“Please know that you are not alone,” is the Prince of Wales’ message of support to families grieving for a loved one who took their own life while serving in the armed forces.
A series of guides for military veterans and their loved ones was released on Wednesday by Suicide Bereavement UK, and Prince William, 41, wrote a heartfelt foreword for it.
The father of three described how he and the Princess of Wales had developed an understanding of the “power that comes from sharing experiences” through their many encounters with grieving families.
Photo: © Getty Images
He stated that it was “essential that the voices of those bereaved by suicide are heard” .
William continued: “There is no time limit to processing grief, but Catherine and I have met many bereaved families over the years and know the power that comes from sharing experiences, even in the most tragic of circumstances.”
William, an RAF search and rescue pilot and former member of the Blues and Royals in the Army, explained how losing a loved one to suicide can be a difficult and protracted experience.
He expressed his hope that the guides would serve as an invaluable resource for direction and support for people going through “what can be dark days of grief” when dealing with loss.
“We look to our Armed Forces to provide help, support, and stability at times of national and international crisis,” he stated. “Members of our armed forces take on challenges head-on, using their skills and cooperating to support one another. However, it can be tempting to conceal one’s own needs during difficult times.”
Photo: © Getty Images
Few of us will live through our lives without losing someone we love, the Prince continued. Although suicide is thankfully uncommon among members of the armed forces, bereavement from suicide can be a difficult and protracted process for those who suffer from it. The stigma associated with suicide frequently keeps those who are affected from coming forward and asking for assistance.”
Suicide Bereavement UK and NHS England commissioned the free At Your Side guides, which were co-produced by bereaved people and designed to support veterans, families, and serving personnel.
It occurs before the Prince returns to his royal duties on March 22, following his Easter break with his wife, Catherine, who disclosed that she is receiving prophylactic chemotherapy for an unidentified cancer.
The heir apparent will visit Sunbury-on-Thames’ Surplus to Supper, a charity that redistributes surplus food, on Thursday. After that, he will visit a youth centre in west London that receives regular deliveries from the organisation.
William was last sighted in public with his ten-year-old eldest child, Prince George, at an Aston Villa football game.
To receive mental health support, call 116 123, send an email to jo@samaritans.org, or go to samaritans.org to locate the branch closest to you.
