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James Middleton, brother of Catherine, the Princess of Wales, opened up on May 24, 2025, in an interview with the Daily Mirror, about how his sister’s support was vital in overcoming a severe mental health crisis in 2017. Diagnosed with dyslexia, attention deficit disorder (ADD), and depression, the 38-year-old entrepreneur faced moments of despair that led him to contemplate suicide. He credited the strength of his family bond, particularly with Kate, Pippa Middleton, and their mother, Carole, for helping him find balance. This story of vulnerability and resilience is the focus of his new memoir, which also highlights the role of his cocker spaniel, Ella.
Middleton’s journey sheds light on a persistent taboo: men’s mental health. He admitted that, despite struggles to express emotions, his sisters’ emotional intelligence inspired him to name his feelings. The combination of family support and his bond with Ella was pivotal in his recovery.
Key moments of the 2017 crisis: Middleton battled suicidal thoughts but found solace in his family.Kate and Pippa’s influence: The sisters provided emotional support, helping him break through isolation.Ella’s impact: His dog gave him a reason to keep going, encouraging daily routines.
Middleton’s narrative is not just personal but a call to reflect on the importance of support networks during crises.
Vulnerability as strength
James Middleton emphasized that vulnerability is not weakness but strength. He explained that the strong women in his family—Kate, Pippa, and Carole—taught him to see emotional openness as empowering. In 2017, he hit rock bottom, feeling unable to share his pain. Yet, his family’s closeness shifted his perspective. Kate, known for her advocacy in mental health, showed empathy and patience, guiding him toward recovery.
He also praised his cocker spaniel, Ella, who became an anchor during his darkest days. “She gave me purpose,” he said, describing how daily walks and caring for her helped him maintain structure. This bond with Ella is central to his memoir, blending personal stories with reflections on mental health.
Kate’s role in mental health advocacy
Catherine, the Princess of Wales, has emerged as a prominent advocate for mental health. Alongside Prince William, she co-founded initiatives like Heads Together, aimed at destigmatizing the issue. Her influence extends beyond public work. Middleton noted that Kate’s sensitivity to others’ emotions was a key factor in his recovery. “She’s always been attuned to those around her,” he said, highlighting how her empathy made him feel understood.
Pippa Middleton also played a significant role. Together, the sisters created a safe space for James to voice his struggles. He believes this family dynamic helped him learn to articulate emotions, even when societal norms discourage men from doing so.
Breaking the stigma
Middleton’s story addresses a global issue: the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly for men. World Health Organization (WHO) data shows men have higher suicide rates, often due to reluctance to seek help. In his interview, Middleton confronted this, admitting he initially resisted discussing his struggles. “I thought I had to be strong all the time,” he confessed.
His openness aims to shift this narrative. Middleton hopes his story encourages others to seek support from family, friends, or professionals. In the UK, organizations like Samaritans and Mind provide resources for those in crisis, reinforcing that seeking help is an act of courage.
Alarming statistics: The WHO reports about 700,000 suicide deaths annually worldwide.Men and mental health: Men account for 75% of suicides in the UK.Available support: Helplines like Samaritans operate 24/7.
Ella’s role in recovery
Ella, Middleton’s cocker spaniel, was more than a pet—she was a lifeline. He described how caring for her motivated him to leave the house, even on the toughest days. “Ella gave me a reason to get up,” he said. This bond inspired his memoir, which weaves stories about Ella with insights on resilience.
The link between pets and mental health is well-documented. Studies show animals can reduce stress and anxiety, offering companionship and purpose. For Middleton, Ella was a bridge to reconnecting with the world, making her a cornerstone of his recovery.
The power of family bonds
Middleton described the sibling bond as “unique” and “powerful,” a cornerstone of his recovery. He noted that, despite occasional challenges, his relationship with Kate and Pippa sustained him through his lowest points. “They’ve seen me at my best and worst,” he said, underscoring the value of a supportive family.
Carole Middleton, their 70-year-old mother, was equally vital, offering unwavering support. Middleton believes this family dynamic is relatable, resonating with those who find strength in loved ones during tough times.
Men’s mental health in the spotlight
Middleton’s experience highlights the challenges men face in addressing mental health. He noted that societal pressure to appear “strong” often prevents men from seeking help. His journey, however, shows vulnerability can be transformative. “Naming my feelings was the first step,” he said.
Mental health organizations are working to change this perception. UK campaigns like Time to Change promote open conversations. Middleton hopes his story contributes to this movement, showing that even public figures face inner struggles.
Ella’s lasting legacy
Middleton’s memoir is both a tribute to Ella and a platform to discuss mental health. He hopes his experiences inspire others to seek help and celebrate small victories, like a walk with a pet or a talk with a loved one. “Ella saved me from myself,” he said, emphasizing the profound impact a pet can have.
His story also underscores the value of support networks, human or animal. Middleton believes sharing his journey can help break barriers and encourage others to speak openly about their struggles.
Kate and Pippa’s emotional intelligence
The Middleton sisters are described as exceptionally emotionally intelligent. James noted that Kate and Pippa’s attentiveness to others’ needs was something he only fully appreciated in hindsight. “They gave me permission to feel,” he said, explaining how their openness helped him overcome isolation.
Kate, in particular, has leveraged her platform to advance mental health causes. Her commitment, both publicly and privately, reinforces that small acts—like listening to a loved one—can make a significant difference.
A call to action
James Middleton’s story is a reminder that mental health is a shared journey. He urges those struggling to seek support from friends, family, or professionals. In the UK, resources like the BBC Actionline provide guidance for those in need, reinforcing that no one has to face their struggles alone.
Middleton also emphasized the power of small steps. For him, caring for Ella, talking with his sisters, and embracing vulnerability were critical to recovery. His story is a testament to the strength found in human and animal connections during crises.
