Duke of Sussex opens up about mental health, trauma, and life beyond royal duty
Prince Harry has undergone a striking transformation in recent years—one shaped not by status or fame, but by vulnerability, self-discovery, and a desire to help others. Since stepping back from royal life in 2020, the Duke of Sussex has made mental health advocacy a core mission, and now he's revealing just how personal that journey truly is.
In a candid interview with renowned trauma expert Dr. Gabor Maté, Harry was diagnosed on the spot with ADD, PTSD, anxiety, and depression—conditions he later confirmed had also been identified by his own doctor. According to New York Daily News, Dr. Maté linked much of Harry’s emotional pain to unresolved childhood trauma, including the devastating loss of Princess Diana in 1997.
Harry acknowledged how his former royal role exacerbated his mental health struggles. He revealed episodes of agoraphobia, recalling a moment where he nearly fainted during a public speech—an experience that went unacknowledged by those closest to him. In a particularly painful memory, he recalled being mocked by his brother Prince William for sweating nervously after the event, highlighting the emotional distance that has grown between the once-close siblings.
Despite their differences, both brothers inherited Diana’s warmth and instinctive empathy—traits often seen in how they interact with the public, especially children. Still, Harry’s path has diverged dramatically. In his memoir Spare, which he described as “an act of service,” he hoped to encourage others to speak openly about their mental health, no matter their background.
Today, Harry is no longer bound by royal protocol but driven by personal growth. Experts note that he now appears more grounded and relatable, showing maturity in his public appearances and a deeper connection with his audience. Whether receiving standing ovations or offering heartfelt speeches, the Duke seems to have stepped into a new identity—one shaped not by title, but by truth.
