Paul Flack, brother of late television presenter Caroline Flack, died by suicide on June 21, an inquest heard. The 55-year-old was found unresponsive in his garden in Norfolk, and despite efforts by neighbors and emergency services, he was pronounced dead at Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital. The incident occurred just three days after his birthday.

The inquest revealed that Paul Flack struggled with depression and was severely intoxicated at the time of his death, with a blood alcohol level nearly four times the legal driving limit. Norfolk Area Coroner Johanna Thompson recorded a narrative conclusion stating that he took his own life while under the influence of alcohol, noting that he had experienced prolonged low moods following a series of difficult life events.

Among those events were the deaths of close family members, including his sister Caroline, who took her own life six years prior, and his father Ian, who passed away in November of the previous year after a battle with dementia. Paul Flack was also reportedly affected by a decline in freelance graphic design work, which contributed to feelings of sadness and anxiety, according to his partner of 32 years, Joanna Millington.

Ms. Millington further disclosed that she had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2019 and described how these compounded pressures, combined with the effects of the COVID-19 lockdown, deeply affected Mr. Flack. She said that while there was no indication he planned to harm himself, he had increasingly experienced anxiety about going out.

Medical evidence presented during the hearing indicated Paul Flack had reported low mood to his general practitioner in August 2020 and had been prescribed antidepressants and offered counseling; however, he did not attend counseling sessions and was not taking medication at the time of his death.

In 2020, Mr. Flack posted a final message on Instagram in tribute to his sister Caroline, who died at age 40 after a widely publicized personal struggle that included losing her role as a television presenter.

The inquest highlights the continuing impact of mental health struggles compounded by personal loss and other challenges. Support services remain available for those in need, with organizations like the Samaritans offering confidential assistance.