kate middleton mental health

In honor of the U.K.’s first Children’s Mental Health Week, royal mum-to-be Kate Middleton delivers a moving message to help shatter the shame of anxiety, depression and other mental health struggles.

“The challenges children face in the U.K. today could often feel overwhelming. Both Prince William and I have seen that many young people are struggling to cope with the impact of bullying, domestic violence, family breakdowns and more,” she shared. “Without support, the effects of these challenges can be traumatic leading to serious issues such as anxiety, depression, addiction and self-harm.”

The Duchess of Cambridge, 33, urges people to finally start talking about mental health.

“We need to help young people and their parents understand that it’s not a sign of weakness to ask for help,” she said. “A child’s mental health is just as important as their physical health and deserves the same quality of support.”

Although mental health issues are still a taboo topic, the royal mum-to-be aims to shatter the shame.

“You wouldn’t feel bad about getting your child help for a broken arm. So why would you feel bad about getting your son or daughter help with emotional difficulties?,” she asked. “The sigma about mental health means many children do not get the help they so badly need. This needs to change.”

The Duchess – who promotes the school-based emotional and mental health services provided by the group Place2Be – concludes her powerful message.

“Together, with open conversations and greater understanding, we can ensure that attitudes towards mental health change and children receive the support they deserve,” she said.