Joannis Nestoros, professor of psychiatry from the University of Crete, went on to describe how Hogan had "heavy illusions" and schizophrenic symptoms when under pressure.

He added: "He was diagnosed with depression and his psychological condition was deteriorating with heavy illusions, symptoms 'out of reality'.

He nearly died from one of his suicide attempts."

Hogan claims he cannot remember the incident, it emerged.

He added: "He is not himself, he forgets and doesn't even remember the incident.

"He only remembers that his wife was going to take the kids and go to her mother.

"He was emotionally dependent on his wife and a family man who loved his children. His life was work and home.

"The prospect of divorce sent him crazy. When he attempted suicide he thought his son was in paradise and that he thought he was going to join him to protect him.'' He went on to explain that Hogan's last recollection of the night was having his children in his arms on the balcony.

He said: "After that, he doesn't remember. He just thought he would take them by the hand and take them to heaven.'' Hogan has been on a course of heavy medication and anti-depressants since the plunge.

He added: "He was lucky, he was well diagnosed. He has emotional baggage which made him vulnerable. It's a combination of factors that led to this.

"The situation will not reoccur, the only possibility is self-harm and suicide because of the guilt. His body did this, not his brain - he wasn't himself that night.'' The professor said Hogan's symptoms that night would occur only following provocation, adding: "His wife couldn't see this. She would react differently if she had emotional intelligence.''