The family of England cricket legend Graham Thorpe have been commended for their courage in speaking publicly about his mental health struggles and the circumstances of his death. Thorpe, 55, died on August 4 after being struck by a train at Esher station, with an inquest set to open at Surrey Coroner's Court.
His widow Amanda revealed that Thorpe had been suffering from major depression and anxiety, and that he took his own life. She said: “He was so unwell in recent times and he really did believe that we would be better off without him.” The couple's daughter Kitty added that the family is “not ashamed of talking about it” and hopes to raise awareness.
Mental health charities Mind and Centre for Mental Health praised the Thorpe family's openness. Mind's Jennifer Walters said: “We admire their courage in talking openly about his mental health experiences, something so important if we are to increase awareness and reduce stigma.” Andy Bell of Centre for Mental Health noted that the family's comments highlight the profound impact of mental illness.
The British Transport Police confirmed they were called to Esher railway station at 8:26 am on August 4 following reports of a casualty on the tracks. Paramedics attended but the person was pronounced dead at the scene. The incident is not being treated as suspicious.
