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McQueen died on the eve of his mother's funeral
Gay news: Designer was pressured by work and 'overwhelmed with grief'
By : John Howard
McQueen committed suicide after taking cocktail of drugs
Fashion designer Alexander McQueen hanged himself after consuming cocaine, tranquillisers and sleeping pills, an inquest has concluded.
He was facing huge pressure from work and "overwhelmed with grief" following the death of his mother, Westminster Coroner's Court heard.
The 40-year-old's body was found at his Green Park, London home on February 11, which was the eve of his mother Joyce's funeral and at the time of his final preparations for the unveiling of his spring collection in Paris.
His psychiatrist, Dr Stephen Pereira, told the inquest that McQueen had a history of depression, anxiety and insomnia and had attempted suicide before.
Coroner's officer Lynda Martindill said: "He had been particularly close to his mother and following her death had become overwhelmed with grief."
Dr Pereira added that McQueen "felt that was the one link that had gone from his life and there was very little to live for."
Coroner Dr Paul Knapman recorded a suicide verdict, concluding that McQueen had "killed himself while the balance of his mind was disturbed".
Born in the East End and the son of a taxi driver, McQueen was trained in tailoring in Savile Row, eventually making suits for Prince Charles.
In 2007, his close friend, fashion stylist Isabella Blow, who was credited with discovering him as a young designer, killed herself after being diagnosed with ovarian cancer. McQueen dedicated his 2008 Paris Fashion Week show to her.
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