Dancing With Depression

In this episode of Dancing with Depression, Sid shares her profound journey of healing from trauma and mental health struggles, revealing that growth and hope are ongoing processes. We explore the importance of self-awareness, boundaries, and embracing the journey, no matter how challenging.   KEY TOPICS: The metaphor of healing as a journey, not a destination The role of curiosity, grace, and ope...

Discover how hypnosis can be a transformative tool for overcoming anxiety, panic, and trauma. Join Adam Turner and guest Lisa Shook as they explore personal stories, misconceptions, and the science behind subconscious healing. In this episode: Lisa shares some of her personal journey: like hitchhiking cross-country at age 15 How energy work and hypnosis became pivotal in her healing journey The im...

Main Topics: • The difference between external and internalized stigma • How stigma alters self-perception during personal crises • The role of shame and shame avoidance in mental health • The influence of societal judgments on our decisions to seek help • Strategies for discrediting stigmas and reclaiming identity In this episode: • Adam describes the moment he realized how internal stigma affect...

In this episode, Adam Turner hosts Dr. Ankur Saraiya, a psychiatrist with a comprehensive approach to mental health, to demystify how medication and lifestyle factors work together in treating conditions like depression and anxiety. The discussion covers treatment expectations, the role of lifestyle habits, and how to navigate coming on or off medications responsibly. Main Topics Covered: The anal...

Join us in this episode as we explore the critical role of safety in personal growth, performance, and well-being. Discover how creating safe environments—physically, emotionally, and psychologically—can unlock your potential and foster resilience. In this episode: The core principle that safety is foundational for growth and thriving How safety varies from person to person and the importance of a...

In this special episode, Adam reflects on reaching the milestone of 25 episodes, sharing personal stories, lessons learned, and future plans for the podcast. This episode emphasizes the importance of authentic conversations about mental health, the power of community, and continual growth. Main Topics The journey and milestones of "Dancing with Depression" podcast The role of personal stories and...

In this episode, Adam Turner hosts Marcus Farris, the post-traumatic growth director at Mission 22, to unpack the organization’s mission to reduce veteran suicide and empower mental health recovery. We explore the origins of Mission 22, the significance of the number 22, and how veterans can find new purpose after service. Whether you're a veteran, family member, or supporter, this conversation of...

Discover how a childhood moment at Alexander Lake reveals the deep connections between early experiences and adult behaviors, especially around fear and avoidance. This episode explores vulnerability, mental health, and the importance of revisiting past traumas to better understand ourselves today.    Main Topics:  The transformative power of childhood trauma and its lasting impact How avoidance b...

In this heartfelt episode, Adam chats with Allison Paradise about her journey from achievement-driven success and societal expectations to embracing her true self. Together, they explore the roles of labels, internal struggles, childhood innocence, and the courage required to break free and live authentically. In this episode: Allison's childhood experiences with labels and societal expectations T...

In this episode of the Dancing with Depression podcast, Adam Turner speaks with Kate Weaver, the executive director of NAMI Charlotte. They discuss the mission of NAMI Charlotte, which focuses on connection, support, education, and advocacy for individuals affected by mental illness. Kate shares insights about the Resource Center, the NAMI Navigator program, and the various support groups and educ...

In this episode of the Dancing with Depression podcast, Adam Turner explores the profound impact of language on our emotional experiences and mental health. He discusses how certain words can invite scrutiny and shift focus from feelings to accuracy, particularly in relationships and self-talk. Adam emphasizes the importance of understanding our emotions and the journey of healing, highlighting th...

In this conversation, Adam Turner and Mark Franklin explore Mark's military background, the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, and the importance of mental health awareness. They discuss the significance of camaraderie in the military, leadership lessons learned, and the impact of personal experiences on growth. Mark shares insights on coping with loss and the necessity of community sup...

In this conversation, Adam Turner and Mark Franklin explore Mark's military background, the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, and the importance of mental health awareness. They discuss the significance of camaraderie in the military, leadership lessons learned, and the impact of personal experiences on growth. Mark shares insights on coping with loss and the necessity of community sup...

In this conversation, Adam Turner and Mark Franklin explore Mark's military background, the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, and the importance of mental health awareness. They discuss the significance of camaraderie in the military, leadership lessons learned, and the impact of personal experiences on growth. Mark shares insights on coping with loss and the necessity of community sup...

In this episode of the Dancing with Depression podcast, Dr. Lauren Goldstein shares her insights into the importance of psychological evaluations and assessments. With over 20 years of experience, she explains how these evaluations can provide clarity and understanding for individuals struggling with mental health issues. The conversation covers the evaluation process, common misconceptions, and t...

In this episode of the Dancing with Depression podcast, Adam Turner explores the themes of timing and perspective in the context of mental health and personal growth. He shares personal anecdotes about the challenges of inviting others to share their stories and the importance of understanding readiness in conversations. The discussion emphasizes that growth can create distance, and that healing i...

Welcome to the Dancing with Depression podcast. I'm your host, Adam Turner. If you've never been to therapy, you might not know what to expect. My only understanding of it came from watching The Sopranos. Dramatic, intense, sometimes a little scary. The truth is, it’s very different. So, it was only fitting to invite my first therapist, Giselle Schochet. Okay, before we go down memory lane, I want...

In this episode, Adam Turner shares his journey through relationships, exploring the patterns and red flags he encountered along the way. He reflects on a decade of avoiding dating, the lessons learned from his early relationships, and the role of therapy in understanding himself better. Through candid storytelling, he emphasizes the importance of awareness and self-discovery in personal growth an...

In this conversation, Katie shares her profound journey through mental health challenges, including the onset of panic attacks, her experiences with various treatments, and the impact on her family. She discusses her time at Hopeway, a treatment facility that provided her with a supportive community and various therapeutic activities. Katie emphasizes the importance of seeking help, the tools she...

In this conversation, Adam Turner and Darby Danko explore the intricacies of therapy, focusing on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). They discuss the value of group therapy, the application of therapeutic techniques, and the journey of self-discovery and healing. Darby shares insights on emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and the significance of seeki...

The Question I Couldn’t Answer begins with a routine doctor’s appointment and a simple question about family medical history—one I realized I couldn’t answer when it came to mental health. A call to my mother brought not only clarity, but unexpected details I was hearing for the first time. This episode reflects on what we inherit, what goes unspoken, and how understanding our past can shape our h...

In this episode, Adam Turner shares his personal journey of returning to work after a 60-day break due to mental health challenges. He discusses the feelings of overwhelm that led to his time off, the therapeutic processes he engaged in, and the tools he learned to manage anxiety upon his return. Adam emphasizes the importance of taking things one day at a time and acknowledges that returning to w...

Welcome back to another episode of Dancing with Depression. I'm Adam. And today I want to talk about something I never thought I would talk about. Group therapy. Or as I said at the time, group therapy. OK. So let me rewind just a little bit.   On July 22nd, I felt like I was drowning at work. Now, I'm sure we've all felt overwhelmed before. You know, that feeling of spinning your wheels, crossing...

Welcome back to another episode of Dancing With Depression. I want to start with a quick update on where I stand after several months of being off my anxiety and depression medication. I’m happy to say that some small but meaningful improvements have shown up—I’m taking more showers, and when my laundry is done drying, I actually fold it and put it away. Small wins matter. But it hasn’t all been e...

Welcome back to another episode of Dancing With Depression. Today’s conversation is one that’s deeply personal, raw, and vulnerable. We’re diving into the effects of medication —what it’s like when I’m on it, and what happened when I decided, on my own, to stop taking it. Before we begin, I want to make something very clear: these are my personal experiences. If you or someone you know is struggli...