The Prince of Wales recently opened up about his mental health challenges during a panel discussion focused on suicide prevention. He candidly shared how his experiences as an air ambulance pilot contributed to a decline in his mental well-being. Between March 2015 and July 2017, William volunteered for the East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA), where he felt burdened by the emotional weight of the individuals he was helping.
During an episode of BBC Radio 1’s Life Hacks, the Prince highlighted the urgent need for conversations around mental health, particularly among men. He described it as a “national catastrophe” that the high rates of male suicide are not more commonly acknowledged. In the UK, men represent a staggering 75 percent of suicide deaths, with statistics indicating 6,242 such cases recorded from February 2023 to January 2025.
William emphasized the importance of taking time to reflect on mental health. Recalling his time as a pilot, he said, “It’s really important you have those moments where you take stock. The biggest example for me was when I was doing work with the air ambulance, I was a pilot flying with them.” He noted that the high-pressure environment involved in aiding people in dire circumstances often left him feeling as if he was “carrying everyone’s emotional baggage.”
His advocacy serves to encourage other men to speak up about their mental health struggles, reinforcing the message that seeking help and sharing burdens can contribute to better overall well-being. The Prince’s openness about such a serious issue is a hopeful reminder that awareness and discussion can foster change and potentially save lives.