Rachel Mae Hannon
Singer-Songwriter

"It’s such a weird time right now, post-pandemic. We’re getting back to normal ways of socialising, but then there’s the whole energy and housing crisis… It’s understandable for people not to feel like themselves and not know why they feel off.

I do a lot of my overthinking at night. From a young age, I’ve always been an overthinker, and I’d get anxious easily. I’ve learned to manage it a bit more while getting older by taking a deep breath. That’s where ‘Breathe’ came from. Writing the song itself was a way of meditation for me – and a way of trying to manage any struggles with mental health. When I was younger, when I was anxious, I didn’t realise what it was. It was actually through my breathing that I figured it out, because sometimes mental things can turn into a physical thing. ‘Breathe’ is all about breathing deep, letting go and just trying to look after your mental health.

I’ve noticed recently that any time something emotional or impactful happens in my life, I naturally gravitate towards writing a song. I’m so lucky to have that. I do take time alone to recharge my batteries. I go for walks. I love films. It’s great escapism, watching a movie and just getting lost in it. I also talk to friends and family. Communication is key, because sometimes when you share your own battles with someone, it gives other people a push to take that leap and talk about their personal situations too."

Read more voices on mental health in the new issue of Hot Press.