Catherine, Princess of Wales, has called for increased compassion towards individuals struggling with addiction, stating that it is “not a choice.” As the patron of the Forward Trust, an organization dedicated to supporting recovering addicts, she emphasizes the need to dismantle the stigma surrounding addiction. Her comments come in observance of Addiction Awareness Week, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by those dependent on substances or gambling.
In her message, Catherine articulated that addiction is a “complex mental health condition” that should be met with empathy rather than “fear, shame and judgement.” She expressed concern that despite societal progress, many people still experience stigma that can exacerbate their struggles. “This needs to change,” she stated. The Princess pointed out that the negative perceptions surrounding addiction contribute to its persistence, often harming families and communities.
Catherine urged the public to demonstrate “kindness and understanding,” encouraging open dialogues about addiction and its consequences. “Recovery is hard, but with the right treatment it is possible. And this begins with a conversation, a listening ear and showing we care,” she said. Her message is a call to action for individuals to reach out for help, whether for themselves or for their loved ones.
The urgency of this conversation is underscored by recent findings from a survey conducted by the Forward Trust, which revealed that over half of the 2,124 respondents either have personal experience with addiction or know someone who does. Among those with direct experience, a significant portion reported discomfort discussing their addiction with various parties. Specifically, 53 percent would hesitate to speak about their situation with an employer, while 35 percent would feel uneasy confiding in a close family member.
Former England football captain Tony Adams, who is also a recovering alcoholic and chair of trustees at the organization, echoed the Princess’s sentiments. He encouraged those grappling with addiction to seek assistance, recalling his own pivotal moment when he admitted, “I can’t do this.”
Catherine’s advocacy aims to illuminate the conversation surrounding addiction, providing a platform for individuals to feel supported rather than isolated. “Now is the moment to show our compassion and love to help them,” she emphasized, urging society to support initiatives like the Forward Trust. By openly discussing addiction, the goal is to bring the issue out of the shadows and into a space where it can be addressed with understanding and care.
As the discourse on addiction continues to evolve, Catherine’s message remains clear: compassion and support are vital in helping individuals and families navigate the complex challenges of addiction. The Princess’s remarks serve as a reminder that with collective effort, it is possible to foster a more empathetic society that prioritizes recovery and well-being.
