Prince Harry speaks out about mental health

Harry told a room full of guests: "It's time we ended the shame around mental health." Photo / Getty

Prince Harry has called for an end to the stigma surrounding mental health.

The 32-year-old royal was joined by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at County Hall in London on World Mental Health Day on Monday where he addressed the importance of talking about mental illness without feeling any "shame".

Speaking on behalf of the trio's charity Heads Together, he told a room full of guests: "It's time we ended the shame around mental health - the fear of judgement that stops people talking or getting help."

Prince William, 34, vowed that himself, Harry and his wife Catherine, also 34, will do all they can to make it easy for those battling depression and any other form of illness to ask for help.

He said: "Mental health is not a dirty word. We all have mental health like we do physical health, good or ill.

"But not seeking help at those times when it all seems too much or we are depressed or anxious, can impact the rest of our lives. Put it simply the three of us want to make asking for help no longer a big deal."

And Catherine backed up William's comments by saying the trio feel it is their "duty" to show what services and support mechanisms are available to help sufferers.

She added: "William, Harry and I feel it is our duty to do what we can, with your help, to shine a spotlight on emotional wellbeing and highlight the support that is out there to prevent or manage the pain at difficult times."

William, Catherine and Harry took a ride on a purple lit London Eye to mark the day and also spoke to those who have received support from close ones during dark times in their lives.

The trio marked the day with a ride on a purple lit London Eye. Photo / Getty