AN author has spoke to pupils of a Bradford school about his experiences of addiction and depression.

Jeremy Thomas was the latest in a series of speakers to address parents, pupils and staff at Bradford Grammar School.

His talk was titled ‘How to stay sane in an insane world’ and was inspired by his own battle with bipolar disorder.

Mr Thomas co-produced the Emmy Award winning documentary ‘Stephen Fry, The Secret Life of a Manic Depressive.’

He said: “I think it’s getting better but there needs to be far more done in mental health in the NHS for young people. I think schools need to put this in the curriculum from Year 6.

“At BGS it’s great to know that they incorporate resilience, self-esteem and essential key coping strategies from a young age, subtly laying the foundations for later life.”

His talk offered a series of practical, useful and honest tips on how to stay mentally healthy and get the best out of life. He spoke about prevention being far better than the cure and encouraged using humour to help talking about such a serious subject.

Jane Chapman, Assistant Head (Pastoral) said:

“He is a compelling speaker with considerable experience and wisdom drawn from his professional and personal life.

“The feedback has been excellent.”