'You must not silently suffer': Prince Harry's anti-suicide message to Aussie farmers

Prince Harry has urged Australian farmers struggling with drought conditions not to suffer in silence.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex visited the remote New South Wales Australian town of Dubbo on Wednesday.

In his speech to those gathered, he acknowledged the pressure the drought is putting on farmers.

"We know that suicide rates in rural and remote areas are greater than in urban populations, and this may be especially true among young men in remote regions," he said.

"But outside all of that, here's what I also know: you are one huge community, and with that comes an unparalleled level of internal support and understanding."

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle met with farmers struggling with drought.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle met with farmers struggling with drought. Photo credit: Newshub

He urged those suffering to speak up.

"All you need to do is to ask for it. Ask your neighbour, your peer - your fellow farmer is literally right around the corner, " said Prince Harry.

"Chances are they may well be suffering too and will relish the opportunity to either listen or talk themselves."

He also touched on his own struggle with depression and mental health.

"You must not silently suffer. You are all in this together - and if I may speak personally, we are all in this together, because asking for help was one of the best decisions that I ever made," he said

"You will be continually amazed how life changes for the better."

Suicide is the leading cause of death in Australian men aged 15 to 44.

Where to find help and support:

Newshub.