What if depression isn’t a personal failure—or even a single diagnosis—but a message from the body, the nervous system, and the life you’re living?
In this episode of The Vital Spirit Podcast, I share one of the most personal and important conversations of my career. Drawing from my clinical work, my background in psychology and naturopathic medicine, and my own lived experience with depression—especially through perimenopause—this episode is about redefining what depression actually is…and what it isn’t.
In this episode, we cover:
- 01:03 Why this episode matters to me, both personally and professionally
- 01:58 Redefining depression: what it truly is (and what it’s not)
- 02:49 An important safety note and how to think about suicidal thoughts with clarity and care
- 06:33 What depression can actually feel like in the body, especially in midlife
- 16:17 The clinical lens: diagnoses, labels, and where they fall short
- 22:45 Why depression is almost always multifactorial (body, mind, and environment)
- 32:21 Real patient examples that show how different root causes can look the same on the surface
Links and resources:
Connect with Dr. Kelly:
Website: drkellylivingston.com
Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com
Instagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/
Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine
YouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingston
Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.
Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.
If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.
Disclaimer:
The information shared on The Vital Spirit Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content reflects the opinions and experiences of Dr. Kelly Livingston, ND, and her guests, and is not a substitute for personalized care from a licensed healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor or qualified health professional before making changes to your diet, supplement routine, lifestyle, or medical treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.
