"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted, saves those whose spirit is crushed."
~ Psalm 34:19

Is it a sin to be depression?
Is depression really able to be treated and healed?
How can I help my loved one who is suffering with depression?

In the first ever episode of "This Whole Life" recorded in front of a LIVE audience, Pat is joined by Dr. Anthony Isacco to dive into the realities of depression—what it is, how it affects individuals and families, and its complex relationship with faith. The conversation explores common misconceptions, clinical symptoms, and ways to distinguish normal sadness from major depressive disorder. Listeners will find hope as Dr. Isacco shares evidence-based approaches for healing, emphasizing the power of behavioral activation, social connection, and integrated spiritual practices. Full of relatable anecdotes and practical advice, the episode stresses that depression is treatable and offers tangible steps for listeners to support themselves or loved ones. Whether you’re seeking understanding as a parent, friend, or clinician, this episode delivers empathy, science, and faith in one thoughtful package.

Anthony Isacco, PhD is program director, professor, and head of clinical research in the new MS in clinical psychology program at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. He is a licensed psychologist and is the principal of a small private practice focused on helping clergy, seminarians, and women religious live healthy, holy, and happy lives in their vocations. He is a graduate of Franciscan University of Steubenville (BA), Boston College (MA), and Loyola University of Chicago (PhD). Dr. Isacco lives in Pittsburgh, PA with his wife and four daughters.

Episode 91 Show Notes

Reflection Questions

Chapters:

0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards
11:13: Understanding depression
19:46: The relationship between depression & faith
26:36: Is it a sin to be depressed?
36:51: Suggestions for someone who is depressed
43:14: Early signs of depression
50:45: Challenge By Choice

Send us a text. We can't respond directly, but we're excited to hear what's on your mind!

Support the show

Thank you for listening, and a very special thank you to our community of supporters!

Visit us online at thiswholelifepodcast.com, and send us an email with your thoughts, questions, or ideas.

Follow us on Instagram & Facebook

Interested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for Integration

Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

What does a Wyoming girl do every time she visits the family farm?

Beth Hlabse joins us for this edition of Storytellers and a glimpse of the grandeur, quiet, and beauty of her childhood home.

Get your copy of He Leadeth Me for our Lenten book study

Let us know your thoughts on this 3-minute This Whole Life listener survey

Support the show

Thank you for listening, and a very special thank you to our community of supporters!

Visit us online at thiswholelifepodcast.com, and send us an email with your thoughts, questions, or ideas.

Follow us on Instagram & Facebook

Interested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for Integration

Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

"But a Samaritan traveler who came upon him was moved with compassion at the sight."
~ Luke 10:33

How can I better support my loved one who suffers with mental illness?
What is the Church's place in caring for those with mental illnesses?
Is it possible to choose my responses instead of just reacting?

In episode 90, Kenna & Pat welcome Beth Hlabse, program director of the Fiat Program on Faith and Mental Health at the University of Notre Dame, for an honest conversation about loving and supporting people with mental illness. Drawing on personal stories, professional expertise, and Catholic teaching, the episode explores the complexities of mental health through the lens of accompaniment, compassion, and community. Beth shares practical wisdom for churches and families, highlighting the importance of seeing the gifts and goodness of every person beyond their diagnosis, setting healthy boundaries, and moving from reactive to responsive support. Listeners are invited to reflect on their own biases and discomfort, discovering pathways to deeper empathy, hope, and belonging—especially in faith communities. Whether you’re walking this journey yourself or supporting someone you love, this episode offers encouragement and tangible steps toward stronger, more healing connections.

Beth Hlabse is the program director for the Fiat Program on Faith and Mental Health at the McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame. As a mental health counselor, Beth has provided therapeutic care for adolescents and adults with histories of trauma and adverse child experiences. Beth graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 2011 and she obtained her masters in clinical mental health counseling from Divine Mercy University. Beth and her husband Pete live in South Bend, Indiana.

Episode 90 Show Notes

Reflection Questions

Chapters:

0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards
18:40: Acknowledging my past to inform my future
29:00: Loving others in the midst of mental illness
42:07: Isolation: a cause and effect of mental illness
54:03: Healthy boundaries in relationship with others with mental illness
59:01: Challenge By Choice

Get your copy of He Leadeth Me for our Lenten book study

Let us know your thoughts on this 3-minute This Whole Life listener survey

Support the show

Thank you for listening, and a very special thank you to our community of supporters!

Visit us online at thiswholelifepodcast.com, and send us an email with your thoughts, questions, or ideas.

Follow us on Instagram & Facebook

Interested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for Integration

Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.