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 in helpful and meaningful ways.
Not knowing what to do is not an excuse to do nothing.

Link to Sam's blog post with all 11 suggestions:
https://letsqueerthingsup.com/2018/08/24/11-important-ways-my-loved-ones-supported-me-during-a-mental-health-crisis/
Links to two previous episodes with ways to reach out:
1) https://www.buzzsprout.com/2032100/14697923
2)https://www.buzzsprout.com/2032100/14697981
3) Link to free Mental Health America screenings: https://screening.mhanational.org/screening-tools/

Giving Voice to Depression

301-How to Help Someone Who's Struggling

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 someone who has struggled mightily about the things his support network has done that have helped. These tips are for the end of the spectrum when someone is nearing or in crisis.
Because we need to learn how to offer support and kindness without waiting to be asked. 


Link to Sam's blog post with all 11 suggestions:
https://letsqueerthingsup.com/2018/08/24/11-important-ways-my-loved-ones-supported-me-during-a-mental-health-crisis/
Links to two previous episodes with ways to reach out:
1) https://www.buzzsprout.com/2032100/14697923
2)https://www.buzzsprout.com/2032100/14697981
3) Link to free Mental Health America screenings: https://screening.mhanational.org/screening-tools/

302_How to Help Someone Who's Struggling- Part Two

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, offering a lifeline of understanding and empathy. Their exchange became a turning point, illuminating the power of human connection in the darkest of moments.

Through their shared journey, we witness the transformative impact of compassion and the resilience of the human spirit. Join us for "Bridging Hope," a testament to the profound difference a simple act of kindness can make.

303_Bridging Hope: The Power of Compassion

In this inspiring follow-up episode, we revisit the remarkable journey of Jonny and Neil, whose lives intersected on a bridge during a mental health crisis, altering their paths forever. Six years after their life-saving encounter, they reunite as partners in mental health advocacy, spreading a message of hope and recovery.

Jonny and Neil's reunion is a testament to the enduring power of connection and the profound impact of compassion. From the depths of despair to the forefront of advocacy, they have transformed their shared experience into a beacon of hope for others struggling with mental health challenges.

304-Bridging Hope: The Power of Compassion-Pt2

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we delve into the often-misunderstood realm of postpartum depression (PPD), a silent struggle affecting approximately one in 8 new mothers. While the birth of a baby is traditionally associated with joy and excitement, for some, it can trigger unexpected emotions, including anxiety and depression.

Hosts Dr Anita Sanz and Terry McGuire explore the nuances between the common "baby blues" experienced by most new mothers and the more profound, enduring impact of postpartum depression. From mood swings and crying spells to anxiety and sleep disturbances, the spectrum of PPD symptoms is illuminated.

Our guest Natasha Lettner candidly shares her experience after the birth of her first child, offering listeners an inside look at the fact postpartum depression, even when discussed beforehand, can get so mixed up with other post-birth life changes, that it is not immediately recognized. 

Importantly, the episode underscores the importance of seeking timely treatment, emphasizing that support and intervention can facilitate symptom management and foster crucial bonding with the newborn.

Join us as we shed light on this often overlooked but significant aspect of the postpartum experience, offering hope and understanding to those navigating the shadows of postpartum depression.

This episode was produced in partnership with Families for Depression Awareness and made possible by a sponsorship from Sage Therapeutics and Biogen. We'll continue our discussion with Natasha next week. 


Home - Families for Depression Awareness (familyaware.org)

NEW 305 Postpartum Depression is Not Weakness or Ingratitude

This episode delves into the experiences of Natasha, a mother who shares her journey through postpartum depression (PPD). Natasha recounts her initial lack of recognition of PPD symptoms despite prior education on the topic, attributing it to the overwhelming life changes accompanying motherhood. She reflects on her reluctance to acknowledge or share her feelings, viewing them as signs of weakness, and the impact of societal expectations and family upbringing on seeking help.

Natasha emphasizes the importance of early communication and seeking support, highlighting her journey to acceptance and proactive management through therapy and self-expression. 

The 21-minute episode underscores the complexity of PPD symptoms, their relation to personal and familial history, and the need for persistent support and understanding from loved ones. 

It concludes with a caregiver tip from Families for Depression Awareness on recognizing signs of PPD and emphasizes the significance of speaking up and listening to those struggling with mental health challenges.

Postpartum Depression: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment (clevelandclinic.org)
Postpartum depression - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic
Home - Families for Depression Awareness (familyaware.org)
Families for Depression Awareness - Depression and Bipolar Test (familyaware.org)

NEW_306-Supporting Mom After Birth-Postpartum Depression - Pt. 2

"Listening is a Loving Gift We Can All Offer" delves into the profound act of listening as a powerful tool in supporting those living with depression. 

Robert, a trained and experienced "listener," shares insights from years of experience at a crisis hotline where he demonstrated the significance of genuine, empathetic listening. 

Robert discusses the dual perspective of experiencing depression and anxiety personally while working in mental health, and the lesson he's learned through both that the most impactful act is often to let someone talk without the need to provide unsolicited advice. 

Through poignant anecdotes and reflections, the episode highlights the transformative impact of offering a compassionate ear, fostering hope, and reducing stigma surrounding mental health issues. 

Tune in to discover how the simple act of listening can be a profound source of connection and support for individuals navigating the complexities of depression.

307 Listening is a Loving Gift We Can All Offer

In "When You Need to Let it Out," hosts Terry and Anita welcome guest Paula to share her journey with depression. Paula defies the stereotype of someone living with depression, appearing energetic and confident on the surface. However, she opens up about her struggles and how she came to terms with her mental health.

Paula shares her experience of growing up in various countries before settling in the US, where she discovered her depression. Despite her outwardly positive demeanor, Paula found herself battling with dark thoughts and feelings of loneliness. After reaching a breaking point, she turned to her parents for support, finding solace in prayer and eventually opening up publicly about her struggles on social media.

Through sharing her story openly, Paula found support from unexpected places and realized the power of shared experiences in overcoming depression. She discusses the importance of finding coping mechanisms that work for individuals, even if they may not be traditional methods like therapy or medication. Paula emphasizes the significance of authentic self-expression and building a supportive community to navigate mental health challenges.

Throughout the episode, Terry, Anita, and Paula provide insights into managing depression, advocating for open dialogue, self-care, and finding a supportive community. They encourage listeners to speak up about their struggles and offer support to those in need.

308_When You Have to Let it Out

If you know (or are) someone who thinks that having depression or needing professional help to manage it is a sign of weakness,
this week's 19-minute episode will tackle that misconception.
One of the toughest players in the NFL, Hall of Famer Brian Dawkins, shares that hiding and masking his depression nearly killed him.

309_Unmasking the Pain: An NFL Icon's Fight Against Depression (remix)

Depression affects more than 300,000,000  worldwide. So basically, 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. A journalist with depression pre-produces short (7-10 minute) interview segments, and then the sister co-hosts, who both live with depression, comment on the issues presented. The episodes are informative and hopeful-- and seldom depressing.  It's time to shine some light on depression's darkness! Join us.

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