For many people around the world, the idea of Markle having suicidal thoughts was truly shocking. Despite the racism, media attacks, and riffs with the royal family, Markle and her husband Prince Harry were often photographed as a happy couple.
When Markle told Prince Harry about her suicidal thoughts, she did so because he was expected at an event and she didn’t feel comfortable being left alone with her thoughts. So they both dressed for and attended the event.
Later, Markle said a friend commented on how great she looked at the event. “A friend said, ‘I know you don’t look at pictures, but, oh, my god, you guys look so great,’” Markle said. “I zoomed in, and what I saw was the truth of what that moment was.”
For too many people around the world, Markle’s words were alarmingly familiar. Someone in the world dies of suicide every 40 seconds, on average. More people have suicidal thoughts and attempts. And often, they look just as happy on the outside as Markle.