Author: Patrick Muldoon

Many people struggle with their mental health, particularly young people. I believe that religion can be a positive coping tool in helping people to cope with distress in their life. In my own journey of life, and my journey of faith, I have also journeyed with mental illness. My faith has been a hugely important support in help me in living with bipolar disorder and in striving to live a happy and fulfilled life.

Recently I took part in the renowned Raheny 5 Mile Road Race, one of the most eagerly anticipated events on the Irish road racing calendar. Returning to run this race after a long hiatus renewed my motivation for running and reminded me of the goodness of people.

A recent cycle was the stimulus I needed to reflect on the past year. The beauty of the long deserted greenway at eventide with its historic railway track alongside and through the pretty stone arched bridge shone the shadows of light.

Recently I change jobs and it offered me the chance to begin again, to explore a new place and to see my life in a new perspective. My mental discipline, acquired through prayer and exercise, has reduced my rumination about past or present concerns and is helping me see how the Holy Spirit is coming to my aid.

I have never ceased to dream of more adventures in my life in the future. Pope Francis has said that “Dreams are important. They keep our view broad; they help us to embrace the horizon, to cultivate hope in every daily action.” While I realise my young adult life is firmly in the rear mirror now and that middle age will soon be approaching; I have faith and trust in God, confidence in my own abilities and the hope that there will be many more adventures to come.