Graham Thorpe's tragic struggles with mental health end in death

In the United Kingdom, Graham Thorpe, a former England cricketer, tragically took his own life on August 4, 2022, just three days after celebrating his 55th birthday. Over the years, Thorpe battled with severe depression and anxiety, which significantly impacted his well-being and quality of life. His struggles became increasingly noticeable, especially following his dismissal from the England coaching staff after a challenging Ashes series during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite being appointed as head coach for Afghanistan in March 2022, his mental health deteriorated, leading to a first suicide attempt in May and ultimately his tragic death. Thorpe's wife, Amanda, spoke at an inquest, revealing that he expressed his desire to leave this world, leaving his family in turmoil. Amanda and their family feel a mix of grief and the desire to honor Thorpe's memory while raising awareness for mental health issues. They plan to commemorate him during the second day of the England-India Test at The Kia Oval, calling it 'A Day for Thorpey.' This event aims to celebrate his life and raise funds for mental health charity Mind, showing support for families and individuals coping with similar struggles. Products like headbands, which Thorpe famously wore while playing, will be sold to further fund mental health initiatives. Amanda expressed her determination to remember her husband not just for his struggles but also for the joyous times they shared. The family hopes that their efforts will help others who might be facing mental health challenges, making the cricket community and beyond aware of the importance of mental wellness. Their message focuses on compassion, understanding, and the need for open conversations about mental health. As they share their story, the family has encouraged the cricket community to connect through mental health initiatives. They plan to rename a cricket support initiative called ‘Bat and Chat’ to ‘Thorpey’s Bat and Chat,’ aiming to reach more people in need and foster discussions about mental health in a supportive environment. They hope that by raising awareness and funds, they can prevent similar tragedies and provide resources for those struggling with mental health issues.