A PHOTOGRAPHIC exhibition has opened which charts the highs and lows of a group of male mental health sufferers.

Snappy Encounters is a group of men who have suffered mental health issues and whose photographs portray people and places that have some personal significance.

The exhibition, backed by Helena, is currently on the first floor of the Citadel and runs until the end of June.

Malcolm Murray, 64, from Sutton Manor is one of those whose photos are on display. "Because of my illness I was in a bad place. I had a carer who introduced me to the group. I was a care worker and a volunteer for 40 years. But I was getting more and more down. But this group has really helped me and given me something to look forward to. I am getting better because of this group. I'm not sure how much I could cope without them. I don't consider myself to be artistic although I have had pictures exhibited in London before."

The grandfather said exhibitions like this are important in breaking down barriers over mental health in men. He admitted he still struggles to come to terms with the fact he has mental health issues. "I kept saying to myself I can't be ill because it's not like having a broken leg. But I felt like my body had been coiled and was starting to unravel."

Chris Charles who alongside fellow artist Rachel Scott led the project explained: "Over the last eight to nine weeks the group has explored what represents them as a group and individuals. What's good about photography is the instant impact. And people can interpret things in a different way. Groups like this are important because men are very good at getting to a point in crisis before they ask for help. groups like this allow people to have conversations they may not normally have."

Neil Morris Community Health Development worker at Helena said: "Helena got involved as part of our work within neighbourhoods in a bid to raise awareness of mental health issues. We are helping to break down the stigma over mental health. This allows them to discuss issues important to them and we able to signpost them to the best services out there. And our Helena Community Fund helped finance the project."