The Prince William has called for more male role models to speak openly about mental health, describing the high rate of male suicide in the UK as a “real national catastrophe”.
In a special episode of BBC Radio 1’s Life Hacks, the Prince of Wales joined a panel discussion on male suicide, urging men to become more comfortable sharing their feelings and seeking help.
“We need more male role models”
Reflecting on his own approach to emotional wellbeing, Prince William said he takes time to understand why he feels a certain way, describing self-reflection as an important part of mental health.
“I take a long time trying to understand my emotions… to check in with yourself and work out why you’re feeling like you do,” he said.
According to the UK’s Office for National Statistics, suicide was the leading cause of death among young people aged 20 to 34 in England and Wales in 2024.
The prince encouraged people to “learn to love yourself and understand yourself” and stressed that mental health crises, though intense, can pass with time and support.
National Suicide Prevention Network
Through the Royal Foundation, Prince William is contributing £1 million to establish a National Suicide Prevention Network. The initiative will bring together 20 organisations across the UK to better understand root causes and improve support systems.
The panel also featured rapper Professor Green, who has long campaigned on mental health after losing his father to suicide. He praised the prince’s openness, saying it helps “shine such a light on something that people will otherwise just avoid”.
Prince William said normalising conversations around mental health could help push the idea of suicide “further and further away”.
Support organisations and helplines remain available for anyone affected by mental health challenges.