Artist News

Tinnitus contributed to suicide of Inspiral Carpets’ Craig Gill, says wife

By Andy Malt | Published on Monday 8 May 2017

The wife of Inspiral Carpets drummer Craig Gill has said that she believes that tinnitus lead to a downturn in his mental health, which resulted in him taking his own life last year.

Speaking at her husband’s inquest, Rose Marie Gill said that she had discovered the drummer’s body after returning home from a day out with their children. She added that his death had come without warning, and that he had not outwardly displayed any signs of depression or suicidal thoughts.

Gill left no explanation for his decision, but his wife explained after the hearing: “For the past 20 years, Craig suffered from debilitating tinnitus, a condition caused by not protecting his hearing when enjoying the careers he loved the most – a successful musician, DJ and love of listening to music. His condition affected his day-to-day wellbeing and he suffered in silence with both sleep deprivation and anxiety”.

She added that his tinnitus had become “so unbearable he felt there was no cure” and “instead of reaching out, on that day in November, Craig made the saddest and most tragic of decisions”.

Concluding, she said: “Although we struggle with the day-to-day existence of life without Craig, we are now able to discuss and promote awareness of tinnitus and men’s mental health. It takes courage for men to speak out, to talk to one another, to share their thoughts and their fears. If you are one of those men, like Craig, we urge you to reach out to those you love and find comfort in sharing your pain”.

The inquest recorded an open verdict.

For more information on tinnitus, contact the British Tinnitus Association. Male suicide prevention charity CALM also offers further support.