Kate Middleton speaks out on ‘lonely and overwhelming’ time as she shines a light on ‘vital work’
Kate Middleton has spoken out in a poignant new video as she reflected on the importance of having support ‘at the right time’...
Kate Middleton has spoken out about a time when many feel “lonely and overwhelmed” as she highlighted “vital work” to help stop people “suffering in silence”.
- The Duchess of Cambridge got candid about one of the most “challenging times” in a poignant new video.
- She announced her new role as Patron of the Maternal Mental Health Alliance as she urged everyone to support all those raising children.
- This royal news comes as there’s heartache for the Queen as she pulls out of special royal plans amid her health struggles.
As a senior member of the extended Royal Family, the Duchess of Cambridge is consistently raising awareness for important issues. Despite some claiming Kate Middleton is a “natural introvert” and finds her high-profile role “challenging” at times, her warmth and commitment come through in her engagements as she highlights charities and organizations that do so much for so many. This was certainly the case with her confident latest appearance as the Duchess took to YouTube for a very special reason.
Posting a moving new video, Kate marked Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week (May 2-May 8 2022) as she opened up on an intensely difficult time and affirmed no one should face it alone.
Speaking from what could possibly be her home at Kensington Palace, the future Queen Consort and mother described parenthood as a "gift". However, she also got candid about how the early years of a child’s life are “demanding”.
“The birth of a child is one of life’s greatest gifts. But it can also be one of the most challenging times for many families and one that should not be faced alone,” the mom-of-three began before going on to stress that, “This Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week is about the power and importance of connection”.
Discussing the “lonely and overwhelming” nature of early years, she empathetically discussed the heartbreaking impact it has on many women in the UK.
“But we all know that pregnancy, childbirth, and the first months and years of a child’s life can be hugely demanding,” the Duchess explained. “Parents often feel lonely and overwhelmed by these early years. Around 20% of women in the UK are reported to experience perinatal mental illness. Sadly, we also know that many more are suffering in silence.”
Sign up for the woman&home newsletter
Sign up to our free daily email for the latest royal and entertainment news, interesting opinion, expert advice on styling and beauty trends, and no-nonsense guides to the health and wellness questions you want answered.
Kate added that “no one is immune to experiencing anxiety and depression” at this time. As a result, she affirmed, it’s “crucial” that everyone who might be struggling has access to the “right support at the right time”.
In this way, the Duchess suggested that they would feel able to share their feelings “without fear of judgment” and that they can “access the information, care, and support” they need.
Reflecting on the work done to transform attitudes, raise awareness and provide important services over the decades, she continued, “Much of this vital work has been led by the Maternal Mental Health Alliance, a fantastic organization of which I am extremely proud to become Patron of today.”
The MMHA is a UK-wide charity and network consisting of over 100 organizations whose mission is to ensure women and families affected by perinatal mental issues can have access to comprehensive support and care.
Just like many of her relatives high up in the royal line of succession, the Duchess has a huge number of patronages and she's previously shown her passion for the early years when she announced the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood.
And it seems she’s also determined to make a big difference in her new role as she issued a plea. Stating that there’s “plenty more to be done”, she urged people to “support parents and carers, and all those who are raising children today”.
“Because by ensuring that the next generation of children can thrive, we can help to build a stronger, healthier, and more nurturing society which benefits us all,” Kate powerfully concluded.
Emma is a Royal Editor with eight years experience working in publishing. Her specialist areas include the British Royal Family, ranging from protocol to outfits. Alongside putting her royal knowledge to good use, Emma knows all there is to know about the latest TV shows on the BBC, ITV and more. When she’s not writing about the next unmissable show to add to your to-watch list or delving into royal protocol, Emma enjoys cooking, long walks and watching yet more crime dramas!
-
Our beauty expert thinks this £66 LED light therapy tool performs just as effectively as her favourite high-end models
Does the Skin Gym Revilit LED Therapy Tool perform as well as those twice its price point?
By Emma Stoddart Published
-
Chic transitional nail designs to make an impression in this extended rainy season - in hopes of sunnier days
The classic and sometimes overshadowed nail designs we're loving for this late (and long enduring) spring...
By Naomi Jamieson Published
-
Kate Middleton's 'very deliberate and clever' preparation for 'powerful' royal role
The Royal Family have been smart and intentional about getting the Princess of Wales ready for the duty that lies ahead, an expert says
By Caitlin Elliott Published
-
The unexpected inspiration behind Prince Louis's 'first words' revealed by Kate Middleton
One of Prince Louis's 'first words' was shared by his proud mum on TV and it's got nothing to do with the Royal Family
By Emma Shacklock Published
-
Kate Middleton's bargain cosy home essential makes such a difference to her traditional living room
The Princess of Wales uses an affordable accessory to transform her living room into a cosy, welcoming space
By Emma Shacklock Published
-
Recent weeks 'precious' for Kate Middleton with 'country walks and snuggles in front of the TV' with George, Charlotte and Louis
The Prince and Princess of Wales have been able to relish in precious family time over the Easter break, according to a royal expert
By Caitlin Elliott Published
-
The indulgent recipe George, Charlotte and Louis make for Kate Middleton is our idea of a dream dinner
Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis each have a role to play when they whip this dish up for Princess Catherine
By Emma Shacklock Published
-
32 sweet pictures of Prince William and Kate Middleton with their children
There's nothing better than an adorable moment between the Prince and Princess of Wales and their children
By Jack Slater Published
-
32 candid pictures of the Wales family, from world tours to family days out
Whether it's quality time with one of their children or all five of them out together, we love these candid photos of the Waleses
By Jack Slater Published
-
The best candid pictures of the Prince and Princess of Wales having a great time together
The Prince and Princess of Wales aren't just man and wife - they're best friends who always have a fun time together
By Jack Slater Published