Former England cricket star Graham Thorpe expressed a lack of purpose to a doctor before his tragic death on August 4 last year, despite not being considered an immediate risk, as revealed in an inquest.
The 55-year-old father had been battling anxiety and depression for several years, culminating in his untimely passing. Thorpe, an iconic figure for Surrey, had previously attempted suicide in 2022 after losing his coaching position with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).
Evidence presented at the Surrey Coroner’s Court indicated that Thorpe had missed multiple mental health appointments and confided in care coordinator Katie Johnson in June 2024 about his isolation and hopelessness. He even sought his wife Amanda’s assistance in ending his life.
Despite Thorpe’s distressing statements, consultant psychiatrist Dr. Amirthalingam Baheerathan determined that there was no immediate risk of suicidal actions and scheduled further appointments with Thorpe. Dr. Baheerathan’s last consultation with Thorpe was on March 20, 2024, 19 weeks prior to the cricketer’s passing.
Following a suicide attempt in 2022, Thorpe had been under the care of community mental health services. His mental health deteriorated after his dismissal from the ECB due to an incident involving a viral video following England’s defeat in the Ashes series.
Thorpe’s wife described his struggles during the Covid lockdown, noting his suicidal threats, loss of appetite, and desire to isolate himself completely in crisis. Assistant coroner Jonathan Stevens highlighted Thorpe’s worsening anxiety, insomnia, and overall dark state leading up to his demise.
Amanda Thorpe mentioned that her husband never fully recovered from his initial suicide attempt and in the weeks preceding his death, he expressed a desire to no longer be alive.
If you or someone you know needs support, The Samaritans is available 24/7 for confidential assistance. Contact them at 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, or visit their website for help. Remember, your well-being is important.
