The Prince of Wales has marked World Mental Health Day by encouraging people to reach out to their loved ones, saying “one conversation can change everything”.
In a post on X, signed off as “W”, he wrote: “Every day in the UK, around 20 people die by suicide.
“Behind every number is a person, a family and people who love them.
“If you’re worried about someone, reach out.
“Ask how they’re really doing. Listen. Let them know they’re not alone.
“One conversation can change everything.”
Every day in the UK, around 20 people die by suicide.
Behind every number is a person, a family and people who love them.
If you’re worried about someone, reach out.
Ask how they’re really doing. Listen. Let them know they’re not alone.
One conversation can change everything.… pic.twitter.com/Mq3d21K66K
In an interview with the Daily Express, William said: “We do not always know what someone is carrying beneath the surface.
“Taking the time to check in, to listen, and to show kindness can make more of a difference than we often realise.
“Sometimes, a simple conversation is where hope begins.
“The moments that often matter most are the simplest ones: checking in on someone, listening without judgment, and reminding them that they are not alone. Small acts of kindness can have an extraordinary impact.”
The prince's comments form part of his wider work on mental health, including the launch of a National Suicide Prevention Network through his Royal Foundation.
In September, William called for suicide prevention to be part of the sporting world's “game plan”. He urged clubs, competitors and fans to help “save lives”.
Joined by his wife Kate, the prince launched the On Your Side toolkit, which provides practical advice on supporting people at risk of suicide in sporting environments.
The toolkit offers advice on spotting warning signs, starting a conversation with someone suspected of having mental health issues, asking direct questions like “are you thinking about suicide?”, and signposting them to further support.
It also challenges the “myth” that talking about suicide encourages it, stating: “In fact, it opens up a conversation that can help someone feel heard, less alone, and more willing to seek support.”
Speaking on World Suicide Prevention Day earlier this year, William said: “Prevention works when responsibility is shared. When people have the confidence to act and when organisations provide the tools, knowledge and culture that make those actions possible.
“That is what today is about.
“Giving people the confidence to step forward, giving organisations a practical way to make a difference, and bringing the sporting community together behind a shared purpose.”
If you are experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI) or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch.
If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org to access online chat from the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are in another country, you can go to www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you.
Read MoreWhy Trump’s new diesel deal with Putin is ‘shuffling deck chairs on the Titanic’
Prince of Wales says mental health support can begin with ‘simple conversation’
‘I’ve lost friends since my cancer diagnosis. People withdrew from me’
Man seriously injured after being attacked by tiger in Yorkshire
Arrests made as thousands join London pro-Palestine protest
Thousands of pro-Palestine protesters begin march through London
