In this episode, we’re joined by Carol Keegan, Clinical Nurse Specialist at St John of God University Hospital, to explore the realities of living with anxiety.

Carol breaks down the difference between everyday stress and clinical anxiety, challenges common misconceptions, and explains why anxiety isn’t always the enemy—it can sometimes be protective and even useful.

From practical coping tools like breathing techniques and self-care habits, to the role of social supports, therapy, and medication, Carol offers clear, compassionate insights that make anxiety feel less overwhelming and more manageable. Whether you’re supporting a loved one or navigating anxiety yourself, this conversation is full of reassurance, hope, and strategies you can put into practice.

THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT

Why anxiety isn’t always the enemy — and how it can sometimes help us
The difference between everyday stress and clinical anxiety
Common physical and emotional symptoms of anxiety
Practical coping tools: breathing exercises, grounding techniques, and self-care basics
How to support a loved one and challenge the myth that you can “snap out of it”

GUEST DETAILS

Carol Keegan is a Clinical Nurse Specialist at St John of God University Hospital. She works on the psychosis team as part of a multidisciplinary effort. Carol is also a registered nurse prescriber. Her experience involves providing assessment, education, and emotional support to patients and their families. She focuses on helping patients understand their anxiety and develop coping strategies.

MORE INFORMATION

To find out more about the work of the St John of God University Hospital visit stjohnofgodhospital.ie

QUOTES

Anxiety is one of our primary emotions, a basic function designed to protect us. – Carol Keegan
Everyday stress is temporary and manageable, but clinical anxiety lingers, intensifies, and interferes with daily life. – Carol Keegan
Breathing techniques are the most effective way to manage anxiety in the moment because they reset the body’s stress response. – Carol Keegan
Self-care may sound basic, but sleep, nutrition, exercise, and connection are crucial to building resilience against anxiety. – Carol Keegan
Anxiety isn’t something you can just snap out of — if people could, they absolutely would. – Carol Keegan

KEYWORDS

#AnxietyAwareness #MentalHealthMatters #CopingStrategies #SelfCare #Resilience #Wellbeing #Mindfulness #CBT #StigmaFree #Podcast