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

Living with Depression: Why the 3-Day Rule Can Stop a Downward Spiral

09 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

When Matt Zinman hit his lowest point after losing his brother, he realized something critical: the difference between a bad day and a dangerous spira...

Depression and Family History: How Genetics and Trauma Shape Mental Health

02 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

What role does family history play in depression and other mental health conditions? In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, guest Matt Zinman ...

Dual Diagnosis: Depression and Substance Abuse Recovery Explained

25 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

When depression and addiction occur together, the struggle is even greater. This is called a dual diagnosis, and it requires unique approaches to trea...

Suicide Prevention and Community Support: Why You Must Check on Your Friends

18 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

After losing her son Jake to suicide, Jeannie transformed her grief into action by creating the “Check on Your Friends” movement. What started as ...

Suicide Loss and Parenting: Why Doing Everything Right Doesn’t Always Prevent Tragedy

11 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

What happens when a parent does “everything right” — early intervention, therapy, open communication — and still loses their child to suicide?...

Living with Depression: Redefining What ‘Normal’ Really Means

04 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

What does “normal” look like when you’re living with depression? For Tara, it’s not what society tells her it should be—it’s the small vic...

Depression and Suicidal Thoughts: Brian Dawkins’ Powerful Mental Health Journey

28 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

NFL Hall of Famer Brian Dawkins opens up about his battle with depression, suicidal thoughts, and the powerful lessons he’s learned in facing mental...

Breaking Mental Health Stigma: Paula’s Story of Depression and Healing

21 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this inspiring episode, Paula shares her powerful story of living with depression, confronting stigma, and ultimately finding hope. Though known fo...

Depression and Anxiety: Why Listening Can Save a Life

14 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

What does it mean to truly listen to someone who’s struggling with depression or anxiety? In this episode, we revisit an impactful conversation with...

Postpartum Depression: Signs, Symptoms, and Real Stories of Recovery

07 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Postpartum depression (PPD) is more common than most people realize—and yet it often goes unrecognized, unspoken, or dismissed as “just the baby b...

Postpartum Depression: Signs, Symptoms, and Finding Support

30 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Postpartum depression (PPD) affects 1 in 8 new mothers, yet it often remains hidden behind stigma, shame, and the expectation of joy after childbirth....

Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Recovery Stories: The Power of Compassion

23 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we revisit Part 2 of an unforgettable story of compassion, connection, and hope. Jonny shares how a str...

Depression and Compassion: Why Small Acts of Kindness Matter Most

16 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

What difference can compassion make in someone’s darkest moment? In this powerful episode, we share the story of a stranger who stopped and listened...

How to Help Someone with Depression: Practical Ways to Support a Loved One

09 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Supporting a loved one with depression can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure what to say or do. In this episode of Giving Voice to De...

How to Help Someone Struggling with Depression: 5 Practical Ways to Show Support

02 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Supporting a loved one with depression can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure what to say or do. In this episode of Giving Voice to De...

Struggling with Depression? Here’s Exactly What to Say When You Need Help

26 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Reaching out for help when you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts can feel impossible — especially when you don’t know...

Depression and Asking for Help: Practical Ways to Reach Out When You’re Struggling

19 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Reaching out when you’re struggling with depression can feel impossible—but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression...

Living with Depression: Finding Hope After Suicidal Thoughts During the Pandemic

12 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

When the pandemic forced him into isolation, John found himself at his darkest point—facing suicidal thoughts more serious than ever before. But ins...

Living with Depression: How Naming It Helped Me Find Strength and Hope

05 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

For decades, John thought his pain was weakness. He buried his feelings, convinced that naming them would make him “less of a man.” But when he fi...

Depression and Suicidal Thoughts: Speaking Up to Save Your Life

27 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Depression often whispers the cruel lie that your loved ones would be “better off without you.” These thoughts are not truths — they are symptom...

Depression Hospitalization vs. Medical Care: One Woman’s Eye-Opening Story

20 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

When Katie was hospitalized for suicidal thoughts, her stay was life-saving. Just three months later, she was hospitalized again—this time for emerg...

Depression in Families: Supporting Children Through a Parent’s Struggles

13 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

When a parent lives with depression, the impact extends beyond the individual—it ripples into the family, especially children. In this moving episod...

Identifying and Managing Depression: Signs, Symptoms, and Effective Treatments

06 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Depression doesn’t look the same for everyone. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Liz shares her personal journey through two very diffe...

Childhood Depression: Early Warning Signs Every Parent Should Know

30 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Childhood depression often hides in plain sight — mistaken for shyness, teenage moodiness, or simply “a phase.” But the truth is, children can e...

How Video Games Can Improve Mental Health: Benefits for Stress, Anxiety, and Depression

23 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Video games aren’t just entertainment — for many, they’re a lifeline during tough times. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we explo...

How to Function with Depression: Why Doing the Bare Minimum Is Still Enough

16 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

When you’re living with depression, basic tasks can feel like climbing mountains. This episode is about removing the shame from that reality—and g...

Living with Depression in College: Emily’s Journey Through Darkness and Healing

09 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this powerful episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Emily Director shares her journey of living with depression in college and beyond. From strugg...

Exercise and Mental Health: Why Movement is One of the Best New Year Resolutions

02 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

When it comes to New Year’s resolutions, many of us set big goals that can feel overwhelming and unsustainable. But what if the key to lasting chang...

Teen Depression: What I Wish I Had Known About Recovery and Hope

26 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Charlotte Underwood shares her deeply personal story of surviving teenage depression. Looking back, she...

Coping with Depression During the Holidays: A Message of Hope for Christmas

24 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

 For many, Christmas is not all “merry and bright.” If you’re grieving, feeling alone, or carrying heavy emotional weight this holiday, this ep...

Free Mental Health Strategies You Can Use Anytime to Reduce Stress

19 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Barbara Moser, a trained teacher in mindful self-compassion, offers three powerful, free tools for managing mental health. Design...

Managing Depression During the Holidays: Family Triggers, Loneliness, and Coping Strategies

12 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

The holidays can bring joy, but for many, they also bring anxiety, sadness, and stress. In this episode, Dr. Anita Sanz and Terry McGuire discuss the ...

How to Manage Grief and Depression Through the Holiday Season

05 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

The holidays can be especially painful for those facing grief and depression. In this episode, hosts Terry and Dr. Anita Sanz speak with grief expert ...

Caregiver Support for Depression: Ground Rules That Protect Relationships

28 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Caring for someone with depression can feel overwhelming—and without clear boundaries, it can take a serious toll on relationships. In this episode,...

Caring for Someone with Depression: Boundaries, Burnout, and Finding Balance

21 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Caring for someone with depression can feel isolating, overwhelming, and exhausting—especially when it’s your partner or child. In this candid epi...

Living with a Depressed Spouse: Mental Health and Parenting Challenges

14 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Primary Topics CoveredEmotional toll of living with a partner with depressionParenting while managing a spouse's mental illnessThe difference bet...

How Watching the News Impacts Mental Health: Anxiety, Stress, and Trauma Explained

07 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Terry and Anita discuss how constant exposure to traumatic news affects our mental health. Drawing...

Depression Support That Works: How Simple Acts of Kindness Save Lives

31 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Sometimes, the simplest gestures can make the biggest difference. In this moving episode, Rosaleen shares how she went from despair—believing she wa...

What to Say (and Not Say) to Someone Struggling With Depression

24 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

When someone you love is struggling with depression, knowing what to say can feel overwhelming. In this episode, we share real, heartfelt messages of ...

How to Support Someone With Depression: Listening, Patience, and Real Connection

17 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Recovery from depression is not a straight line—it’s a journey of progress, setbacks, and resilience. In this candid episode, Lacey shares what sh...

How to Recognize Depression Early: A Teen’s Journey From Struggle to Healing

10 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Depression can show up suddenly, even in a supportive home. For Lacey, symptoms of depression and anxiety began at age 14—confusing her family, frie...

Parenting Through Mental Illness: Lessons Learned From Supporting Kids With Depression and Anxiety

03 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we sit down with Craig Kramer, a father, advocate, and former Johnson & Johnson executive, who shar...

Hope After a Suicide Attempt: Jeannine’s Powerful Story of Survival and Healing

26 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

When Jeannine Rivers was 19, she attempted suicide. She expected to never wake up—but she did. In that moment of panic and realization, she discover...

Depression, Trauma, and Finding Hope: Janine’s Journey of Survival and Strength

17 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Depression often begins with voices—sometimes internal, sometimes from those around us—that tell us we’re not good enough. For Janine, those voi...

Living with Depression: Finding Hope After Suicidal Thoughts

12 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this powerful episode of Giving Voice to Depression, suicide attempt survivor Mark Henick shares his journey from childhood struggles with depressi...

Suicide Prevention Facts vs. Myths: Breaking Stigma and Saving Lives

05 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, mental health advocate Mark Henick helps us break down the dangerous myths and misconceptions about sui...

Bipolar Recovery Journey: From Suicide Attempt to Ten Years of Progress

29 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

How do we measure progress when living with a lifelong mental health condition? For Rebecca Lombardo, turning 50 offered the perspective to look back ...

Supporting a Partner with Depression or Bipolar Disorder: How to Support Without Losing Yourself

22 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

When someone you love is diagnosed with a mental illness, it changes both of your lives. In this deeply honest and loving episode, Becca and Joe Lomba...

Depression and Alcohol Recovery: Jordan on Sobriety, Healing, and Helping Others

15 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

For years, Jordan lived with untreated depression that he hid behind success in sports, social life, and eventually alcohol. Drinking offered temporar...

Breaking Mental Health Stigma: Juliet Kuehnle on Language, Labels, and Vulnerability

08 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Stigma keeps people silent—and silence keeps people suffering.In this episode, therapist and author Juliet Kuehnle shares how she’s fighting stigm...

How Ending Mental Health Stigma Saves Lives: Stories of Safety and Support

01 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Stigma isn’t just hurtful—it’s dangerous.In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, co-hosts Terry and Dr. Anita continue the stigma series ...

Why Mental Health Stigma Matters: Real Stories of Depression, Shame, and Silence

25 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Stigma doesn’t just hurt feelings—it delays help, worsens depression, and puts lives at risk.In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Terry ...

Fighting Mental Health Stigma With Stories: Why Lived Experience Matters

18 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Education alone doesn’t end stigma—stories do.In this powerful conversation, world-renowned stigma researcher Dr. Patrick Corrigan explains why sh...

Mental Health Crisis Plan: How to Stay Safe When Depression Worsens

10 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

When you're living with depression, knowing what to do before a mental health crisis hits can be life-saving. In this powerful and practical epis...

How to Make a Mental Health Wellness Plan: Daily Tools for Living with Depression

04 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

A mental health wellness plan isn’t just a worksheet—it’s a lifeline. In this episode, co-hosts Terry and Dr. Anita Sanz walk through the first ...

Depression, Self-Care, and Self-Compassion: Finding a Life Worth Living

27 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Who are you healing for? Yourself—or everyone else?In this deeply personal episode of Giving Voice to Depression, guest Ari Cohen shares her journey...

Losing a Parent to Suicide: A Son’s Journey Through Grief, Guilt, and Healing

20 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

What happens when suicide leaves a child behind?In this moving episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Nic Sheff—author of Ashes in the Ocean—share...

Smiling on the Outside, Struggling Inside: The Truth About Hidden Depression

13 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Is your smile hiding something deeper?In this powerful episode of Giving Voice to Depression, guest Andrew shares his candid story about the mask he w...

Living with Depression: How to Challenge Its Lies and Break Free from Hopeless Thinking

06 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Living with depression often means battling thoughts that feel convincing—but aren't true. You might believe you're broken, that nothing w...

How to Talk to Kids About a Parent’s Depression: Lessons from Sometimes Daddy Cries

23 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

How do you explain depression to a child—especially when it’s their parent who is struggling?In this moving episode, Todd Rennebohm, author of Som...

Depression and Wellness: Darin Olien on Healing Through Nutrition, Sleep, and Support

16 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this extended conversation with Darin Olien—wellness expert, bestselling author, and co-host of Down to Earth with Zac Efron—we explore the dee...

How Wellness Habits Support Depression Recovery: Nutrition, Sleep, and Healing with Darin Olien

09 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Can everyday wellness habits really support depression recovery?In this inspiring episode, bestselling author and wellness expert Darin Olien (SuperLi...

Living With Bipolar Disorder: Michelle Yang on Stigma, Resilience, and Mental Health Advocacy

02 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

What does it take to move from struggling in silence to becoming a mental health advocate?In this candid episode, writer and advocate Michelle Yang sh...

Good Grades and Depression: Why Academic Success Can Hide Teen Mental Illness

25 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Can a teen be excelling academically while secretly battling depression or bipolar disorder?In this revealing episode, Michelle Yang shares her story ...

Therapy for Depression: What to Expect, When to Start, and How to Find the Right Therapist

18 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

What’s therapy really like—and when should you go?In this milestone episode, Dr. Anita Sanz demystifies the therapy process for anyone considering...

Recovering From Chronic Depression: How Small Shifts Helped Lori Find Hope Again

11 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Can tiny shifts in perspective really make a difference in chronic depression?In this powerful follow-up conversation, Lori shares her ongoing recover...

Living With Persistent Depression: Lori’s Story of Daily Struggles and Survival

04 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

What does it feel like to live with depression every single day—for years?In this deeply honest episode, Lori shares what it’s like to live with p...

What Depression Feels Like: Understanding Spoon Theory and Energy Limits

28 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

What does depression really feel like? In this episode, we break down the concept of Spoon Theory, a powerful way to understand the daily challenges o...

Brian Dawkins on Depression, Suicidal Thoughts, and the Fight for Mental Health

21 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

What happens when one of the toughest men in the NFL takes off the mask and admits he’s been battling depression?In this powerful 100th episode of G...

"Anything Can Happen": How The Tors Turned Depression Into a Global Mental Health Anthem

14 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Can sharing your darkest struggles create light for others?In this heartfelt episode, Matt Weeden of The Tors Band continues the conversation about th...

Coping with Depression: How The Tors’ Song ‘Anything Can Happen’ Brings Hope

07 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Music has a way of putting words and emotions to experiences we can’t always explain. In this episode, Matt Weedon of The Tors shares the story behi...

Doctor With Treatment-Resistant Depression Shares His Story of ECT, Stigma, and Recovery

28 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

What happens when the doctor becomes the patient?In this moving episode, trauma surgeon Dr. Michael Weinstein shares his deeply personal story of livi...

Stigma, Burnout, and the Hidden Mental Health Crisis: When Doctors Get Depressed

21 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

If doctors and psychologists are trained to care for others, why are so many struggling with depression and burnout themselves?In this important episo...

Depression, Hope, and the Little Heart Project: How Small Acts of Kindness Can Save Lives

14 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Can a small crocheted heart save a life?In this powerful Valentine’s Day episode, Kathleen shares how her battle with depression, anxiety, complex P...

Living With Depression, Anxiety, and Addiction: Don’s Dual Diagnosis Recovery Story

07 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

What does it mean to live with a dual diagnosis?In this episode, Don shares his candid story of navigating clinical depression, anxiety, and substance...

Depression and Family Support: How Loved Ones Can Help in Recovery

31 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

What role does family play in depression recovery?In this episode, Sandeep, a 33-year-old British-Asian woman, shares her journey through depression, ...

How a Parent With Depression, Bipolar or Mental Illness Affects Children and Families

24 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

What happens when a child grows up with a parent who has depression or bipolar disorder?In this powerful episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Michel...

What Depression Feels Like in the Moment: Real Stories of Darkness and Healing

17 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

What does depression feel like when you’re right in the middle of it?In this candid episode of Giving Voice to Depression, author and advocate Gina ...

Living With Depression: How Therapy, Gratitude, and Hope Helped Me Recover

10 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

What does it feel like to find light after years of depression?In this episode, Cara from Belfast, Northern Ireland shares her lived experience with d...

What Helps With Depression? CBT, Journaling, and Coping Lessons

03 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this second part of our year-end reflection, Terri, Anita, and Bridget revisit powerful moments from 2022 that offered new ways of coping with depr...

What Depression Really Feels Like: Lessons and Stories of Hope

27 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

As 2022 comes to a close, we reflect on some of the most powerful conversations from the past year—conversations that remind us what depression real...

Depression at Christmas: Coping with Loneliness and Grief During the Holidays

24 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Christmas can be especially difficult for those living with depression, grief, or loneliness. While many people celebrate joy and togetherness, others...

What I Wish I Knew as a Teenager Struggling With Depression

20 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

What would you say to your younger self if you could go back in time?In this heartfelt episode of Giving Voice to Depression, author and advocate Char...

Free Mental Health Tools for Stress Relief: Mindfulness, Breathing, and Self-Compassion Practices

13 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Dr. Barbara Moser shares three simple, research-backed practices you can use anytime to calm anxiety, r...

Mindfulness and Self-Compassion for Depression Relief: Simple Daily Practices

06 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Terry and Dr. Anita Sanchez speak with Dr. Barbara Moser, a medical doctor and long-time suicide preven...

Living with Depression: Why Talking Openly Can Be the First Step to Healing

02 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

What happens when we finally speak the truth about depression? In this episode of SelfWork, Dr. Margaret sits down with Terry McGuire, former journali...

Behavioral Activation for Depression: How Small Actions Break the Cycle

29 Nov 2022

Contributed by Lukas

What if depression isn’t just sadness, but something more insidious—like a parasite that feeds on your energy, motivation, and joy?In this episode...

Living With Bipolar Disorder: Finding Light in the Darkness of Depression

22 Nov 2022

Contributed by Lukas

What does it mean to call depression a “terrible gift”?In this powerful episode of Giving Voice to Depression, poet and artist Kristen Roedl share...

Managing Depression During the Holidays: Tips to Protect Your Mental Health

15 Nov 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Navigating the holiday season while living with depression can be overwhelming. In this episode, clinical psychologist Anita and host Terry discuss wh...

Depression in Black and Brown Communities: Breaking Stigma and Seeking Help

08 Nov 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In too many Black and Brown communities, depression and other mental health struggles are hidden behind stigma, silence, and cultural expectations of ...

How to Deal With Depression: Breaking Absolutist Thinking and Suicidal Thoughts

01 Nov 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Can the words we use reveal the depth of our depression and even our risk of suicide? Dr. Mohammed Al-Mosaiwi, psychologist and researcher, joins us t...

Cancer and Depression: How Therapy and Support Help Patients Heal

25 Oct 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this powerful episode, we hear from J.J. Singleton, who has lived with terminal colorectal cancer for years while also battling depression, PTSD, a...

Self-Care for Depression: Evidence-Based Tips for the Days You Can’t Get Out of Bed

18 Oct 2022

Contributed by Lukas

What do you do when even brushing your teeth or standing up feels impossible?This deeply validating and practical episode features Emily Derecktor, fo...

Depression in College: Emily’s Story of Struggle and Survival

11 Oct 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Emily Director shares her deeply personal journey through depression, beginning with her struggles duri...

How Depression Impacts Teens: Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Recovery

04 Oct 2022

Contributed by Lukas

This episode features Chloe, who opens up about her early struggle with depression beginning at age 11. After facing intense emotional pain, suicidal ...

Surviving Depression and Suicidal Thoughts: How Recovery and Hope Are Possible

27 Sep 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this powerful episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we continue our conversation with Ken Baldwin, one of the very few people to survive a jump fr...

How Suicide Survivors Found Hope: Stories of Survival from the Golden Gate Bridge

20 Sep 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this powerful episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Ken Baldwin shares his story of surviving a suicide attempt from the Golden Gate Bridge and th...

Stopping Suicide Before It Happens: Conversations That Save Lives

13 Sep 2022

Contributed by Lukas

What does it take to talk someone back from the edge of suicide? In this powerful episode, we hear from Kevin Briggs, retired California Highway Patro...

Living with Daily Suicidal Thoughts: Wally’s Story of Pain, Tools, and Mental Health Survival

06 Sep 2022

Contributed by Lukas

What does it mean to live with suicidal thoughts every single day—and still choose to live?In this profoundly honest episode, Wally, a U.S. veteran ...

Mental Health Recovery Tools: The 12 Steps Rewritten for Depression and PTSD

30 Aug 2022

Contributed by Lukas

What if the 12 Steps weren’t just for addiction—but also for healing from depression, PTSD, and trauma?In this transformative episode, Wally share...