EXPERT EPISODE: Owen O'Kane on why anxiety feels addictive

In this engaging episode, Owen O'Kane, a psychotherapist, former palliative care specialist, and ex-NHS clinical lead for mental health, shares his professional journey and deeply personal story. He reflects on his transition from nursing in palliative care to training as a psychotherapist, a shift inspired by witnessing the profound psychological distress many patients faced. Owen also opens up about his upbringing in Northern Ireland during the Troubles and the personal struggles of coming out as gay in a Catholic family. He highlights how his lived experiences shape his therapeutic approach, emphasising the power of empathy, trauma awareness, and emotional resilience in mental health care. Drawing from his latest book, Addicted to Anxiety, Owen introduces the concept that anxiety can function like an addiction, offering a false sense of safety while keeping individuals trapped in cycles of fear. He discusses practical strategies for managing anxiety, including learning to acknowledge, accept, and even befriend the anxious self rather than resisting it. His insights provide a fresh and compassionate perspective on understanding anxiety, helping listeners develop greater self-awareness and healthier coping mechanisms to break free from its grip. Buy Owen's new book, 'Addicted to Anxiety': https://amzn.eu/d/cxRKYCD Follow Owen: @owenokaneten Please subscribe and leave a review—it truly makes all the difference! Follow Julia at @juliasamuelmbe for more insights, tips, and conversations on life's challenges and how to improve your mental well-being. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices