Former radio presenter Christian O'Connell opens up about his experience with panic attacks and his decision to move to Australia. The conversation explores the challenges of male friendships, the impact of patriarchal expectations, embracing vulnerability, and the unique experience of his radio show and book.
Accepting and understanding anxiety can lead to a better mental state.
Mid-40s is a crucial time for reassessing and seeking new adventures.
Anxiety can offer empathy and make individuals better in various roles.
Deep dives
Understanding Panic Attacks and Making Friends with Anxiety
Christian O'Connell discusses his experience with panic attacks and the therapist's advice to make friends with them as a way to cope. Initially resistant, O'Connell eventually realized that by accepting and understanding his anxiety, he could reach a better place mentally.
Starting Afresh: Moving to Australia for Mental Health and Happiness
After a successful career in the UK, Christian O'Connell made the life-changing decision to move to Australia with his family. The move was driven by a desire to prioritize his mental health and find happiness, realizing that his mid-40s were a crucial time to reassess and seek new adventures.
The Journey to Self-Acceptance and the Gifts of Anxiety
Through therapy and self-reflection, Christian O'Connell acknowledges the gifts that anxiety has given him. He sees anxiety as a teacher, offering empathy and making him a better father, husband, and person. O'Connell emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and embracing vulnerability as crucial factors for personal growth and compassion.
Dealing with Uncertainty and the Search for Validation
Amidst the uncertainty of the modern world, the search for validation and reassurance from others remains a strong driving force behind our actions. Despite achieving success and wealth, individuals still seek validation from their parents and crave someone to tell them they are doing okay.
Breaking Apart and Finding Self-Identity
Navigating through challenging times, such as the current pandemic, has forced many to reevaluate their sense of self and embrace vulnerability. One's gut instinct and inner voice play a crucial role in staying grounded and making decisions. By breaking apart and shedding layers of preconceived identities, individuals can discover a more authentic version of themselves.
The concept of a mid-life crisis has become a funny cliché, and that’s what Christian O’Connell jokingly told people he was having when he left his successful radio career in the UK to start a new life in Australia in 2018. The truth was that he had had what he now recognises as a break down, and needed to find adventure and joy as an adult to reignite the fire in his belly.
In this chat, Fearne and Christian share their experiences of having panic attacks, and compare notes on how they both use distraction techniques to avoid confronting difficult realities.
Christian’s book, No One Listens To Your Dad’s Show, is out now.