A student who was struggling with his university course took his own life, an inquest heard.

Jiaxing Shi, referred to as Justin by his family, was found dead in his flat in Brighton on New Year's Day.

An inquest into his death took place at Woodvale coroner’s court in Brighton on Friday. It heard that the 21-year-old, who was studying at the University of Sussex, had sought the help of mental health services on December 23, 2023, and said he was struggling with his university course.

Justin said he did not have suicidal thoughts but on December 25 he posted on social media “this will be my last Christmas”.

Evidence showed he had dry ice in his flat at Hillfort House, in Moulsecoomb Way, on December 29.

On January 1, staff were contacted by Justin’s family who were concerned as they had not heard from him in three days.

Staff could not get into the apartment, which is run by company Student Roost, as the door was locked from the inside and they had to use the master key.

Justin was found in his bathroom and the court was told there were a “number of notes detailing his intentions”.

Senior coroner Penelope Schofield said Justin died of deliberate inhalation of CO2 through dry ice and concluded that his death was a suicide.

Samaritans (116 123) operates a 24-hour service available every day of the year. If you prefer to write down how you’re feeling, or if you’re worried about being overheard on the phone, you can email Samaritans at jo@samaritans.org.