Meghan Markle and Prince Harry recently gave their first joint interview since 2021, opening up about a new project that’s close to their hearts. The couple spoke with CBS Sunday Morning’s Jane Pauley to discuss their latest initiative aimed at raising awareness of the dangers social media poses to children.
In the interview, Meghan shared her deeply personal struggle with suicidal thoughts, a topic she first revealed during a 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey. Meghan emphasized how important it is to talk openly about such experiences, especially when it can help others.
“There’s a common thread when you’ve been through pain or trauma,” Meghan explained. “Part of healing, at least for me, is being able to talk about it. I haven’t even touched the surface of my experience, but I never want anyone else to feel that way, to be making those kinds of plans, or to not be believed.”
Meghan recalled a particularly dark time when she was pregnant with Princess Lilibet. “I went to the institution and said I needed help, that I’d never felt this way before,” she remembered. “But I was told I couldn’t get help because it wouldn’t be good for the institution.”
Despite how uncomfortable it might be to share her story, Meghan believes it’s important. “If sharing what I’ve overcome can save someone or encourage them to check in on their loved ones, then it’s worth it,” she said. “I’m willing to take the criticism for that.”
The couple’s new initiative, The Parents’ Network, is part of their Archewell Foundation. It focuses on highlighting the risks of social media for children and teens. For Meghan and Harry, this program is a vital step toward making a real difference.
“You have to start somewhere,” Meghan said. “Think about it from the perspective of a parent. Imagine your child, who’s joyful and full of life, suddenly changed because of something beyond your control. How could you not want to find a solution?”
Since marrying in May 2018, Harry and Meghan have become parents to Prince Archie, 5, and Princess Lilibet, 3. In the interview, they spoke lovingly about their “amazing” children and how being parents drives their work.
“Our kids are young, they’re 3 and 5,” Meghan said. “They’re amazing. All you want as parents is to protect them. Seeing what’s happening online, we know there’s a lot of work to do, and we’re just happy to be part of the change for good.”
Harry echoed Meghan’s concerns about the dangers of the digital age. “We’ve reached a point where almost every parent needs to be like a first responder,” he said. “Even the best first responders might not recognize the signs of potential suicide. That’s the terrifying part.”
Through The Parents’ Network and their other efforts, Harry and Meghan continue to push for safer online environments, driven by their own experiences and a commitment to protecting their children’s future.
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