Meghan Markle Reveals Why She Decided to Share Her Mental Health Struggles With the World

Last night at the Ripple of Hope Gala, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were honored for their "willingness to speak up and change the narrative on racial justice and mental health around the world," according to Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights president Kerry Kennedy.

At the event, the royal couple were in conversation with Kennedy herself, talking about their work. While he accepted the award, Prince Harry said, "We understand this honor, not about the culmination of a life's work, but instead and in many ways for us, a beginning." He added, "Bobby Kennedy said: ‘Each time a man stands up for an ideal or acts to improve the lot of others or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope."

During their conversation with Kennedy, Prince Harry and Meghan opened up about why they have been so forthcoming on talking about their mental health.

Meghan, in particular, was asked about her decision to open up about her suicidal ideation in her interview with Oprah. "I don't want anyone to feel alone," the Duchess said.

"Look, I was really ashamed to say it at the time and ashamed to have to admit it to Harry especially, because I know how much loss he has suffered, but I knew that if I didn't say it, then I would do it. I just didn't want to be alive anymore," she said. "But ultimately, if you feel like there's someone else that has a lived experience. they've gotten to the other side, and gave an example of resilience, an example of 'there is a happy ending', I think that's what most people are probably seeking out in those moments. That's why I made the decision to just say 'if my experience can help someone else not feel the same way or to know that there's hope then it's worth every second of whatever comes with it.'"

In addition, Prince Harry talked about how everyone is dealing with their own trauma. "Ninety nine percent of people on planet earth are dealing with some form of trauma, loss or pain even more so since 2020," the Duke of Sussex said. "But you’ve got to lead from the front – society as we know is not made up to encourage vulnerability. We collectively can heal together if we share our stories."

The conversation wasn't all heavy; Prince Harry also joked that it's nice to "share date night" with all the gala attendees, saying "we don't get out much because our kids are so young."

It was their first appearance since the trailer for their six episode Netflix docuseries, Haryr & Meghan, dropped. The first three episodes premiere tomorrow.

You Might Also Like

• Oprah’s Favorite Things of 2022 Is Here—Gift These 20 Amazing Finds This Year

• 12 Weekend Getaway Spas For Every Type of Occasion

• 13 Beauty Tools to Up Your At-Home Facial Game