In a remix of this deeply-relatable episode,, offering new insights from psychologist Dr. Anita Sanz, we profile Davey. He shares his journey of living with and managing major depressive disorder and social anxiety. Having reached out after finding solace hearing about previous guests’ journeys, Davey hopes his story resonates with listeners who feel isolated by their struggles.
Davey recounts the physical and emotional toll depression took on him, leading to a pivotal moment in 2017 when he sought help after being utterly exhausted and unable to continue. With the support of compassionate doctors and therapists, he began learning how to confront his “enemy”—a term he uses to describe depression—through research, reflection, and trial-and-error with coping mechanisms.
One of the most striking metaphors in the episode comes from Davey’s hobby of restoring vintage chainsaws. He describes how clogged components in a chainsaw mirror the mental buildup caused by depression, a vivid image that underscores the importance of addressing internal issues to regain functionality.
Davey also emphasizes the importance of “tools for time”—strategies that help him manage his condition moment by moment. These include hobbies like playing the guitar and restoring chainsaws, which provide small yet meaningful dopamine boosts and distractions from the darkness.
Throughout the episode, Davey reflects on the unhelpful advice well-meaning people often give, comparing it to offering chicken soup to someone recovering from the flu—kind intentions that cannot be digested in the moment. He highlights the value of compassionate listening and understanding over unsolicited advice.
As the episode concludes, Davey shares a message of cautious hope: while depression might not completely disappear, it is possible to live with it, build coping strategies, and find purpose through resilience and connection.
This remix of Davey’s story serves as a reminder that even when life feels broken, there is strength in seeking help, learning, and sharing one’s experiences.
