Book group aims to help depression sufferers

A BOOK group is being launched to help people who who suffer from low mood and depression.

The Self Help Book Group will start tomorrow and will meet every Tuesday for eight weeks between 6.30pm and 8.30pm at Wickersley Library.

The small, informal group sessions (of between four and 12 people) will provide a supportive environment along with the opportunity to meet other people with similar experiences.

Based on the book Overcoming Depression by Chris Williams, group members will be asked to read a chapter each week then share their experiences of putting it into practice if they wish.

Ruth Macleod, of NHS Rotherham Community Health Services, said: “Approximately one in six people experience depression in their lifetime.

“It can affect people in many ways, including feeling down or hopeless, loss of interest in things that used to be enjoyable, feeling tired all of the time, and changes in sleep and appetite.

“Evidence has shown bibliotherapy to be an effective intervention for a variety of mental health problems.

“We hope that these sessions will bring people together to share their experiences and to help them overcome their depression.”

Sessions are free and are being run by the NHS Rotherham Primary Care Mental Health Service.

They are open to anyone who is over the age of 18, living in the Rotherham area and is experiencing symptoms of low mood.

If you are interested in attending contact Ruth Macleod or Thomas Green on 01709 302630.