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Prince William Makes Guest Appearance On Virtual Church Service To Discuss Mental Health

Prince William is encouraging people to reach out to loved ones and start a conversation about mental health during the coronavirus pandemic.

The Duke of Cambridge made a guest appearance during a Church of England service this week that centered on mental wellbeing.

“It is OK to not feel OK,” William said during the prerecorded virtual service that aired Sunday on Facebook, YouTube and the denomination’s website.

“I understand that some people will be worried about burdening other people in the midst of this crisis. But people should not feel afraid to start a conversation,” William said. “Your mental health is just as important as your physical health, and it is worthy of attention.”

The Sunday service marked the end of Mental Health Awareness Week in Britain, an annual event organized by the Mental Health Foundation, an advocacy group that supports research and policy development on this issue.

The foundation has warned that the mental health effect of the COVID-19 pandemic could “last longer and potentially be more significant” than the impact the virus has on people’s physical health, particularly for families experiencing financial hardship.

Caring for one’s mental health during the pandemic could mean making time for “prayer and quiet reflection,” or talking to a fellow parishioner, friend or family member, William said.

“The Christian teachings of faith, hope and love could not be more appropriate as we all try to navigate our way through these uncertain times,” he said.

William, who will one day assume the ceremonial role of “supreme governor” of the Church of England, also thanked its parishes for bringing “community, togetherness and peace” to those struggling during the pandemic.

The Duke of Cambridge opened up last month about how worried he initially felt after hearing that his father, Prince Charles, had tested positive for COVID-19.

“I have to admit, at first I was quite concerned. He fits the...

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