A renowned boxing gym has hosted a professor of psychology to give attendees key insights into mental health and wellbeing.
Bolton born Dr Mark Durkin is the latest of several speakers to be invited to the Halliwell based Elite Community Hub CIC.
His talk focused on the science behind wellbeing and the importance of good mental health, informed by his own background and research.
Dr Durkin, who still lives in the town, said: "This journey has been particularly meaningful as I left school with only one GCSE in art.
“In 2016, while completing my Master’s, I was invited to speak at TEDx University of Bolton, where I gave a talk titled Agents of Compassion, sharing my personal experiences and insights into compassion."
Dr Durkin’s appearance at the Wordsworth Street based Elite Community Hub marks another step forward for the boxing club and community organisation.
Dr Durkin earned a first-class honours BSc in Counselling and Psychology an MSc in Psychology with distinction, and a PhD in Psychology from the University of Bolton.
His research at the Deane Road based university focused on cultivating compassion in nursing students.
As a lecturer in psychology his experience also includes working for Bolton based mental health charity MhIST.
He has also published a range of research papers on compassion, positive psychology, and mental health.
Dr Durkin is the author of two books, the first being Developing your Compassion Strengths: A Guide for Healthcare Students and Practitioners.
His second book is titled The COMPASS Model in Criminal and Forensic Psychology.
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Dr Durkin’s free seminar is called Positive Mental Health and Wellbeing: A Path to Flourishing, is open to all and will take place on Tuesday, November 19, from 7.30 to 9pm.
Organisers say highlights will include practical insights and strategies for promoting positive mental health and wellbeing, fostering resilience and cultivating a more meaningful life.
The activities are are designed to help attendees to build skills for enhancing mental health, fostering self-compassion, boosting overall wellbeing, and achieving a flourishing life.
The presentation is informed by Dr Durkin's academic background in psychology and personal experiences overcoming challenges.
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