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On February 18, 2026, Prince William shared insights into his personal journey of emotional introspection, emphasizing the significance of taking time to process one’s feelings.
During a special Life Hacks segment on BBC Radio 1, the Prince of Wales highlighted the critical role emotional self-awareness plays in maintaining mental health. He advocated for more men to step up as role models by speaking openly about their mental health challenges.
Prince William at the Tusk Conservation Awards in 2024
He conveyed how essential it has become for him to routinely reflect on his emotions as part of his self-care regimen. “I take a long time trying to understand my emotions and why I feel like I do,” said the 43-year-old heir to the British throne, underscoring the importance of this practice in his life.
He explained that regularly checking in with himself has become an essential part of maintaining his well-being.
The 43-year-old future king said: “I take a long time trying to understand my emotions and why I feel like I do.
“Sometimes there’s an obvious explanation, sometimes there isn’t. I think that idea that mental health crisis is temporary — you can have a strong mental health crisis moment but it will pass.”
William’s candid reflections set the tone for a wider conversation about male suicide, hosted by Radio 1 DJ Greg James, where the prince stressed that open dialogue can save lives.
He argued that men often struggle to express vulnerability, and that seeing other men speak honestly could help break down long‑standing stigma.
He said: “We need more male role models out there, talking about it and normalising it, so that it becomes second nature to all of us.”
Mental health has long been a central focus of William’s charitable work, and his Royal Foundation is now contributing £1 million to help develop a National Suicide Prevention Network. The initiative aims to strengthen support systems across the UK and ensure people in crisis can access help more quickly.
During the panel, William – who has Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and seven-year-old Prince Louis with wife Catherine, Princess of Wales, 44 – encouraged listeners to “learn to love yourself and understand yourself,” adding that education and awareness can act as a protective barrier during difficult moments.
He also highlighted the crucial role of frontline organisations, describing them as a “stepping stone” for anyone struggling to cope.
Prince William added that with the right support and openness, “hopefully the idea of suicide keeps being pushed further and further away. Because you know that tomorrow, you might wake up and you might feel very different.”
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