A brilliant Oxford University student's life has been shattered after what was meant to be an exhilarating skydiving experience left her battling severe depression and unable to continue her studies, according to a High Court claim.
The Jump That Changed Everything
The 21-year-old philosophy student, who cannot be named for legal reasons, alleges that a tandem skydive with Salisbury-based company GoSkydive in August 2022 triggered a dramatic decline in her mental health. Court documents reveal she claims the experience was "terrifying beyond expectation" and left her with lasting psychological trauma.
Academic Dreams Dashed
Before the fateful jump, the student was described as high-achieving and mentally robust, on track for a first-class degree from the prestigious university. However, her lawyers state that following the skydive, she developed:
- Severe depression requiring medical treatment
- An inability to concentrate on her studies
- Significant anxiety and panic attacks
- Withdrawal from social activities and university life
The deterioration was so severe that she was forced to suspend her studies entirely, putting her academic future and career prospects in jeopardy.
Legal Battle Over Duty of Care
The claim alleges that GoSkydive failed in its duty of care by not properly assessing her psychological suitability for the extreme sport. Court papers suggest the company should have:
- Conducted more thorough mental health screening
- Provided adequate warnings about potential psychological impacts
- Ensured proper informed consent regarding mental health risks
- Had better procedures for identifying vulnerable participants
"This case raises important questions about the responsibility extreme sports companies have toward participants' mental wellbeing," noted a legal expert familiar with the claim.
Company's Response
GoSkydive, which operates from Salisbury Plain, has defended its safety record and procedures. The company states that all participants undergo comprehensive briefings and sign detailed consent forms acknowledging the risks involved in skydiving.
The firm maintains that psychological reactions to skydiving are rare and unpredictable, and that they follow industry-standard safety protocols for all jumps.
Broader Implications for Extreme Sports Industry
This landmark case could have significant ramifications for the adventure tourism sector, potentially forcing operators to implement more rigorous mental health assessments alongside physical safety checks.
Mental health advocates are watching the case closely, as it addresses the often-overlooked psychological risks of extreme activities, particularly for young adults who may be more vulnerable to trauma.
The student is seeking substantial damages for personal injury, loss of earnings, and the impact on her future career prospects. The case continues as both parties prepare for what could be a precedent-setting legal battle.
