NI influencer on anxiety battle and the catalyst to getting help

Cáoileánn Conway, a performance dietitian and social media personality, overcame severe anxiety and depression by accessing Lifeline, Northern Ireland’s 24/7 crisis response helpline. Her experience demonstrates how immediate, compassionate intervention and subsequent professional counseling can provide critical solutions for individuals feeling overwhelmed or unable to cope with spiraling thoughts.

How did anxiety and depression affect Cáoileánn Conway?

Starting in her teens, Conway experienced anxiety that intensified during her first year of university at age 19. She describes a transition into a combination of anxiety and depression, leaving her feeling numb yet constantly worried.

The condition manifested as constant rumination and a cycle of planning for worst-case scenarios. Conway recalls managing panic before simple interactions and feeling drained by the effort of “troubleshooting” her identity to fit different social situations.

This mental exhaustion impacted her daily life, making her reluctant to attend university, see friends, or go to football training. She describes the experience as a silent struggle, noting that during her youth, mental health was not something people spoke about or were aware of.

Did You Know? Lifeline is Northern Ireland’s crisis response helpline, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and is free of charge at 0808 808 8000.

What happens during a Lifeline crisis call?

Conway’s turning point occurred during a midnight panic attack where she felt unable to breathe. After searching Google, she contacted Lifeline, where a counselor helped her breathe and reassured her that she was safe in that moment.

According to Kathy Owens from the Public Health Agency, counselors create a calm, supportive space. Owens notes that many callers may not know exactly why they have called, which is acceptable within their compassionate approach.

For Conway, this initial contact served as a catalyst for professional help. She subsequently entered a six-week counseling programme, which she credits as the start of her recovery and the realization that she didn’t have to feel that way forever.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter observes that the transition from crisis intervention to structured counseling is critical. By moving from immediate stabilization—like the breathing exercises Conway received—to a six-week program, the process shifts from survival to sustainable management.

Why is the “mental health muscle” approach significant?

Conway now advocates for mental wellbeing through her platform, ‘Be a Better You.’ She argues that mental health must be treated with the same care and consistency as physical health.

Cáoileánn Conway – Being your true authentic self online, mental struggles and becoming a dietitian

She compares mental health to a muscle, stating that just as she trains physically five or six days a week, she must do the same for her mind. In her view, nutrition cannot be effectively acted upon if mental health is neglected.

This perspective shifts the narrative from a one-time cure to a lifelong maintenance routine. Conway emphasizes that without this consistent effort, a person could easily slip back into old patterns.

What may happen next for those seeking help?

Individuals who reach out to services like Lifeline may receive follow-up calls or short-term crisis counseling. Depending on their needs, they could be connected to other professional services to further support their recovery.

Those who engage in consistent mental health “training” may find it easier to maintain their physical health and nutrition goals. Conversely, a lack of ongoing support could potentially lead to a return of previous symptoms.

As more people share experiences like Conway’s, others who are struggling silently may be more likely to seek professional solutions rather than trying to manage feelings on their own. For more information, visit www.lifelinehelpline.info.

Frequently Asked Questions

What services does Lifeline provide?
Lifeline offers free, confidential support 24/7 to anyone in Northern Ireland feeling overwhelmed or distressed. Counselors are experienced in dealing with anxiety, depression, suicide, self-harm, abuse, and trauma.

How did the Lifeline counselor help Cáoileánn Conway during her panic attack?
The counselor helped her breathe, told her that she was safe, and provided direction on how to make the spiraling thoughts stop.

What is the ‘Be a Better You’ platform?
It is a platform used by Cáoileánn Conway to talk openly about both nutrition and mental health, emphasizing that the two are interconnected.

Do you believe mental health should be trained with the same consistency as physical fitness?