A BURY teenager who became psychotic after taking drugs and used martial arts to turn his life around is hoping to set an example to others.

Harry Stott, aged 18, was admitted to hospital for several months after drug-taking caused him to suffer from severe mental health problems.

He said his illness became so bad that he was unable to perform basic bodily tasks like washing and going to the toilet.

Crediting martial arts with helping him tackle mental health issues, Harry is now keen to promote the benefits of the discipline.

He said the activity provided him with a welcome distraction and he now wanted people to realise the positive impact it can have on emotional well-being.

The teenager has now teamed up with Fixers, a charity that gives young people a voice, to create a series of posters to spread his message.

Focussed around three main themes — empowerment, tranquillity and control — they feature inspirational quotes and conclude by urging others to “discover what martial arts can do for you”.

Harry, who now trains in martial arts for between 11 and 12 hours a week, admitted: "I spent too long wasting my energy on drugs and a lifestyle which brought me great confusion and unhappiness. I used to take drugs and go wild. It got more intense and I lost control. I was psychotic and I was admitted to hospital. It took me two long stays there before I realised something had to change.

"Through martial arts and meditation, I am now free from the delusions of that old lifestyle. I don’t drink, I don’t smoke and I don’t do any drugs. I want people to know that if you train in martial arts that you can utilise that to help you in any aspect of life.

"I want others to see my story as an example that can help them. I want to be positive, inspire people and keep them excited about life.," he added.

Dr Elliot Cohen, chartered psychologist at Leeds Beckett University and black belt martial arts instructor, said: “I think there is good evidence to demonstrate a relationship between practising a martial art and having more focus to manage some emotional states with a little bit more creativity”.

* Fixers helps young people across the UK to campaign on issues that matter to them. For more information: visit www.fixers.org.uk