Derbyshire pensioner died by suicide after mental health worsened following wife’s death

A Derbyshire pensioner took his own life after his mental health worsened following the death of his wife, an inquest heard.
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John Buswell, 79, died at his home on Addison Square, Cromford, on February 6 this year.

The retired plumber’s inquest was held at Chesterfield Coroner’s Court on Wednesday.

The inquest took place at Chesterfield Coroner's Court, which is located at Chesterfield Town Hall.The inquest took place at Chesterfield Coroner's Court, which is located at Chesterfield Town Hall.
The inquest took place at Chesterfield Coroner's Court, which is located at Chesterfield Town Hall.
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Sarah Huntbach, assistant coroner, told the inquest: “Mr Buswell was experiencing anxiety and depression and was receiving medication and support from his general practitioner.

“He had a long history of mental health issues and these had worsened since the death of his wife in June 2019 and a recent flare-up of his physical health issues for which investigations were ongoing.

“On the evidence and on the balance of probabilities, Mr Buswell undertook a deliberate act with the intention of taking his own life given the nature of the act itself and his state of mind.”

She recorded a conclusion of suicide.

Mr Buswell’s obituary described him as the ‘beloved’ husband of his late wife Christine and a ‘loving’ father and grandfather.

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It added: “He will be greatly missed by all his family and friends.”

An inquest is a public judicial inquiry to find the answers to a limited but important set of questions: who the deceased was; when and where they died; the medical cause of their death; and how they came by their death.

When life is difficult, Samaritans are here – day or night, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123 or email [email protected]. Visit www.samaritans.org for more information.

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