In this deeply moving episode of Warriors Unmasked, Chuck Thuss welcomes two extraordinary guests, Terry McGuire and Dr. Anita Sanz, for a powerful discussion about mental health, resilience, and the importance of giving a voice to depression.

Terry, an award-winning journalist and co-host of the Giving Voice to Depression podcast, shares her lived experience with depression and how it led her to create a platform that has reached millions. Dr. Anita Sanz, a licensed psychologist with over 25 years of experience, opens up about her own challenges with chronic illness and neurodivergence, explaining how these experiences shape her work and advocacy.

Together, they offer insight into the often misunderstood nature of mental health struggles, the power of vulnerability, and the tools that can help individuals navigate depression, anxiety, and other emotional challenges.

Key Takeaways from the Conversation:

• Mental Health is Not Always Obvious: Terry shares how even after experiencing depression before, she didn't recognize it when it hit her hardest. She emphasizes that depression is deceptive—it convinces people they have no worth, even when they’ve overcome it before.
• The Importance of Self-Awareness & Early Warning Signs: Both Terry and Dr. Sands highlight how recognizing the early signs of mental health struggles can help prevent deeper crises. Knowing when to reach out for help is crucial.
• The Lies Depression Tells: A recurring theme in their work is the idea that depression lies. It convinces people they are alone, that they are a burden, and that nothing will get better—none of which are true.
• The Power of Vulnerability: Chuck, Terry, and Dr. Sands discuss how opening up about struggles creates a space for healing, both for the person sharing and for those listening who may be suffering in silence.
• Building a Toolbox for Mental Wellness: The guests share personal tools that help them manage their mental health, including self-compassion, mindfulness, journaling, seeking connection, and prioritizing rest.

The Mission of Giving Voice to Depression

Terry and Dr. Sanz co-host Giving Voice to Depression, a podcast that ranks in the top 1% globally and has helped countless individuals feel seen and heard. Their mission is to tell real stories of people experiencing depression and mental illness, breaking down stigma and offering hope. They remind listeners that no one is alone in their struggles and that help is available.

Listeners can tune in to Giving Voice to Depression wherever they get their podcasts or visit givingvoicetodepression.com to learn more.

You Are Not Alone

As Chuck closes out this impactful episode, he reminds listeners that if they are struggling, there is hope. Depression may try to convince you otherwise, but you are not alone, and help is available. Whether it’s reaching out to a friend, a professional, or calling a crisis helpline, taking the first step is a sign of strength.

For more resources, coaching, or to connect with Chuck, visit Warriors Unmasked.

Listen to the full episode now, and share it with someone who needs to hear this message of hope.

GUEST LINKS:

• Giving Voice to Depression | PodcasAudio 175t Series - https://givingvoicetodepression.com
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression
• Giving Voice to Depression 🎙 Podcast (@VoiceDepression) on X https://twitter.com/VoiceDepression
• https://www.instagram.com/givingvoicetodepression
• www.recovery.com

LINKS:

• www.thecompassionateconnection.com
• www.warriorsunmasked.com 
• Join Chuck’s Text Community: 251-418-7966

Episode Minute By Minute:

• 00:00 Introduction & Welcome  
• 03:12 Terry McGuire’s Mental Health Journey & Why She Started Giving Voice to Depression  
• 07:28 Dr. Anita Sands’ Experience with Neurodivergence & Chronic Illness  
• 11:45 Recognizing the Early Signs of Depression  
• 15:32 The Lies Depression Tells & How to Fight Back  
• 20:50 Why Vulnerability is a Strength in Mental Health  
• 25:17 Tools & Strategies for Managing Depression & Anxiety  
• 31:09 The Power of Storytelling in Breaking Mental Health Stigma  
• 37:21 Finding Support & Why You Are Not Alone  
• 42:14 Final Thoughts & How to Get Help  
• 45:35 Where to Find More Resources & Connect with Our Guests