Breaking The Mask of Depression

Mentally Ill and Lonely (Throwback Episode)

If "Loneliness is A Sad Affair" resonated with you, listen to this throwback episode: Mentally Ill & Lonely. 

Loneliness Is a Sad Affair

In this episode of "Breaking the Mask of Depression," host "the diva with depression" returns after a hiatus to share her personal struggles with depression, grief, health issues, and profound loneliness experienced in 2025. She emphasizes that her podcast is based on lived experience, not medical advice. The episode explores the serious mental and physical health impacts of loneliness, drawing from both personal anecdotes and research, and offers practical suggestions for coping, such as joining groups, volunteering, and seeking therapy, while encouraging listeners to acknowledge and address their own feelings of isolation.

Mental Illness and the Homeless Crisis (Rebroadcast)

Mental Illness and the Homeless Crisis

In this episode of "Breaking the Mask of Depression," host Diva with Depression welcomes back Akosua, who shares her powerful story about living with mental illness while being homeless.
Akosua discusses caring for a mentally ill parent, who also happens to be a veteran, navigating inadequate support systems, and the realities of living without stable housing.
The conversation challenges stereotypes about homelessness and mental health, highlights systemic barriers, and emphasizes resilience, resourcefulness, and the importance of sharing honest stories to help others in similar situations. The episode also features practical advice for those facing homelessness and mental health challenges.
Source:
MENTAL ILLNESS AND THE HOMELESS CRISIS:
https://www.podbean.com/eau/pb-heqjm-199c05d

Akusua Akoto (Rebroadcast)

Akusua Akoto: Spoken Word Performer, Graphic Artist, and Poet.

What Is Grief 1 & 2

ZTsda4kcatGAj6MxYoMA

What is Grief 2

Hey Maskers!!
In this episode of "Breaking the Mask of Depression, The Diva with Depression explores the many forms of grief beyond physical loss, such as empty nest syndrome, divorce, chronic illness, job loss, and loss of identity. She emphasizes that all grief is valid and can deeply impact mental health, sometimes leading to depression.
The Diva encourages listeners to acknowledge their feelings, seek support, and connect with resources like GriefShare.
As always, she stresses the importance of open conversations about grief and reminds listeners they are not alone on their journey toward healing.
Source:
WHAT IS GRIEF: PART 2
https://www.podbean.com/eau/pb-5dtmb-1979fe4
https://pod.link/1572740143
grief, depression, mental health, intangible losses, empty nest syndrome, divorce, chronic illness, fertility issues, disabled child, loss of a pet, loss of a first love, job loss, loss of faith, loss of identity, support groups, GriefShare, coping mechanisms, emotional support, personal experience, healing, self-esteem, community resources, mental health stigma, grief stages, mourning, personal stories, valid feelings, hope, resilience, mental well-being, coping strategies, life changes, emotional struggles, loss of connection, support systems, mental health discussions, breaking the silence, podcast, Diva with Depression, personal journey, encouragement, self-care, community support.

Permission to Exhale w/Shirria McCullough

Hey Maskers!!
In this episode of "Breaking the Mask of Depression, The Diva with Depression welcomes licensed clinical social worker Sherri’s McCullough. https://www.instagram.com/mentalwellnessccs?igsh=b3RtMWRteHFtaHNy
They discuss the unique mental health challenges faced by Black women and Gen Z’s in the Black community, including identity, trauma, and the pressures of the "superwoman" role.
Shirria shares her culturally sensitive, individualized approach to therapy, emphasizing self-discovery, boundary-setting, and empowerment. The conversation also touches on generational differences, the importance of representation in therapy, and practical self-care.
Shirria offers resources and advice for those seeking healing and balance in their lives.
Source:
PERMISSION TO EXHALE W/SHIRRIA MCCULLOUGH:
https://www.podbean.com/eau/pb-9ac95-196ee6d
https://pod.link/1572740143
mental health, depression, anxiety, Black women, Gen Z, people of color, culturally sensitive therapy, multi-generational trauma, identity issues, motherhood, marriage, self-care, boundaries, toxic relationships, therapy, licensed clinical social worker, Sheria McCullough, millennial Black women, life transitions, adulthood, cultural challenges, Black therapists, superwoman syndrome, empowerment, healing, self-discovery, CBT, DBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, family systems therapy, therapeutic relationship, COVID-19 pandemic, social awareness, emotional health, self-care workbook, ambitious Black mom, virtual therapy, North Carolina, South Carolina, Maryland, Virginia, mental wellness, self-identity, personal growth, trauma-informed care, setting boundaries, communication skills, mental load, health advocacy, cultural context, boundary-setting, emotional validation, self-empowerment, coping strategies, self-reflection, personal development, mental health stigma, therapeutic advice, mindfulness, emotional intelligence, self-acceptance, identity exploration, support systems.