))
Depression affects more than 375,000,000 worldwide. So, if you don't have it yourself, you know someone who does. Giving Voice to Depression was founded to start discussions that reduce stigma and promote understanding. We look at depression from many angles. Terry McGuire, a journalist with depression interviews a guest each week about their experience of depression. Some have episodes, others live with the mood disorder chronically. All share things that do and do not help their mental-hea ...
…
continue reading
In this poignant episode of the Giving Voice to Depression podcast, we explore a chance encounter that changed lives forever. Join us as we hear from two remarkable individuals: Jonny, who stood on the edge, and Neil, whose compassion halted tragedy. Jonny ran from a psychiatric hospital to a nearby bridge, consumed by despair. But Neil appeared, o…
…
continue reading
We're not taught how to have these conversations.: A friend or family member is struggling. Maybe they're just "not themselves." Maybe they're suicidal. How do we offer support them? What do we say? What do we need to avoid saying? What can we do that's actually helpful? In this episode we explore a list of real-world tested ways we learn from some…
…
continue reading
For the past two weeks we've explored ways to reach out for support if you are the one struggling. Today we shift gears. What if you know someone who seems really depressed--maybe even suicidal, and they're not reaching out. How do you reach IN? In the first of two episodes, our return guest Sam Dylan Finch details how people have shown up for him …
…
continue reading
How many times have you heard: "Reach out if you are struggling."But it's not as easy or clear as it sounds. How? What if you don't even know what you want or need? What if your depression has convinced you no one cares, that you don't deserve help, or that you are a bother to people?It can all sound straight forward and obvious from the outside, o…
…
continue reading
How many times have you heard: "Reach out if you are struggling."But how? What should you say? When should you say it and to whom? It can all sound straight forward and obvious from the outside, or from wellness. But in dark times, or hours of crisis, nothing is clear. And with depression convincing you no one cares about or would want to help you,…
…
continue reading
"Carrying Buckets of Water for Those Still in the Fire" is a continuation of John's story from last week (#297- When You Learn That What You're Feeling Has a Name:") Despite delving into psychology, battling bouts of depression his whole life, and tirelessly researching his own mind and body, John struggled to piece together his inner turmoil. It w…
…
continue reading
In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, join us as we delve into John's journey of self-discovery. Struggling with the end of a relationship and battling Covid, John confronted the depths of his despair, only to realize that what he's been living with and battling most of his life has a name: depression. Tune in as we explore the societal pr…
…
continue reading
In this poignant episode of Giving Voice to Depression, titled "Why You Have to Tell Someone if You're Suicidal," we delve into the critical importance of telling someone if you're struggling with suicidal ideation-- EVEN IF you believe no one cares or any of the other lies that depression is likely telling you. Our guest Katie, bravely shares her …
…
continue reading
In this compelling episode, Katie shares her deeply personal journey through two distinct emergencies: one marked by psychiatric crisis and the other by physical trauma. With raw honesty, she contrasts her experiences navigating the emergency healthcare system during a period of intense vulnerability. First, Katie shares how, after detailed plannin…
…
continue reading
In this special Valentine's episode of our podcast, we delve into the heartwarming journey of Kathleen and the transformative power of small gestures in igniting conversations about mental health. At the heart of this narrative lies "The Little Heart Project," a touching initiative born from personal struggle and a desire to spread love and underst…
…
continue reading
In this deeply insightful episode of our podcast, we are joined by Liz, who shares her personal journey through various types of depression. With candid honesty, clarity and vulnerability, Liz opens up about her experiences, shedding light on the complexity of mental health struggles and the power of supportive friendships. At the heart of this epi…
…
continue reading
In this 18-minunte episode, we delve deep into the consequences of overlooking early symptoms of depression. Join us as we sit down with Sally, a senior citizen who has spent a lifetime battling depression that began in childhood, yet went undiagnosed and unaddressed for years. As Sally recounts her journey, listeners are taken on a poignant explor…
…
continue reading
When mental health management tools are discussed, there's the often-mentioned A-List: meds, therapy, getting outside, exercise, meditation, etc. But when we talk with our weekly guests about what works for them, the list is lond and personalized. It includes everything from creative projects like coloring to mood-lifting music, solo dancing, inter…
…
continue reading
In one of the most-practical episodes we've produced, we get into the weeds and look at how to keep yourself nourished, and your body and environment clean (enough)when you "just can't" because of depression. Emily Derecktor, founder of the free online resource Cereal for Dinner, knows first-hand that depression can be disabling. She has compiled e…
…
continue reading
Depression is a thief. It steals our vitality, our sense of connection and worth. Our dreams. And sometimes our very will to live. This week's guest, Emily Derecktor knows losses. She worked hard to do well in school, get into top universities and earn admittance to medical school. And then depression stole that opportunity. For now, anyways. In th…
…
continue reading
Since you're listening to a depression podcast it's likely that you, like us, could benefit from "resolving" to prioritize your mental health in this New Year. This 27-minute podcast episode looks at several options, including movement- which can be running, walking, dancing, bike riding or any other activity. Whichever you choose to incorporate in…
…
continue reading
A (then) 23-year-old woman stops during a magical holiday moment to tweet to her 14-year-old suicidal self the message that the fight IS worth it, that things can and will change, that you will not always feel the way you do right now, that hope wins and you are NOT alone. It's a New Year's message of hope and recovery that we hope you'll listen to…
…
continue reading
We post this 6-minute essay every Christmas Eve, for those who are not feeling merry or bright. Whether it's depression, grief, loneliness or something else, if you are hurting, the "joyfulness" of this holiday season can make things feel even worse. John Pavlovitz wrote and recorded a powerful essay we know some of you will also be comforted by-- …
…
continue reading
End-of-year holidays can be a celebratory time. Or a stressful time. Or both. Whichever is true for you, it's a good time to add or tune-up some of the tools in your mental-health toolkit. This episode focuses on mindfulness and self-compassion -- two readily accessible tools that can help us regulate and cope with difficult emotions. And when the …
…
continue reading
How could making a secret, customized Bingo card help you manage holiday stressors? What's the value of a "buffer day?" Those are just two of the many tips and tricks shared by Dr. Anita Sanz, a licensed clinical psychologist to help us manage and protect our mental health during what can be a difficult time of year for many. Even if you enjoy the …
…
continue reading
Grieving any impactful loss can be especially challenging during the holidays. There are so many expectations that we celebrate and keep up traditions regardless of our feelings and pain. Setting and communicating clear boundaries (even if they will disappoint or upset others) and managing expectations are two ways to protect ourselves and our hear…
…
continue reading
Living with depression is difficult. That's true for both the person with the mood disorder, and those around them who are also affected. Last week in "Caregivers Have Needs Too," Gwen, a professional, wife and mother, shared about the challenges of partnering, parenting and running a home with a person who experiences debilitating depression. This…
…
continue reading
Having depression is hard. Loving and caring for someone with depression is, too. November is National Caregivers Month, and this 24-minute episode explores the need for boundaries, perspective, communication, and self-care while supporting a family member who is struggling. This 24-minute episode is a response to last week's "I Wish People Underst…
…
continue reading
A podcast listener, who is married to and raising a child with a man with depression and other mental health conditions, reached out to get some information and support from others who understand the lonely realities of her situation. Margaret describes the challenges of trying to run a house and family with a partner whose depression makes him una…
…
continue reading
As individuals, we don't have much control over world events. But when tragic news fills 24-hour news cycles, we have a responsibility to ourselves to tune in and make choices that limit the impact on our mental health. In this remixed episode, our guest, Dr. Robert Duff (Duff the Psych,) talks about the line between being informed and being negati…
…
continue reading
