Natania was let down by the system

Natania was let down by the system

2 April 2014

THE devastated family of a Killyleagh woman who took her own life after battling anxiety and depression have called for better mental health care services

Natania Hagen, a talented musician, died close to where she lived along the Killyleagh shore in January. She was just 27 years-old.

Her sister Lorna McCormick explained they were simply echoing Natania’s views on the health service, which she strongly felt had let her down.

Despite suffering mental ill health from the age of 14, Natania had only recently been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. There had been a number of short-term solutions over the years but the long-term specialist treatment she was on a waiting list for was up to a year away.

“We want to get Natania’s voice out there very strongly,” said Lorna. “She was intelligent, so highly intelligent she knew the system was wrong.

“It was the waiting lists. You need the help there and then, not six months down the line.

“Natania was doing everything in her power to help herself.”

Despite their devastation Natania’s family want something positive to come from her death, including a better support system for the mentally ill and the stigma surrounding suicide removed. They also hope to encourage more people to speak openly about depression and anxiety.

“They may feel embarrassed, but the more people talk about it the less suicide we will have,” said Lorna.