Episode 88: Living in the Present and Finding Hope After the Darkness of Depression, with Margo Talbot [PODCAST]

Depression, suicide, and addiction are taboo subjects – ones that are all too often brushed under the rug to avoid the discomfort many feel when they are discussed. Margo Talbot believes we must be honest about the effects of suicidal thoughts, addiction, and depression as well as the many causes. The courage with which she shares her story and her struggles have empowered her to overcome addiction and find the hope her life was missing for so long. Margo discusses the reality of depression and helps to shed light on suicidal thoughts, addiction, and the life experiences that led her there. She also shares insight into her book, “All That Glitters” and how discovering a passion for ice climbing allowed her to come out of the darkness.

The role of abuse in depression and understanding how debilitating it is.

For Margo, it’s important to share with total honesty how depression impacted her life. She shares with candor how experiencing abuse, trauma, and an unhealthy childhood can pave the way for addiction and feelings of hopelessness. Margo offers insight into what it’s like to live with Major Depressive Disorder and the overwhelming feelings of disconnection from the world that come with it. For Margo, it was difficult – and sometimes impossible – to function and even get out of bed during an episode, which is something that loved ones couldn’t understand. Her desire is to shed light on depression so others can find the support they need, when they need it most.

Living in the present and finding hope.

According to Margo feelings of hopelessness and despair caused her to contemplate suicide for many years. She also shares her belief that living in the present moment is the cure for depression and the only way to come out of the darkness. For Margo, that came when she discovered ice climbing. She describes the feelings of joy she felt and how ice climbing brought her into the present moment for the first time in many years. It was this discovery, Margo says, that paved the way for her recovery and healing.

The value of seeing yourself as something other than a victim.

As a child of abuse, Margo felt like a victim for many years. She explains how these feelings fed her addiction and depression – and even led to suicidal thoughts. Margo also shares why you must find a way to be empowered by your circumstances and leave the victim mindset behind in order to overcome depression. She also shares insight into some steps to take if you find yourself dealing with addiction, hopelessness, and despair. Margo’s advice is all about facing the reality of your situation so you can eventually heal and overcome it all.

Leaving the darkness behind.

For Margo, the journey out of the darkness and into the present moment took many years. Her hope is that her book can inspire others and guide them on the journey. Margo shares some important gifts from her book, including the value of trusting yourself and your journey. She also offers insight into the power of embracing your experience and realizing that your journey is teaching you profound lessons many people aren’t courageous enough to learn. Margo Talbot’s ability to share insight into depression, suicide, and addiction with such honesty is inspiring and enlightening. Whether you’re dealing with depression yourself or a loved one is, this conversation will help to shed light on the darkness.

Outline of this great episode

[2:26] David’s introduction and welcome to you and his guest, Margo Talbot.

[3:03] The difficulties of Margo’s journey and challenges he’s faced.

[4:06] Understanding depression as an illness.

[4:58] How to know you’re going into a depressive episode.

[6:07] Some of the causes of depression and the role of our brain chemistry.

[7:23] How Margo found hope.

[9:27] The pure joy Margo discovered when he first tried ice climbing.