Deputy coroner releases findings into teen's suicide (opens original article in a new tab)

A 17-year-old from Alice Springs, RL, died by suicide in 2023, with a coroner finding he fell through the cracks of the NT's mental health system. Despite support from various professionals, his mental health declined, and he was discharged from an adult facility while still at high risk. The coroner highlighted systemic issues and made recommendations for improvement.

• Deputy Coroner Chrissy McConnel concluded RL fell through the cracks of the NT's mental health system despite support from teachers, social workers, police, and doctors.
• RL was discharged from an adult mental health unit while still considered a high suicide risk, with concerns about the lack of youth specialist-trained staff and age-appropriate care.
• The coroner made four recommendations for improving youth mental health services in the NT, including consulting the Child and Youth Team before discharging patients.