Man’s body found at foot of Eastbourne cliffs

Benjamin Adam had struggled with his mental health throughout his life, the hearing at Eastbourne Town Hall heard.

The 31-year-old, from Abbey Road in Torquay, Devon, was believed to have bipolar disorder as well as depression and anxiety.

A statement from his mother read at the inquest said, “He was a very sensitive, kind person. His interests were reading, writing his blog, and walking.

“When his father died in 2017 I feel his mental health took a turn for the worse.”

The youngest of seven children, Benjamin lived most of his life with his mother, part from going to university and a spell picking fruit in Kent – the only job he had ever had.

He had also travelled around Europe for some time and turned to meditation, Buddhism, and veganism, his mother said.

In March this year, the inquest heard Ben had called family members telling them he was at Beachy Head and intended to take his own life.

His body was found by a member of the public at the foot of the cliffs on March 23.

Assistant coroner James Healy-Pratt said, “I’m satisfied on a balance that Benjamin took his own life and he intended to do so.

“Clearly he had some mental health issues. They were known to his GP and mental health services, but apparently he said he didn’t need further help when he was in telephone contact with his GP days before.

“That puts medical professionals in a difficult position. A very sad case.”

He concluded Mr Adam had taken his own life and expressed his condolences to the family.

• If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, the Samaritans may be able to help – the charity’s helpline number is 116 123.