Prince William and Kate Middleton discuss challenging the ‘stigma’ surrounding mental health as part of vital campaign

They urge people to ‘keep taking action’

Prince William and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge visit to Cardiff Castle on December 08, 2020 in Cardiff, Wales
(Image credit: Photo by Samir Hussein/WireImage via Getty)

Prince William and Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge, have spoken out about the importance of challenging the “stigma which surrounds mental health” as part of the Time to Change campaign.

Prince William and Duchess Kate have long been prominent advocates for mental health initiatives. And in February, the royal couple also lent their support to a particularly important cause – the Time to Change campaign. This is a vital social movement supported by a team of 60 people to help end mental health stigma.

They aim to challenge the negative attitudes that too often impact the lives of those who are experiencing mental health problems. Earlier this year, the official Kensington Royal Instagram account posted a video clip that posed the all-important question – ‘Can a small conversation make a difference?’ 

In the caption, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge spoke of how it’s sometimes easy to believe we ‘haven’t got the power to make a change’. They also encouraged followers to learn more about the Time to Change campaign.

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Now, speaking in a recent video clip shared on the Time to Change Twitter account, the royal couple have discussed the “stigma which surrounds mental health”. 

How has Time to Change helped support people’s mental health?

Prince William began his and Duchess Kate’s important message by stating, "We wanted to say a big thank you to everyone who has shared their experiences and taken action through Time to Change, helping to challenge the stigma which surrounds mental health.” 

"Movements like Time to Change have helped to transform attitudes and encourage more openness about mental health in schools, communities and the workplace,” Duchess Kate continued. 

Prince William went on to reveal how Time to Change champions have made a difference and helped the subject of mental health become more openly discussed.

“Over the past 15 years, Time to Change champions have inspired and supported thousands of people across the country, and mental health has now, at last, moved into the mainstream as part of our daily lives,” he said.

Though, as Kate acknowledged, “the work isn’t done yet and we cannot afford to stop here.” 

“We need to keep talking, keep taking action and continue to stand up to the stigma,” Prince William declared.

Emma Shacklock

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!