Mental Health Awareness Month: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle visited with a local youth group, AHA! Santa Barbara, to learn firsthand about this generation’s experiences with social media and societal pressures, and how it affects their mental well-being.
“During this hour-long session, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex spoke with teens ages 14-18 about the opportunities social media can provide for connection and community, as well as the ways in which it also raises issues of insecurity, peer-pressure, and potential for self-harm, among other risks,” according to a statement released by Archewell, the the organization founded by the couple in 2020.
“These important perspectives and experiences help us understand how mental wellness intersects with the online world, and what it means to promote digital wellness in a digital age,” the statement continued. “The Archewell Foundation (AWF) has a history of engaging on these critical issues and working in partnership with youth groups, experts, and families, to develop programs that support and inspire change.”
“AWF holds a core belief that mental health is of the utmost importance, and underpins all of our work,” it added. “We are regularly meeting with young people, parents, and professionals to understand the challenges they may be facing while working together to drive towards long-term solutions on- and offline.”
Meghan Markle has been open about her experiences with mental health challenges. In a 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey, she revealed that she struggled with her mental well-being during her time as a member of the British royal family.
During the interview, Meghan disclosed that the constant media scrutiny and negative press coverage took a toll on her mental health. She discussed feeling isolated, unsupported, and experiencing thoughts of self-harm. Meghan’s openness about her struggles has brought attention to the importance of mental health and sparked conversations about the impact of media scrutiny on individuals in the public eye.
It’s worth noting that discussions around mental health are deeply personal, and it’s important to approach the topic with empathy and understanding. If you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, it’s recommended to seek professional help from a mental health expert or a healthcare provider.
For more updates on Meghan and Harry, keep watching this space.
