In this episode of The Sober Mess Podcast, I’m joined by my longtime friend Paul Whelan, a talented singer-songwriter from Dublin. Paul opens up about his journey from the streets of Ringsend to the stage, sharing his struggles with anxiety, addiction, and how embracing sobriety has transformed his life.

Paul is also an avid sea dipper and an active member of Blue Balls Ireland, a men’s mental-health and cold-water community that has played a huge part in his recovery. Through open and heartfelt conversation, he reflects on the role of music, community connection, and cold-water therapy in helping him rebuild his life and rediscover his true self.

This episode is a powerful reminder of resilience, second chances, and the strength that comes from vulnerability, creativity, and surrounding yourself with the right people.

Find Paul on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/musicpaulwhelan

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Men’s Mental-Health Support Links

Blue Balls Ireland

https://www.instagram.com/blueballsireland

(Men’s mental health and cold-water dipping community)

HSE – Men’s Mental Health Supports (Ireland)

https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/services-support/men

SpunOut – Men’s Mental Health Supports in Ireland

https://spunout.ie/mental-health/getting-help/mental-health-supports-for-men-in-ireland

Men’s Development Network (MDN)

https://mensnetwork.ie/counselling

Men’s Health Forum in Ireland (MHFI)

https://www.mhfi.org/resources/mental-health.html