Heartbroken Mum of Keaton Burton urges those struggling to speak up as she opens up about her fun and caring son

The mother of a teenager who took his own life has urged others not to suffer alone in the hope she can prevent further tragedies.
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Keaton Burton died in June 2019 after leaving a ward where he was being treated for his mental health difficulties.

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Today, she has voiced her concerns others could be suffering alone, especially as the lockdown continues.

Keaton Burton with his sister Charlotte Purvis, nine, and mum Jessica Talbot.Keaton Burton with his sister Charlotte Purvis, nine, and mum Jessica Talbot.
Keaton Burton with his sister Charlotte Purvis, nine, and mum Jessica Talbot.

Keaton’s family and friends have been helped by If U Care Share, with Jessica thanking loved ones who continue to keep in touch.

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It is hoped an entertainment night can be held after the pandemic to raise funds for the charity and Sunderland Mind, while Jessica has also been helped by Sunderland Grieving Parents’ Group.

"I think there’s a lot of young people don’t ask for help from their friends and family about how they are feeling,” she said.

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"There’s a lot of stigma around mental health, but there is help out there and charities who can provide that help.

"They should find a friend or someone to have a talk to and I think this has only been compounded by the situation we are in with the coronavirus - I think things are only going to get worse.”

Jessica has described how Keaton, a former Castletown Primary and Castle View Enterprise Academy student, had a passion for cars and considered taking a music course, having found a talent for rap lyrics and a love of dance music.

Keaton Burton had experience mental health difficulties during his late teens.Keaton Burton had experience mental health difficulties during his late teens.
Keaton Burton had experience mental health difficulties during his late teens.
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He planned to travel and was also a devoted big brother to Charlotte Purvis, nine.

Jessica said: “He was really popular and had a good group of friends and he was always fun.

"He would always make others laugh and he was really kind.

"He’s a miss as a big brother and it’s been quite hard for Charlotte to understand and to explain it to her.

"He always wanted a younger sibling and now he won’t see her grow up, but she has really helped me through.”

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