Donegal Rose, Amy Callaghan, was praised last night as she openly discussed her mental health struggles during the live RTE broadcast of the Rose of Tralee.
Taking to the stage to talk with Daithi about her battles with anxiety, peer pressure and how she got the help that was needed, Amy wowed the nation with her bravery.
The 22 year old Letterkenny girl received copious amounts of tweets and comments on social media, all praising her courage to speak about mental health, and her efforts to try and break the ‘stigma.’
“I think everyone goes through their own little blip throughout their life. I had mine, definitely. When I was going into sixth year, that Leaving Cert cycle, everything kind of just snowballed.” She said.
Amy continued: “Peer pressure as well. I was low in myself, self-confidence was at a terrible level, I was anxious.
“My mum and dad helped me a lot, they got me talking to somebody. If I even thought for a second I’d be standing on this stage, in front of all these people. I’m very proud of that.”
One Twitter user said: “Not a massive #RoseofTralee fan but well impressed to hear the #DonegalRose talking about mental health. Xx”
While another Facebook follower commented: “A great young ambassador for #Donegal who did the county proud. Also, spoke eloquently on #mentalhealth. Well done Amy Kate Callaghan #Donegalroseoftralee.”