A SOUTHAMPTON man who was cleared by a psychiatrist following a suicide attempt took his own life in similar circumstances just seven days later, an inquest heard.

Derek Hampton was found dead by his son Aaron on October 19 last year after relatives became concerned for his welfare.

Winchester Coroner’s Court heard how the painter and decorator, of Adey Close, Sholing, was having marital problems after his wife Kim found out about his secret cocaine addiction. 

She said in a statement that the addiction was a result of Derek's mother’s death three years ago.

In the statement she said that the death of his mother had “cut him deep”.

Following a row on October 10, which saw Mrs Hampton leave the house, her husband took a prescription drug overdose as, according to psychiatrist Dr Anne Abe, “he did not want to be there anymore”. 

He was taken to Southampton General Hospital and put into an induced coma.

His son Aaron told the court in a statement that Mr Hampton had admitted taking 96 pills that night.

Following hospital treatment, Mr Hampton saw Dr Abe, who told the court she thought the overdose was an impulsive decision.

She added that she believed Mr Hampton mentally fit and stable.

“His death was a shock,” the doctor added.

“He showed a willingness to seek help.

“He was very positive whilst in hospital. He said he had a phone call and it was all going to be fine.

“He did not think he needed anymore help because there was going to be a positive resolution (of the previous events) when he got home.”

However, the 49-year-old was found dead seven days later at his home.

Senior coroner Grahame Short said: “I think it would be fair to say that he could not live with (his wife), but could not live without her either.”

He recorded a conclusion of suicide caused by a mixed drugs overdose.