Episode 33: People Pleasing: Thoughts on Depression, Mental Health, and Finding Hope in Dark Places

Were you subtly conditioned to please others at the expense of yourself? I loved talking with my friend, Dr. Monique Gadson, on today's episode of the podcast. We met through an IG Live prayer session! She's since become the best sort of real-life friend—someone whose wisdom, empathy, and realness breathes life into weary souls.

If you've struggled with depression or felt overlooked—even as you constantly show up for others—please lean in close. Dr. Monique is candid about her own journey through depression and how she lost herself in all the voices around her. In a powerful turn of events, Monique began to bring mental health directly to the center of the church, where she's practiced as a counselor for decades.

We cover so much in today's episode, including:

1. A key moment from childhood when she learned to please others
2. Monique’s experience as a PK
3. The burden of always attuning to others when you're disconnected from your own self
4. Monique’s early experience with depression and how she got help
5. Practical tips if you struggle with feeling “joy” at the holidays
6. Finding your own way as a parent amidst all of the voices
7. Monique's call to bring mental health *into* the church
8. Jesus and people pleasing
9. The power of friendship to bring hope in dark places

Check out Dr. Monique's new book with Clarence Shuler, Finding Hope in A Dark Place: Facing Loneliness, Depression, and Anxiety with the Power of Grace

If you are struggling with depression, find resources for support on my website.

Thanks to our sponsors:

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Music by Andy Luiten

Sound editing by Kelly Kramarik

While Dr. Cook is a counselor, the content of this podcast and any of the products provided by Dr. Cook are not specific counseling advice nor are they a substitute for individual counseling. The content and products provided on this podcast are for informational purposes only.