Prince William pens emotional message for poignant reason


The Prince of Wales has made mental health awareness and suicide prevention central pillars of his public service over the past decade


© Getty Images
1 hour ago

Prince William had a moving message for royal fans in honour of World Mental Health Day. 

The future King, 44, has made mental health awareness and central pillars of his public service over the past decade, and on Saturday, he shared a message for anyone who knows someone who might be struggling.

William wrote on Instagram: "Every day in the UK, around 20 people die by suicide. Behind every number is a person, a family and people who love them. If you’re worried about someone, reach out. 

View post on Instagram
 

The Prince continued: "Ask how they’re really doing. Listen. Let them know they’re not alone. One conversation can change everything. W."

William's work with mental health

The Prince's comments come amid his wider work on mental health, including the through his Royal Foundation.

In September, William called for to be part of the ’s “game plan” as he urged clubs, competitors and fans to help “save lives”.

: Catherine, Princess of Wales and Prince William, Prince of Wales speak about the stigma surrounding mental health sat on the Gary Speed memorial bench with the late footballer's mum, Carol© Getty Images
Catherine, Princess of Wales and Prince William, Prince of Wales speak about the stigma surrounding mental health sat on the Gary Speed memorial bench with the late footballer's mum, Carol

, the Srince launched the On Your Side toolkit, which provides practical advice on supporting people at risk of suicide in sporting environments.

The toolkit offers advice on spotting warning signs, starting a conversation with someone suspected of having mental health issues, asking direct questions like "are you thinking about suicide?", and signposting them to further support.

It also challenges the "myth" that talking about suicide encourages it, stating: “In fact, it opens up a conversation that can help someone feel heard, less alone, and more willing to seek support.

Speaking on World Suicide Prevention Day earlier this year, William said: “Prevention works when responsibility is shared. When people have the confidence to act and when organisations provide the tools, knowledge and culture that make those actions possible.

"That is what today is about. Giving people the confidence to step forward, giving organisations a practical way to make a difference, and bringing the sporting community together behind a shared purpose."

More Royalty
See more
Conversation

For more information on our conversation section, please read our Community Guidelines. Comments featured and views shared are not endorsed by HELLO!.