On mental health, the royal family is doing more than our government | William Davies

There is no greater indictment of British society than soaring rates of mental distress in children. No wonder politicians cling to a simplistic 'illness' model

The public profile of mental health experienced another boost this week, thanks to some moving comments made by Prince Harry and the Duke of Cambridge about the impact of their mother's death, nearly 20 years ago. The two royals are working for the Heads Together campaign, which seeks to combat the stigma surrounding mental health issues, and to encourage people to speak more openly about their difficulties.

Harry's admission that he had ignored his own emotional distress for several years before eventually having counselling was a valuable contribution, from a figure more commonly associated with laddish machismo. William's focus on male suicide statistics was also a good use of his celebrity.

There is no more damning indictment on British society in 2017 than the prevalence of mental distress among children

Related: The stiff upper lip: why the royal health warning matters

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