Archbishop of Canterbury Says Prince Williams Inspired Him to Get Mental Health Help
Editor's Note
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What happened: In a Sunday Times editorial, Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby credited Prince William’s mental health advocacy for his own decision to seek mental health help. “I am deeply grateful to His Royal Highness for speaking publicly about mental health and hope it might encourage others who are suffering alone to seek help and support,” Welby wrote. “It encouraged me to seek help when I was struggling, help which was effective.”
The Frontlines: As Archbishop of Canterbury, Welby is the leader of the Church of England, which includes working with the royal family. He is no stranger to mental health issues or disability, thanks to his personal experiences and his children.
- Welby has previously spoken about struggling with depression, including revealing he takes anitdepressants
- His daughter, Katharine, also struggles with depression and does mental health advocacy work
- Welby’s daughter Ellie lives with dyspraxia, a developmental disability that impacts coordination
A Mighty Voice: The church isn’t always supportive of those who live with mental illness or disabilities, as our community member, Susie Barber, wrote. “We need to stop shunning people with disabilities, sensory issues, learning disorders and chronic illnesses simply because they look and act different than what we may be used to. We need to stop blaming people with mental illnesses and disabilities for struggling.” You can submit your first person story, too.
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From Our Community:
Add your voice: Join The Mighty’s Chat Space group by downloading our app or comment below.
Other things to know: Read what fellow Christians have said about the church and mental illness in the following Mighty articles:
- My Depression Doesn’t Make Me Less of a Christian
- 12 ‘Harmless’ Comments That Hurt Christians Struggling With Suicidal Thoughts
- 10 ‘Harmless’ Pieces of Advice Anxious Christians Are Tired of Hearing
More helpful thinking: If you’re struggling with your mental health, know you’re not alone. Here are 20 Bible verses other Christians turn to at times when they need extra support.