Prince William and Kate Middleton Focus on Mental Health Amid Coronavirus Lockdown
Prince William and Kate Middleton are doing their best to boost mental health amid the coronavirus lockdown. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge just released a message addressing mental health issues people may face during the coronavirus pandemic. While the entire world battles COVID-19, here is a look at what William and Kate, Duchess of Cambridge, have to say about keeping mentally fit during the lockdown.
Kate Middleton and Prince William continue work despite lockdown
Like many parts of the world, the UK is currently under lockdown as the country tries to cut down on the spread of the coronavirus. Most senior members of the royal family are currently in self-isolation, and the Cambridges have stepped up in their absence.
Prince William and Kate recently released a statement advising people to look after their mental well being. Along with the statement, Kensington Palace shared some rare photos of the couple doing some behind-the-scenes work.
According to Town and Country, one of the photos features William sitting beside a fireplace while talking on the phone. The other image shows Kate working on a phone call at her desk with a collection of books in front of her.
The books are Penguin publications that include classic titles like Sense and Sensibility, Emma, Middlemarch, and The Hound of Baskervilles.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge address mental health
Aside from the photos, Prince William and Kate also addressed mental health during the coronavirus lockdown. The Cambridges have been very active in the mental health field for several years and encouraged people to take care of their mental well-being throughout the current crisis.
According to Hello Magazine, the couple acknowledged the challenges that people are facing and urged everyone to reach out for support. The two are working with the National Health Service and the Mental Health Minister, Nadine Dorries, who also issued a statement.
“The last few weeks have been anxious and unsettling for everyone. We have to take time to support each other and find ways to look after our mental health. It is great to see the mental health sector working together with the NHS to help people keep on top of their mental wellbeing. By pulling together and taking simple steps each day, we can all be better prepared for the times ahead,” the Cambridges shared.
Prince William and Kate directed individuals to a guidance sheet from the NHS for specific tips on how to address mental health issues during the lockdown. Dorries, who recently tested positive for COVID-19, added that people should remain in contact with their family and friends (via the phone).
Dorries also revealed that her service will be donating over $5 million to charities that work in the mental health field.
The Cambridges offer advice on how to help children amid the lockdown
The mental well-being of children is also paramount during the coronavirus lockdown. William and Kate offered some advice for teaching children how to manage stress and others who have pre-existing mental health issues.
Along with directing individuals to the NHS, the couple highlighted the need for physical health and keeping children active. They also informed the public about a helpline being run by the NHS that is open 24/7.
Paul Farmer, the head of the mental health organization, Mind, added that people should consider how much their physical health impacts their mental state. Like Prince William and Kate, he advocates for getting outside every day and enjoying some “fresh air.”
“Reaching out to friends and family is critical, as well as paying attention to the impact our physical health can have on our mental health – from diet and exercise to getting enough natural light and a little fresh air,” Farmer stated.
Although they are working hard, William and Kate are currently in self-isolation along with their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. Members of the royal family will remain out of the spotlight until the pandemic is under control.
Prince William on helping the homeless
In addition to mental health, William is also raising awareness about aiding the homeless and less fortunate throughout the pandemic. According to Hello Magazine, the Duke of Cambridge has been working with a charity called The Passage to help the homeless find adequate shelter and food during the lockdown.
“We are in a life and death fight to help those people living on the streets in this public health emergency,” Prince William explained.
William noted that he is also working on a plan to keep the homeless off the streets even after the pandemic is over. Until then, hotels in the area are opening their doors to the homeless and William has called for more aid to provide fresh clothes and food for those in need.
There is no telling how long the lockdown will last, but it is great to see Prince William and Kate Middleton stepping up to the plate and doing their best to keep people healthy during the pandemic.