Meghan Markle and Prince Harry recently sat down for their first joint interview in three years, where they discussed their new initiative, The Parents Network, and Meghan’s past struggles with suicidal thoughts. The interview aired on Sunday morning on CBS with host Jane Pauley.
The Parents Network The project, launched through the Archewell Foundation, aims to support families who have lost their children to suicide following online bullying. For Meghan, 43, the project is deeply personal, having previously revealed her own battles with self-harm during her time as a working member of the Royal Family.
During the interviewMeghan stressed the importance of this initiative, stating that she would “never want anyone else to be disbelieved.” As she spoke, she reached out to touch Harry’s leg to comfort him. Jane Pauley directly referenced Meghan’s past experiences, saying, “You had an experience that connects you to these families, and I see you touching your husband’s hand in the same way that I knew they would take care of each other if I went somewhere, but the connection that you have with people is that they know that you have suffered, personally, too. Contemplating suicide is what suicidal ideation is. And I’m dancing around this because I can see that it makes you uncomfortable for me to even go there…”
Meghan, who recently celebrated her 43rd birthday, responded: “I understand why you’re like that, I didn’t expect it, but I understand why you’re like that, because I think there’s a common thread. And when you’ve been through any level of pain or trauma, I think part of our healing journey — certainly part of mine — is being able to be really open about it. And, you know, I haven’t really scratched the surface of my experience.”
She continued, “But I don’t think I would ever want anyone else to feel that way, or for anyone else to make those kinds of plans, or for anyone to believe them.”
Meghan concluded by explaining the potential impact of sharing her story: “So if telling what I’ve overcome can save someone or encourage someone in their life to really care about how they are and not assume that appearance is good, that everything is fine, then it’s worth it. I’ll take a hit for that.”
Meghan and Harry’s candid conversation highlights their commitment to raising awareness of mental health issues and supporting those affected by online bullying and suicide. Their new initiative, The Parents Network, aims to create a supportive community for families and make a significant impact on mental health awareness.
