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Inverness suicide victim was facing a 15-month wait for help


By Val Sweeney

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AN Inverness man who killed himself had been told he faced a 15-month wait to receive specialist help for mental health problems.

Craig Sutherland (30), who had struggled with depression and had tried to end his life previously, left his home in Culduthel Road in the early hours of April 9 and walked to Aultnaskiach Woods where he took his own life.

Craig Sutherland
Craig Sutherland

He left behind his heartbroken parents Alan and Sandra Sutherland, sisters Karen Howden and Allyson Sutherland and partner Rebecca Breau plus scores of friends who are questioning why and how it could have happened.

During Mental Health Awareness Week his sister Karen has spoken on behalf of the family to highlight male suicide.

Mrs Howden, a professional blogger in Devon, felt combined factors led to her brother’s suicide including a lack of available support plus pressure on young men to achieve perceived success.

Despite seeking help, he faced a 15-month wait for a one-to-one appointment at New Craigs psychiatric hospital.

“It is far too long,” she said. “I do feel angry and bitter that help was not there from the NHS.”

Full story in today's Highland News.


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