Anxiety vs. Connection

Why are anxiety levels in kids — and their parents — rising? And what if the antidote isn’t more control, but more connection? In this episode, we explore the tension between anxiety and connection, and how the very thing that soothes our fear — safe, attuned relationships — is often what feels hardest to access in anxious moments. Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply someone navigating your own nervous system, this conversation dives into: The roots of anxiety in kids (and how adults unknowingly amplify it) Why connection — to self and others — is the true medicine What “co-regulation” looks like in real life How to become a safe space, even when you're struggling too. Dr Mary O' Kane is a Lecturer in Psychology, Early Childhood Studies and Education with the Open University. Mary presents the radio show ‘Perfectly Imperfect Parenting’ on Dublin City FM. She is also a regular contributor to the Anton Savage show on Newstalk Radio, Drivetime on RTE Radio 1, and a range of other radio shows discussing a broad range of parenting issues. She gives public talks on topics related to child wellbeing, parenting, and education, and is well known for her humorous down to earth approach. Mary is the author of two books for parents, carers and educators: Perfectly Imperfect Parenting: Connection not Perfection and Anxious Children in an Anxious World: Facing Fears and Finding Brave, which reached Number 1 in the Irish Times Bestsellers List. Both are available at: www.drmaryokane.ie This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sharonfitzmaurice.substack.com