A popular sixth-form student killed himself just weeks after doctors increased his medication for depression and anxiety.

Joel Ingram, an 18-year-old student at JFS, carried out online research on how to kill himself, the inquest was told. His body was found by his father on April 24 this year.

He had been suffering from depression and anxiety for about a year, but had recently been improving and becoming more “sociable outside school”, North London Coroner’s Court was told.

Nikesh Dattani, a GP from Millway Medical Practice in Mill Hill, north London, had seen the teenager a few weeks before, on March 20, and prescribed medication.

Dr Dattani said: “He was moving forward. He was slowly becoming more sociable outside the school. 

“At school he was a popular young man, involved in the football team.”

But the GP added: “We agreed to increase the dose. I warned him about the side-effects of increasing doses.

“He was to start the increased dose the following day. Mr Ingram denied any thoughts of suicide.”

Dr Dattani saw Mr Ingram for a follow-up consultation on April 3.

In a statement, he said: “We talked about how the increased dose of medication had helped further. His mood and anxiety had significantly improved. 

“He has no thoughts of self-harm, and no recent suicidal thoughts whatsoever. We talked about the future.

“Mr Ingram maintained good eye contact, and seemed open, engaged and honest.”

Dr Dattani went on holiday and was due to see Mr Ingram for a follow-up on April 28, but returned the day before to hear the news that he had died, the inquest heard. 

Paramedic Nicola Sly described how she arrived at the house in Mill Hill, north London at about 6.45pm. Mr Ingram was pronounced dead at 6.50pm.

Coroner Andrew Walker recorded a verdict of suicide. He said: “Mr Ingram had conducted research on the internet of how he might end his life, but had left no note.”

He added: “Mr Ingram had been suffering from a depressive illness… I can lead myself to a conclusion of suicide in this case. I am satisfied so I am sure that Joel Ingram did voluntarily do an act that brought about the end of his life."

The coroner expressed his sympathy to the family, who were not present during the hearing.