Britain’s heir to the throne, Prince William, has spoken candidly about his personal mental health strategies, revealing that he takes “a long time trying to understand my emotions” as part of maintaining emotional wellbeing.

During a panel discussion on the BBC’s youth-focused station BBC Radio 1, the 43-year-old royal emphasised the importance of self-awareness and emotional reflection. He encouraged young people — especially men — to speak openly about their struggles, stressing that “it’s OK to ask for support, ask a mate, reach out.”

Prince William’s Mental Health Advocacy
Mental health awareness has long been a signature cause for Prince William and his wife, Catherine, Princess of Wales. Through their Royal Foundation, the couple recently launched a national suicide prevention network aimed at strengthening community-based support systems across the UK.

William called for “more male role models” to normalise mental health conversations, saying that being kind to oneself is essential. “We need more male role models out there talking about it,” he said, adding that open dialogue helps make such discussions “second nature.”

His remarks come amid growing concerns about what experts describe as a “silent mental health pandemic” in England. According to the Royal College of Psychiatrists, 4.1 million people — including 1.2 million children and young people — were in contact with mental health services in 2024/25, marking a 56% rise over eight years.

Reflecting on suicide prevention, William said greater awareness and education could help reduce stigma and save lives. “Not one person in this world has all the tools for every eventuality or mental state,” he noted, comparing mental health support to building a “toolbox” of coping strategies.

His message underscores a broader push to break stigma, encourage emotional resilience, and prioritise mental wellbeing across the UK.