HOUSEWIFE Anna-Marie Webster is doing something positive to help fight depression - by setting up a self-help group for other sufferers.

The 30-year-old mother-of-three, of Norby, Thirsk, has herself suffered from bouts of depression since she was a teenager.

"You get tremendous support from GPs and health people, but it can manifest itself in different ways and really knock you back," said Anna-Marie.

"The condition is not publicised enough, and is often misunderstood. But there's nothing to be afraid of once you admit you are suffering."

Although there are similar groups elsewhere in the county, she decided to set up the local self-help group once she realised that people were not in the mood to travel for help when depressed.

After taking advice from various groups and agencies, the group is now up and running, meeting every Monday from 1pm to 3pm at Thorpe House, Sowerby.

"It's somewhere where people can sit down and have a chat about things over a cup of tea for coffee," said Mrs Webster.

"We invite different speakers to come along to talk about ways of dealing with depression and the services available."

Anyone wanting further information can contact Mrs Webster on 0403 618797