Sometimes on the journey of faith one can be sidetracked by the complications that arise from depression, anxiety, trauma, or any other number of crosses which sap the spirit and trouble the mind.
Therapist and author Tommy Tighe is an expert not only in the science of mental illness, but also the substance of faith. In his book St. Dymphna's Playbook: A Catholic Guide to Finding Mental and Emotional Well-Being, Tighe offers sound advice for growing in faith while attending to mental health.
With kindness and compassion, Tighe also addresses particularly tough subjects, such as manipulative and abusive relationships, grief, and addiction. Accompanying Tighe's exposition of these topics are Scriptural reflections, saintly guides, healthy coping skills, and prayers.
Tighe also writes movingly about his own struggles following the loss of a beloved family member. His vulnerability and willingness to reveal his own wounds add greatly to the authenticity of the work.
St. Dymphna's Playbook ingeniously combines the practical with the spiritual in a self-help guide that could potentially help many, many people find the courage and the strength they need to continue on life's journey.