Welcome to the Choosing Happy Podcast. This episode features a deeply engaging conversation with Carrie McGovern, an author whose journey through mental health challenges has shaped her writing and worldview.

As she shares her story, listeners are taken on a transformative journey that began in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic when Carrie found herself overwhelmed by anxiety and the pressures of parenting. Her children’s struggles with school and mental health mirrored her own, leading to a period of introspection where she realized the necessity of prioritizing her own well-being.

This realization ignited a passion for reading, which soon blossomed into a desire to write, allowing her to channel her experiences into contemporary romance novels that resonate with themes of strength and resilience.

Carrie's insights into the therapeutic nature of writing and reading are woven throughout the episode, highlighting how narratives can serve as powerful tools for healing. She discusses the importance of acknowledging one’s struggles and the role of communication in fostering understanding among family members.

The conversation touches on the societal stigma surrounding mental health, especially for women, and emphasizes the need for supportive communities where individuals can share their experiences without fear of judgment. By the conclusion of the episode, it is evident that Carrie’s journey is a testament to the strength found in vulnerability, the importance of storytelling, and the healing power of connection, encouraging listeners to embrace their own journeys toward happiness and fulfilment.

Takeaways:

• Carrie McGovern shares her journey to writing and how it helped her overcome anxiety and mental health challenges.
• Reading played a crucial role in Carrie’s healing process, opening her up to emotions again.
• Communication is vital; Carrie emphasizes the importance of being open about struggles with loved ones.
• The small things in life, like thoughtful gestures, greatly contribute to happiness and well-being.
• Carrie highlights how society often overlooks the importance of mental health awareness and support.
• Writing strong female characters reflects Carrie’s desire to empower women and challenge societal norms.

Timestamps:

• 00:01 - Introduction to Choosing Happy Podcast
• 00:04 - Interview with Carrie McGovern: Author and Storyteller
• 00:20 - The Impact of Mental Health on Daily Life
• 04:20 - Carrie's Journey: From Anxiety to Writing
• 05:35 - The Healing Power of Reading
• 13:28 - Communication: The Key to Overcoming Struggles
• 15:55 - Building Supportive Relationships
• 30:05 - Finding Happiness in Simple Moments
• 47:58 - The Role of Community in Mental Wellbeing
• 51:50 - Conclusion and Key Takeaways

About Carrie:

Carrie is a women's fiction and contemporary romance author based in the UK. She writes relatable fiction with strong female characters. Her books have a strong emphasis on friendship and female empowerment.

Where to find her:

Carrie's Facebook page

@carriemcgovernauthor on Instagram

Carrie's Website

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrie-mcgovern-743a6527b/

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Heather Masters

Copyright 2026 Heather Masters

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Links referenced in this episode:

• choosinghappy.co.uk

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Headspace

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