Doja [2008] NSWDC 69

• Adjustment disorder with chronic depressed mood caused by stress of trial and inability to attend father’s funeral in Nigeria

[31] While he has been in custody he has been examined by a respected psychiatrist, Dr Jonathon Carne, who, not surprisingly, finds that he had an adjustment disorder with depressed mood, which has become chronic. Dr Carne attributes this depressive reaction to a series of stresses, notably the trial, but also to one other factor, namely the fact that he has been on bail pending the trial and because of his bail conditions, he was unable to travel to Nigeria for the funeral of his father. He is the oldest of several children and he told both Dr Carne and the probation officer that the eldest son is expected to play a leading role in the funeral. His inability to do so has caused him distress. Clearly, he is suffering from a psychiatric condition and Dr Carne recommends that he be treated for it. I will direct that when he is returned to custody, a copy of Dr Carne’s report be provided to the Department of Corrective Services to go with him.