
13:27 – Simplifying traditions and focusing on what nourishes you
14:37 – Managing financial and emotional fallout after the holidays
15:13 – The importance of permission and choice in holiday planning
16:08 – Personal reflections on simplifying and redefining Christmas
17:23 – Closing thoughts and holiday wishes

Depression in the Black Community: Overcoming Stigma and Healing Through Therapy Dec 12, 2017

Show notes

Depression does not discriminate, but the way it is experienced, discussed, and treated in different communities can vary greatly. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we sit down with Philip Roundtree, a therapist and mental health advocate, who shares his personal and professional perspective on depression in the Black community.

Philip opens up about living with depression and anxiety, the daily reality of suicidal thoughts, and the healing power of therapy and medication. He also tackles the unique stigma in the Black community—where historical trauma, cultural expectations, and systemic barriers often prevent open discussions about mental health.

Through his story, Philip emphasizes the importance of representation, open conversations, and seeking real help beyond prayer alone. His perspective offers both honesty and hope: that healing is possible, and that strength includes caring for your mental health.

This powerful conversation will resonate with anyone who has struggled with depression, faced stigma, or wondered how cultural identity shapes our mental health journeys.

Link to Phillip Roundtree's site Quadefy LLC: http://quadefyllc.net/

Primary Topics Covered:

How depression and anxiety show up differently in the Black community
The impact of stigma, cultural expectations, and historical trauma
Why representation matters in mental health advocacy and treatment
Suicidal thoughts and the lifesaving role of support systems
The importance of therapy, medication, and holistic healing
How to balance spirituality and faith with professional mental health care

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to Giving Voice to Depression
01:20 – Depression, negative thoughts, and cultural differences
02:11 – Meet Philip Roundtree: therapist and advocate
03:10 – Wearing “This Is What Depression Looks Like”
04:15 – Stigma and silence around mental health in the Black community
05:12 – Historical trauma, mistrust, and resilience
07:08 – Living with suicidal thoughts daily
08:29 – The importance of having someone to call for support
09:41 – How medication helped shift suicidal thinking
10:48 – Therapy as healing, not just coping
11:15 – Closing reflections and resources

Depression Treatment That Works: Real Stories of Healing and Hope Dec 05, 2017

Show notes

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Brant Williams shares his journey of battling anxiety and depression and the creative ways he found to communicate and heal. Through his graphic novel Out of the Woods, Brant opens an honest window into what depression feels like, how it impacts loved ones, and the step-by-step process of rebuilding life after darkness.

Brant reminds us that recovery is not quick or linear—it’s about small, intentional steps that add up over time. From breathing techniques and therapy to journaling and mood tracking, he built his recovery brick by brick. This conversation is both vulnerable and hopeful, showing that while depression is a thief, it can also become a wake-up call to real, lasting change.

If you or someone you love is struggling, this episode offers practical strategies, compassionate perspective, and the reassurance that healing is possible—one brick at a time.

Primary Topics Covered:

Why Brant chose a graphic novel to share his experience with depression
The impact of depression on family, friends, and relationships
Practical recovery tools: breathing, journaling, therapy, mood tracking
Learning from missteps and reframing depression as a wake-up call
The importance of patience, persistence, and small daily steps

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to the episode and guest
01:00 – Why Brant shared his story through a graphic novel
02:50 – Depression’s impact on loved ones and relationships
04:20 – Building recovery “one brick at a time”
05:15 – Mistakes and lessons from Brant’s early struggles
06:20 – Breathing exercises and grounding techniques
07:30 – How depression affects the brain and the role of neurofeedback
08:30 – Finding the right therapist and the value of expression
09:20 – How friends and family can support someone with depression
10:15 – Reflections on medication and treatment decisions
11:00 – Mood tracking and journaling as recovery tools
12:20 – How depression changes self-identity and perspective
13:30 – Depression as both a thief and a wake-up call
14:30 – Closing thoughts: hope, healing, and practical tools

Depression in College Students: Justin’s Story of Survival and Recovery Nov 28, 2017

Show notes

Starting college can be exciting, but for many students, it can also be overwhelming and isolating. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Justin shares his raw and honest story about battling severe depression during his college years — from isolation in the dorms and academic struggles to a moment of crisis that nearly cost him his life.

Justin describes how depression stripped away friendships, time, and self-worth, but also how opening up to his family and seeking professional help put him on a path toward healing. His journey highlights the importance of recognizing the signs of depression in students, breaking stigma, and reminding those struggling that recovery is possible.

This episode is for anyone navigating college depression themselves, parents worried about their kids, or friends who want to better understand how to support loved ones during this critical life stage.

Link to article on college depression: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/tween-and-teen-health/in-depth/college-depression/art-20048327

Link to Justin's book: https://www.amazon.com/Hell-Has-No-Stars-Depression/dp/150272748X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1511816933&sr=1-1&keywords=justin+mercer

Primary Topics Covered:

What “college depression” means and why it’s so common
Justin’s personal story of depression beginning in adolescence and peaking in college
The impact of isolation, academic pressure, and negative self-talk
How depression nearly took Justin’s life — and what stopped him
The role of family support, therapy, and medication in recovery
Moving from breakdown to breakthrough and building resilience
Why sharing stories matters: connection, empathy, and reducing stigma

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to the episode
00:27 – What “college depression” is and why it matters
02:08 – Justin traces his depression back to age 12
03:01 – How isolation in college worsened his mental health
03:47 – Emotional and physical isolation in the dorms
05:13 – Reaching rock bottom: the night of his suicide attempt
06:32 – Opening up to his parents and the turning point
07:35 – Starting treatment and the trial-and-error of medication
08:38 – Learning to shift from “breakdown” to “breakthrough”
08:57 – Justin’s reflections at 23: resilience and perseverance
09:57 – The importance of connection and rediscovering hope
11:14 – Tools for remembering depression will pass
11:59 – Justin’s book Hell Has No Stars and additional resources

Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Awareness: Lessons from Kevin Briggs, Guardian of the Golden Gate Nov 21, 2017

Show notes

Retired California Highway Patrol officer Kevin Briggs, often called “The Guardian of the Golden Gate”, has been on the frontlines of suicide prevention for decades. In this powerful conversation, Kevin shares his personal battle with depression and PTSD, the lessons he learned from speaking with hundreds of people on the Golden Gate Bridge, and how listening, empathy, and hope can truly save lives.

Kevin’s story reminds us that while medications and therapy can help, sometimes what people need most is someone who will simply listen. He explains why stopping medication without medical advice can be dangerous, the most common reasons people reach crisis points, and how families and friends can better support loved ones struggling with mental illness.

This episode is about courage—both in facing our own mental health struggles and in being present for others when the stakes are life or death.

Primary Topics Covered:

Kevin Briggs’ personal struggle with depression and PTSD
His role as a suicide prevention officer on the Golden Gate Bridge
Why listening and empathy are essential tools in suicide prevention
The dangers of stopping psychiatric medication without medical guidance
Common triggers for suicidal ideation (relationships, finances, untreated illness)
How to find the right therapist or support system
The emotional toll of suicide prevention work—and how Kevin takes care of his own mental health

Timestamps:

00:10 – Introduction to the podcast and mission
01:00 – Kevin Briggs’ background as an Army veteran and officer
02:19 – Early misconceptions about mental illness
03:13 – Kevin’s depression diagnosis and what changed his perspective
04:09 – Becoming known as the “Guardian of the Golden Gate”
05:24 – Why finding the right therapist matters
06:02 – The power of listening before crisis escalates
07:01 – Common reasons people reach suicidal crisis points
07:24 – Why stopping medication suddenly can be dangerous
08:16 – What helped most during crisis conversations
08:51 – What didn’t help—and lessons learned
09:58 – The emotional toll of prevention work and coping with loss
11:11 – Kevin’s own mental health care and self-care practices
12:22 – The importance of courageous conversations about depression
13:22 – Call to action: speak up if you’re hurting, listen up if someone else is

Real Stories of Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Support: Compassion in Action Nov 14, 2017

Show notes

What happens when a stranger chooses compassion in a moment of crisis? This episode continues the extraordinary true story of Johnny and Neil—two men whose lives changed forever on a bridge in London. In Part Two, Johnny reflects on the aftermath of that day, the struggles that followed, and the small but powerful moments of hope that kept him moving forward.

Listeners will hear how one conversation inspired lasting recovery, sparked a global campaign (#FindMike), and turned two strangers into lifelong friends and mental health advocates. This episode is a moving reminder of how empathy, openness, and human connection can save lives—and how each of us has the power to offer hope.

Primary Topics Covered:

The aftermath of Johnny’s suicide crisis and hospital stay
How one compassionate conversation planted seeds of hope
The challenges of recovery, relapse, and acceptance
The viral #FindMike campaign and its surprising results
Stories of “silent heroes” who stop to help strangers in distress
Why compassion and human connection are vital in suicide prevention
The underestimated power of giving someone hope

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction and recap of Part One
01:00 – Picking up after the crisis on the bridge
02:15 – Johnny reflects on anger, regret, and eventual hope
03:30 – The slow process of recovery and acceptance
04:50 – A life-changing conversation with a friend
05:40 – Making a video and realizing he wasn’t alone
06:30 – The launch and impact of the #FindMike campaign
07:30 – Stories of “silent heroes” who helped strangers in crisis
09:00 – Neil reflects on why he stopped to help Johnny
10:15 – The role of empathy and openness in mental health support
11:20 – How compassion can give someone hope
12:20 – Neil and Johnny’s friendship and advocacy work today
13:10 – Closing reflections: the underestimated power of hope

Suicide Prevention and Mental Health: Why Empathy and Compassion Matter Most Nov 07, 2017

Show notes

In this moving episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Bridget and Terry share a powerful first-person story of empathy, compassion, and suicide prevention. When Johnny, a young man in the UK, sat on a bridge planning to end his life, a stranger named Neil stopped to listen. Without training, but with deep compassion, Neil offered empathy in a way Johnny had never experienced before—reminding him he was not alone, that there was nothing to be ashamed of, and that recovery was possible.

Their conversation not only saved Johnny’s life but highlights how ordinary people can make an extraordinary difference simply by listening with compassion. This episode explores the transformative power of empathy, the importance of suicide prevention conversations, and how showing up for someone in crisis can change everything.

Primary Topics Covered:

The power of empathy in suicide prevention
Johnny’s lived experience with schizoaffective disorder
The role of shame and stigma in suicidal thoughts
How a stranger’s compassion created hope in crisis
Why listening and presence matter more than training
Lessons we can all apply to support someone in need

Timestamps

00:10 – Introduction to the new season of Giving Voice to Depression
01:12 – Announcement of podcast growth and first grant support
01:37 – Recap of previous suicide prevention episodes
02:13 – Neil’s story: encountering Johnny on the bridge
03:20 – Johnny shares his state of mind and diagnosis
04:47 – The first conversation between Neil and Johnny
05:48 – The power of listening without judgment
06:52 – Words that gave Johnny hope and shifted his perspective
07:59 – Johnny agrees to step down and seek warmth and safety
08:35 – Police intervention and the impact on the moment
09:56 – Reflections on compassion and empathy as lifesaving forces
12:32 – Closing thoughts on being an ally and showing up for others
13:05 – Podcast wrap-up and call to action

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