Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
Harry hopes to make an impact in new mental health job
He joins Silicon Valley firm weeks after Meg revelation
PRINCE Harry has landed a job at a mental health company as its “chief impact officer” weeks after Meghan told how life as a royal had left her feeling suicidal.
The Duke of Sussex’s role at Betterup, based in Silicon Valley, comes after he told Oprah Winfrey he was unable to get help for his wife while living in London.
As part of his role, Harry, 36, will advocate on topics related to mental health.
He will also be involved in initiatives including product strategy decisions and charitable contributions.
Harry has spoken of his own struggles as he battled to come to terms with the death of his mother Princess Diana when he was just 12 years old.
Confirming his appointment, he said: “I intend to help create impact in people’s lives. Proactive coaching provides endless possibilities for personal development, increased awareness and an all-round better life.”
Harry said he has been using the Betterup’s app. He said: “I was matched with my coach who, quite frankly, is truly awesome and has always given me sound advice and a fresh perspective, which is so valuable.”
Betterup CEO Alexi Robichaux refused to reveal details of the employment agreement or how much, if at all, Harry was getting paid.
He said the prince was joining the company’s leadership team as an “officer of the corporation” and that his position was “a meaningful and meaty role”. He added: “He’s synonymous with this approach of mental fitness and really investing in yourself. It was not a hard internal sale.” Harry will eventually spend time at the San Francisco headquarters, attend meetings and be a special guest at company events, Mr Robichaux said. Since becoming a couple, the Sussexes have been advocates of better mental health.
Earlier this month, Meghan opened up to Winfrey about her own mental health during their explosive tell-all interview.
The duchess, 39, told how she was forced to surrender her keys, driver’s licence and passport upon joining the family, saying she felt under their control. She described approaching Harry and the Royal Family seeking help with suicidal thoughts during her pregnancy.
Meghan revealed: “I just didn’t want to be alive anymore. And that was a very clear and real and frightening constant thought. And I remember – I remember how he just cradled me.”
She said she later asked a senior royal about seeking help and was told that would not be possible because it “wouldn’t be good for the institution”.
Harry told Winfrey: “It’s really sad that it’s gotten to this point, but I’ve got to do something for my own mental health, my wife’s, and for Archie’s, as well, because I could see where this was headed.”