A CALL FOR MORE KINDNESS ONLINE

Speaking out about the effects of social media on young minds, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex worry about protecting their own children

- REBECCA RUSSELL

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have faced numerous hurdles as a couple, but last week, it was clear they’re set to encounter their toughest challenge yet: the future safety and wellbeing of their children.

Prince Harry and Meghan gave an insight into their concerns as they marked World Mental Health Day during a visit to New York – their first time in the city since their “near catastrophic car chase” back in May.

Taking to the stage alongside her husband at the Archewell Foundation Parents’ Summit: Mental Wellness In A Digital Age, Meghan looked close to tears as she passionately told the audience how she’s “frightened” about the potential consequences of Prince Archie, four, and Princes Lilibet, two, using social media as they grow up.

 

“I feel fortunate that our children are at an age, quite young, so this isn’t in our immediate future, but I also feel frightened at how [social media] is continuing to change and this will be in front of us,” she said.

Having previously spoken to families who lost children as a result of mental health challenges linked to using social media, Meghan told those gathered at Hudson Yards, “At that time, it was impossible to not be in tears, as I’m sure some of you have been today, hearing those stories. You can hear those stories again and again and it’s still going to have the same emotional impact, because it’s just that devastating.