Student took her own life after struggle with tinnitus

A TALENTED University of Portsmouth student took her own life after struggling with tinnitus.

Portsmouth Coroner’s Court heard Charlianne Vout was found hanged in her room in Harry Law Halls, in Isambard Brunel Road, on January 8 this year just before 2pm.

Her body was found by a student halls manager, who had gone to check on her after her parents were concerned they had not heard from her since January 2.

The 29-year-old pharmacy student had been suffering with tinnitus, a ringing or buzzing noise in the ears, an inquest heard.

It had affected her life and her studies, the inquest was told.

Coroner Jason Pegg said: ‘It is evident to me that Charlie was a talented and capable young lady.

‘The tinnitus was severe and it impacted significantly on her life and her studies.

‘In between January 2, the last known contact and when she was found on January 8 it is evident that Charlie got to a point… that she decided to do what she did.’

The inquest, which Ms Vout’s parents attended via videolink, heard that she had spent four years travelling in Australia.

While there she suffered a brain injury in a road incident. She had also lived in Sweden and Germany, where she mastered both languages.

Another of her achievements was cycling the 874 miles from Lands End to John o’Groats.

Mr Pegg recorded a conclusion of suicide.

For support with tinnitus, visit the British Tinnitus Association website tinnitus.org.uk or call 0800 018 0527 for support.

Call Samaritans on 116 123. The phone line is open 24 hours a day.

The university’s Student Wellbeing Service is available to offer support or counselling. Email wellbeing-admin@port. ac.uk to book a support session.

Positive Minds offer hope and support for people in Portsmouth.

Call (023) 9282 4795 Monday to Thursday between 9.30am and 4.30pm, and Friday between 9.30am and 4pm.