Prince Harry has opened up about mental health issues during a visit to Australia and encouraged people ‘not to suffer in silence’.
The Duke of Sussex delivered an emotional speech to farmers in Dubbo in New South Wales who have been struggling in drought conditions.
Harry, who was accompanied by his wife Meghan, was speaking to thousands of people as much-needed rain fell on them and said that having the courage to ask for help was a sign of strength.
He said: “We know that suicide rates in rural and remote areas are greater than in urban populations and this may be especially true among young men in remote regions.
“But outside all of that here’s what I also know. You are one huge community and with that comes an unparalleled level of internal support and understanding.
“All you need to do is to ask for it. Ask your neighbour, your peer, your fellow farmer is literally right around the corner.
“Chances are they may well be suffering too and will relish the opportunity to either listen or talk themselves.”
Harry also spoke of his own experiences of seeking help.
He said: “You need to know a part of being strong and tough is having the courage to ask for help when you need it.
“You must not silently suffer. You are all in this together and if I may speak personally we are all in this together, because asking for help was one of the best decisions that I ever made.
“You will be continually amazed how life changes for the better.”
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are visiting Australia, Fiji, Tonga and New Zealand, and will include the Invictus Games Sydney 2018.
Photo credit: Nottinghamshire Police