For the first time, Prince Harry gives a candid interview on the impact of his mother’s death on his mental health, in an interview with Bryony Gordon for her new podcast series called ‘Mad World.’
The purpose of the interview is to discuss with the special guests why it’s ok to be weird and their own mental health experiences.
Prince Harry revealed that he has dealt with his mother’s death by “sticking my head in the sand, refusing to ever think about [Princess Diana],” for almost 2 decades. He even discusses that because he did not process the grief of his mother’s death it led to “two years of total chaos” and aggression, where at times he felt “on the verge of punching someone.”
“I have probably been very close to a complete breakdown on numerous occasions when all sorts of grief and sort of lies and misconceptions and everything are coming to you from every angle.”
Prince Harry also thanks his brother for helping him deal with his grief.
“My brother, you know, bless him, he was a huge support to me. He kept saying this is not right, this is not normal.”
And perhaps the most important message that should be taken away is that mental health issues need to be normalized.
Prince Harry began the interview by saying: “I’ve spent most of my life saying I’m fine.” Then goes on to promote conversation about mental health. “I know there is huge merit in talking about your issues and the only thing about keeping it quiet is that it’s only ever going to make it worse.”
But through professional help, Prince Harry states he is now in a “good place.”
“Because of the process I have been through over the past two and a half years, I’ve now been able to take my work seriously, been able to take my private life seriously as well, and been able to put blood, sweat and tears into the things that really make a difference and things that I think will make a difference to everybody else.”
And Prince Harry is certainly using his power and influence to end the stigma around mental health in the UK with his combined campaign with The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Heads Together.
A very important lesson can be learnt from Prince Harry’s journey. It is ok to not be fine. It is even ok to talk about what issues you are facing. And there will always be people who are willing to help you.
If you need help you can call:
Beyond Blue Support Service. Support. Advice. Action
1300 22 4636