In this episode, we’re joined by Mark Lawry, a former lawyer and long-time stay-at-home dad, who offers a frank and considered account of what it’s like to live with depressive illness across much of adult life. Mark brings a calm, articulate perspective to a subject often misrepresented or oversimplified.

He speaks plainly about how symptoms first appeared, why he delayed seeking help, and what it means to maintain a functioning exterior while privately struggling. We explore the difficulty of recognising depressive illness when it has no obvious trigger, the reality of managing something that may never fully go away. And the limits of language including the inadequacy of the term “depression” and why “depressive brain malfunction” may be a more accurate description.

Mark also reflects on medication, therapy, and how leaving behind a professional identity in favour of something more sustainable helped reduce the frequency of episodes. This is not a dramatic story of crisis and recovery, but a steady, honest account of what it means to live with a chronic mental health condition and how important it is for men to talk about it.

NOTE: If you think you may be suffering from depressive illness and/or relate to Mark's experience, the advice is to speak to your GP or other medical professional.