A PATIENT hanged himself while being cared for at a Hampshire hospital, a coroner has ruled.

John Hunt took his own life after suffering with mental health problems for many years while at the Uplands Hospital in Fareham.

He was found hanged by staff on their morning checks of his room on July 7 this year and police formally recorded his death at 7.22am.

The 59-year-old, previously of Fawcett Road, Southsea, had been diagnosed with a personality disorder, psychotic symptoms and paranoia, but also had a history of alcohol and drug abuse.

He had attempted to take his own life on several other occasions.

An inquest in Portsmouth into his death heard staff at the independent hospital, in Park Lane, which provides services for adults with mental health issues, had in fact thought his mental health was improving in the lead up to his death.

His demeanour on collecting his medication the night before had not given any cause for concern, the inquest heard.

Police attended the scene but concluded there was no foul play or third party involved and that it was a non-suspicious death.

They also found a goodbye card in Mr Hunt's room to his girlfriend.

David Horsley, coroner for Portsmouth and South East Hampshire, ruled that Mr Hunt had taken his own life while suffering from a long term psychiatric illness.

He added: “He probably was unhappy, but being a private person he didn't express it and sadly it hasn't been picked up.

“On the evidence it's quite clear what he intended to do.

“I don't think this was a cry for help or a gesture. I think he has intended to do what he's done because he's felt deeply unhappy.”