The family of Shannon Horsley, a 20-year-old from Exeter, mourns her tragic death, believing it could have been prevented with better mental health support.
Shannon was found in her bedroom after a series of suicide attempts. Her loved ones believe her death could have been avoided. They feel that the mental health services failed her when she needed help the most.
She had recently moved into supported accommodation after spending time in mental health hospitals. The inquest revealed that she had a long history of emotional struggles, including self-harm and substance abuse.
On the day she died, Shannon had been assessed by mental health professionals. They decided she didn’t meet the criteria for being sectioned, which her family now questions. They believe she was in a vulnerable state and needed more support.
Her father, Stephen, expressed his heartbreak, saying, “She was a wonderful young lady. I think her death could have been prevented.” He feels that Shannon was crying out for help but wasn’t heard.
The inquest concluded that while the care Shannon received was appropriate, it was not without risks. The coroner acknowledged the family’s concerns but noted that it was speculative to say whether hospitalization would have changed the outcome.
Shannon’s story highlights the importance of mental health awareness and the need for open conversations about struggles. The DevonLive Shatter the Silence campaign aims to encourage people to reach out for help and support one another.
If you or someone you know is struggling, there are resources available. It’s crucial to talk about mental health and seek help when needed. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey.
