A BOLTON man who has fought his own devils after divorce and bankruptcy is looking to give others help and support.

Harry Brooks once ran his own successful taxi firm but following his divorce the enthusiasm simply went out of his life.

For the past four years Harry, who lives in the Astley Bridge area has controlled his own depression with Prozac and now he wants to give others a helping hand through a new self-help group.

The group will be called GIRD - Group Inspiring Recovery from Depression - and will meet every Monday in Lever Chambers, Bolton, from 7-8pm.

The mission statement behind its aims and ideals is to "gird" members against life's imperfections by gathering together a group of understanding people.

The ultimate aim being to recover from depression and to help others to do so.

At the heart of the group will be a focus on individuals. There will be no health professionals guiding events.

"Rather I want the members themselves to determine where the group should go," explained Harry.

Open to people of all ages, from all backgrounds, the group will step into the gap currently left in provision.

"At present there's a group meets once a fortnight in Deajon House, but if a person can't make that meeting they then miss out on a month which, when you're depressed is a long time," added Harry.

Although there's no set agenda as to the form meetings will take, Harry hopes there will be a strong social element and is already looking to organise a trip to the town's Octagon Theatre.

Guest speakers will also be invited along to give members n opportunity to hear an outsider's view.

The next meeting of GIRD will be held on Monday, January 3. For further details of the group, which is affiliated to Depression Alliance, contact Harry on Bolton 436027.

DEPRESSION ALLIANCE is a national organisation which offers help and support to those suffering from depression, their carers and relatives.

Based at 35, Westminster Bridge road, London, SE1 7JB. telephone 0171 633 9929, it has a host of information and advice leaflets and brochures which are available nationwide.

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