Giving Voice to Depression

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)

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)

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.

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.

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/

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/

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, or from wellness. But in dark times, or hours of crisis, nothing is clear. An articulate, caring and experienced mental health advocate made a list of 10 Ways to "Reach Out" When You're Struggling With Your Mental Health. We discuss his sixth through tenth suggestions in this episode.

Part one: Everyone Says Reach Out for Help, But HOW?
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2032100/14697923
Link to Sam's list:
https://letsqueerthingsup.com/2018/03/03/10-ways-to-reach-out-when-youre-struggling-with-your-mental-health/

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, it's even more complicated. An articulate, caring and experienced mental health advocate made a list of 10 Ways to "Reach Out" When You're Struggling With Your Mental Health. We discuss his first 5 suggestions in this episode.

Link to Sam's list:
https://letsqueerthingsup.com/2018/03/03/10-ways-to-reach-out-when-youre-struggling-with-your-mental-health/

"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 wasn't until he connected with others sharing their experiences that the puzzle began to fit.

Realizing he wasn't alone in his darkness shattered the misconception of personal failure or weakness. Depression, he learned, is a widespread and manageable condition. By bravely sharing his journey, John sheds light on the shadows of mental illness as other guests did for him when he needed hope and information.

Join us for 22 minutes as John shares his hard-earned insights, offering hope and understanding to those navigating similar struggles. Together, let's "carry buckets of water for those still in the fire."

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 pressures and personal revelations that led John to acknowledge his mental health struggles, challenging preconceived notions of masculinity and strength. This poignant episode offers a raw and honest exploration of one man's journey towards self-awareness and acceptance.

Links to ACEs information & tests:

https://americanspcc.org/take-the-aces-quiz/
https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/aces/index.html