A Blackburn man who did not show up for a planned appointment with his mental health key worker died by suicide, an inquest heard.

Nathan Whalley, 36, was said to have been very consistent with his appointments with his key worker David Myhell, and his non-attendance was out of character.

Blackburn Town Hall heard Nathan had struggled with his mental health having been diagnosed with anxiety and depression in 2010 and later emotionally unstable personality disorder in 2018.

Mr Myehll said Nathan struggled with his emotions but was consistent with his engagement in the one-to-one appointments, invested in the treatment, and spoke honestly with him.

He said the week before Nathan’s death he had reported an improvement in his mental health which he attributed to improved sleep.

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When Nathan did not show up for his appointment on December 15, Mr Myhell was concerned and went to Nathan’s address, where he found the door unlocked but on the latch.

Emergency services were called and gained entry to the flat where Nathan’s body was found.

Charles Stewart, senior investigating officer for Lancashire Police, said when they entered the room there was a television and a PlayStation still switched on, suggesting it had not been long since Nathan took his life.

Mr Stewart said there were no suspicious circumstances or evidence of third-party involvement in Nathan’s death.

Coroner Sian Jones said: “Nathan was a man with an established long-term history of mental health problems. Subsequent to that, he had been engaging very regularly with the community mental health team and his medication had been reduced and changed.

“He sought to take the advice of the services offered to him and was in very regular contact with his key worker.

“On December 15 he didn’t attend his session and that was exceptionally unusual for Nathan, such that his key worker, who was clearly a very dedicated practitioner and knew Nathan well, was immediately concerned.”

Ms Jones confirmed a conclusion of suicide by hanging.

If you are struggling with your mental health, contact Samaritans on 116 123.