Prince Harry has called for the ban of the term “mental health” as he appeared on a panel to discuss the global mental health crisis.
The Duke of Sussex suggested replacing the phrase “mental health” with “mental fitness” at the Concordia Annual Summit event in New York.
The 40-year-old appeared nervous on stage for a Diana Award event in Manhattan.
During her opening remarks, CEO of The Diana Award – Dr Tessy Ojo – described Harry as “a passionate advocate for mental health”.
Prince Harry has called for the ban of the term ‘mental health’ as he appeared on a panel to discuss global mental health crisisReutersShe told the audience: “He actually said to me, as we came in, that actually, we should no longer talk about mental health, we should talk about mental fitness.
“His dedication to this cause strengthens our mission.”
Following the panel discussion, the Duke was joined by the two winners of the Diana Legacy Award – Chiara Riyanti Hutapea Zhang, 18, from Indonesia, and Christina Williams, 27, from Jamaica.
During the 30-minute appearance, Harry looked nervous as he fiddled with his tie and jacket and shifted in his chair.
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The 40-year-old appeared nervous on stage for a Diana Award event in Manhattan
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Discussing mental health, the Duke said: “It affects every single one of us, from the top to bottom, from the youngest to the oldest.
“And I think you guys are leading the charge in hopefully being able to break down the stigma to be able to continue these conversations.”
He added: “I know that my mum would be incredibly proud of you guys, not just you, but all of the winners, and, Tessy – you’ve been in this for a very long time so thank you for that as well.
“But the way that you do it, your activism, your compassion, those two things are so true to how my mom led her life and what she believed in. And the way that you do it is incredible. So thank you.”
The event is one of many Harry is set to attend in New York without his wife Meghan Markle
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The event is one of many Harry is set to attend in New York without his wife Meghan Markle.
He is expected to discuss solutions to global challenges tomorrow with ex-US president Bill Clinton, his daughter Chelsea Clinton, WHO director general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, US broadcaster Katie Couric and primatologist Jane Goodall.
The prince’s solo trip highlights his continued commitment to charitable causes, particularly those focused on conservation, landmine clearance, and youth empowerment.
His appearances alone have become more frequent over recent weeks.