Duchess Kate Writes a Heartfelt Message for Children’s Mental Health Week
Duchess Kate has continued her focus on children’s wellbeing and development by launching Children’s Mental Health Week.
As part of her patronage with British children’s charity Place2Be, the Duchess of Cambridge wrote a special message of support to help shine a spotlight on the importance of young people’s mental health.
In a heartfelt open letter, Kate writes, "For many children today, the world can feel a scary and daunting place. While we might not always feel brave inside, even the smallest act—such as sharing a worry or asking for help—can be incredibly courageous. Helping children to feel confident about seeking support can have a transformational impact on their lives."
The theme for this year’s week is "Find Your Brave," and Kate goes on to highlight that bravery isn’t about coping alone or holding worries in. She continues, "Being able to try new things and push ourselves outside of our comfort zone are important skills that can build children’s resilience and self-esteem. Learning these skills early in life can give children tools to cope with future challenges they may face in adulthood."
Kate has been patron of Place2Be since 2013 and, through her work with the charity, has focused on the importance of children’s mental health. "Through all my interactions with the charity, I’m proud to have seen how its work is helping children, young people, and adults to be more confident in looking after their mental health, but there is still much more to do," she says. "The first step is talking about it, and recently I’ve launched a UK-wide survey on the under-fives in an attempt to get people to do just that. Our long-term ambition is to bring about positive, lasting change for generations to come."
Chief Executive of Place2B Catherine Roche tells BAZAAR.com, "We are delighted that our Royal Patron is once again offering her support for the campaign. Around three children in every class have a mental health problem, so it’s vital that we reach as many people as possible with this important message."
The charity provides school-based support and training programs throughout the UK to help improve the emotional wellbeing of students, families and teachers. Adds Kate, "I’d love schools and families across the country to take part in the week to help children and young people to 'find their brave.'"
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