The Prince of Wales, William, recently opened up about the impact of his time as an air ambulance pilot on his mental health during a panel discussion focused on suicide prevention. Reflecting on his experience, he shared that his mental well-being “deteriorated” as he often felt he was “carrying everyone’s emotional baggage” while providing assistance in critical situations.
Having served with the East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA) from March 2015 to July 2017, William emphasized the urgent need for men to address their mental health openly. His comments came during an episode of BBC Radio 1’s Life Hacks, where he highlighted the alarming statistic that men represent 75 percent of suicide deaths in the UK, translating to 6,242 lives lost between February 2023 and January 2025. He called attention to what he deemed a “national catastrophe” due to the lack of dialogue surrounding this pressing issue.
William remarked on the importance of evaluating one’s mental health, stating, “It’s really important you have those moments where you take stock.” He recalled the intensity of being a pilot, which involved assisting individuals in dire circumstances, underscoring the emotional toll it can take on caregivers.
This candid conversation is part of a broader movement to encourage men to discuss their mental health struggles, shine a light on the societal stigma surrounding such conversations, and promote a support network for those who may be suffering in silence. The Prince’s openness serves to inspire others to seek help and to create an environment where mental health can be discussed without stigma.