Majella O’Donnell has been open about her long-standing struggle with depression, and during the pandemic, she found solace in spending time at home with her husband, Daniel O’Donnell. Despite the challenges of lockdown, Majella found herself feeling surprisingly at peace, partly due to the calm environment at home and the time she got to spend with Daniel, who is often away touring.
In an interview with RSVP Live, Majella reflected on how the pandemic allowed her to slow down and enjoy a more solitary lifestyle, which she finds comforting. “We’re very lucky because where we are here, we have a lovely garden and space around the house, so we spent a lot of time outside, particularly during the good weather,” Majella explained. “I’m blessed to have that. I didn’t find it too bad because I’m kind of a solitary person anyway. I enjoy my own company. If things are too hectic all around me, I feel that.”
The sense of calm during the lockdown, though unconventional, actually helped Majella feel better. She acknowledged that while the situation was challenging for many, particularly younger people struggling with isolation and relationships, the quietness of the pandemic’s restrictions did not negatively affect her mental health. “There were times when it felt like the whole world was so calm, if you like. In a way, that actually made me feel better,” she shared, reflecting on the peacefulness of her home life during those months.
For Majella, who runs a mental health charity, Donegal Wellness, and advocates for mental health awareness, this time allowed her to take care of herself both mentally and physically. “It’s harder for younger people — teenagers and those in their 20s, going out and meeting people, trying to form relationships,” she said. “I’m married, have my home, and my husband. I enjoyed having Daniel home, which was unusual.”
Majella has learned to manage her depression better over the years. “I’ve had the condition for a very long time and I’m very used to it now,” she said. Her approach to managing her mental health involves recognizing when she needs help and taking time for self-care. She explained that if she feels herself “going down,” whether due to being overtired or stressed, she knows to seek help and prioritize rest. She emphasized the importance of not taking on too much and staying physically active with walks, which help her manage the condition.
Majella’s transparency about her struggles with depression and how she copes with them offers an important message of hope for others facing similar challenges. Her experience highlights the value of self-awareness, self-care, and finding support systems that work for one’s personal mental health journey.