A 'courageous' young photographer and videographer who struggled with mental health issues died following the consumption of prescription and recreational drugs, an inquest heard.

Eastern Daily Press: Harvey Truswell, from Norwich, who died on April 27 at his flat in Normandie Tower. Photo: Truswell family.Harvey Truswell, from Norwich, who died on April 27 at his flat in Normandie Tower. Photo: Truswell family. (Image: Archant)

Harvey Truswell had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and was receiving treatment for his condition in the years running up to his death on April 27.

The 23-year-old was discovered dead in his flat in Normandie Tower, Rouen Road, Norwich, by his girlfriend, Emma Flemming.

She went to a neighbour's house for help who then called the emergency services but Mr Truswell was already deceased when they arrived.

The inquest heard Mr Truswell's GP had referred him to the Norfolk and Suffolk Foundation Trust (NSFT) for mental health support on seven occasions between 2013 and 2017, two of which were marked urgent but downgraded to routine.

Evidence from a number of health professionals working with Mr Truswell was read detailing the complex program of care he was undergoing for his bipolar disorder.

The promising photographer, who had travelled to London to work with the band Rudimental in the weeks prior to his death, had indicated he wanted to reduce the amount of medication he was prescribed.

Dr Avijit Roy, a psychatrist who met with Mr Truswell added: 'He was a courageous young man who never faltered in the way he tried to overcome his difficulties.'

A mental health case manager, Danielle Sands, who worked with Mr Truswell said in a statement to the court: 'He was a very interesting and philosphical young man. It is a tragic loss of a beautiful person.'

Yvonne Blake, area coroner for Norfolk, said Mr Truswell's cause of death was central nervous system and respiratory depression due to multiple drug toxicity and returned a conclusion of drug-related death.

A spokesperson for NSFT said: 'We have met with Mr Truswell's family and offered our sincere condolences for their loss.

'Whilst the care provided by the trust was appropriate, we have identified points where processes can be improved and we have taken the necessary steps to ensure these improvements are implemented.'