Graham Thorpe’s family praised for courage in speaking out after his death

The family of the late cricketer Graham Thorpe have been praised for their “courage in talking openly” about his mental health struggles.

The England and Wales Cricket Board announced on August 5 that Thorpe had died at the age of 55 and tributes flooded in for the sportsman.

His family have now spoken out about how he had been suffering from “major depression and anxiety” in recent years and said he took his own life.

An inquest into the cricketer’s death is due to open at Surrey Coroner’s Court in Woking on Tuesday, with the coroner having received a referral from the British Transport Police.

The force said: “Officers were called to Esher railway station at 8.26am on 4 August to reports of a casualty on the tracks.

“Paramedics also attended, however sadly a person was pronounced dead at the scene. The incident is not being treated as suspicious.”

A spokesperson for Surrey Coroner’s Office said: “We can confirm that the Coroner has received a referral for a Mr Graham Thorpe from the British Transport Police.

“A post mortem examination has been undertaken and Mr Thorpe’s body released to his family.”

The charity Mind voiced admiration for the family’s courage in being open about what happened, and the Centre for Mental Health hailed their bravery.

His widow Amanda told The Times: “Graham was renowned as someone who was very mentally strong on the field and he was in good physical health. But mental illness is a real disease and can affect anyone.

“Despite having a wife and two daughters whom he loved and who loved him, he did not get better.

“He was so unwell in recent times and he really did believe that we would be better off without him and we are devastated that he acted on that and took his own life.”

Kitty, one of his daughters, said the family is “not ashamed of talking about it”.

She told the newspaper: “There is nothing to hide and it is not a stigma.

“We were trying to help him get better before and trying to protect him, which is why we said nothing. This is the time now to share the news, however horrible it is.

“We’ve wanted to be able to talk and share and we’d now like to raise awareness too.”

Jennifer Walters, executive director of social change at Mind, said: “We are deeply saddened at Graham’s passing and extend our heartfelt condolences to his family.

“We admire their courage in talking openly about his mental health experiences, something so important if we are to increase awareness around mental health problems and reduce stigma.

“Too often, feelings of shame and isolation prevent individuals affected by mental health problems from receiving the help and support they need and deserve.

“Although attitudes have been improving, those who speak out still face discrimination in many areas of their lives, including at work, with family and friends, and in even in the healthcare system.

“It’s encouraging to see broader public perceptions of mental health improving, but it’s crucial for all of us to continue working towards reducing stigma and discrimination.’

Andy Bell, chief executive at Centre for Mental Health, said: “Our deepest condolences are with Graham Thorpe’s family and friends in the wake of his tragic death.

“Every suicide death leaves a devastating mark on the lives of those who loved that person and are left behind.

“The Thorpe family’s brave comments are a reminder of the profound impact that mental health difficulties can have on someone’s life and the lives of those around them.

“We know that openness about mental health gives people the strength to seek support when they need it. We thank Graham’s family for their courage in speaking out and sharing their experience to help others.”

Julie Bentley, Samaritans chief executive, said: “Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy and unfortunately we know that one in five people will struggle with suicidal thoughts in their lifetimes, but many people face this struggle in silence.

“It’s really important to have open and honest conversations about the topic of suicide as we know it can save lives.

“Talking openly can help to break the stigma surrounding the subject and can encourage people who are struggling to get the vital support they need.”

Samaritans can be contacted on 116 123 or at www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/