Psychologist warns Duchess could face relapse if ties with the monarchy are restored
Prince Harry’s efforts to rebuild his relationship with King Charles may come at a heavy cost, with experts warning it could strain his marriage to Meghan Markle.
The Duke of Sussex has been cautioned that moving toward reconciliation without Meghan’s full support could endanger her fragile mental health. Psychologist Clare Deacon told RadarOnline that a return to royal circles might reopen old wounds for the Duchess, who has previously spoken about the darkest period of her life.
“It isn’t erased by distance, and even years later, stepping back into a space that once felt emotionally unsafe can activate past fears, doubts and protective behaviors,” she explained. “If reconciliation led to a return or increased UK presence, Meghan could understandably feel conflicted – torn between duty, identity and the peace she’s built since.”
Speculation about a royal thaw has grown since Harry’s recent four-day visit to Britain. The 41-year-old reportedly spent 54 minutes in a private meeting with King Charles at Clarence House – their most meaningful conversation in nearly two years.
While some see this as a first step toward healing the royal rift, sources close to the Sussexes claim Meghan feels “threatened and triggered” by Harry’s eagerness to reconnect. “She confides that she fought hard to break free from that life and doesn’t want to be pulled back,” one insider said.
Concerns stem from Meghan’s past struggles. In her 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey, she revealed she “didn’t want to be alive anymore” during her time as a working royal and said she was denied help when she sought mental health support. Court documents also showed she felt “unprotected by the institution” and silenced while pregnant with Archie, now six.
As Harry shows renewed interest in spending more time in the UK, questions remain over whether reconciliation with his family could put his marriage – and Meghan’s well-being – at risk.
