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The Princess of Wales has emphasized the urgent need to eliminate the “stigma” associated with addiction, calling on society to respond with “empathy and support” toward those affected by dependencies on alcohol, drugs, or gambling. Her statement was issued to coincide with Addiction Awareness Week, an initiative running from November 23 to 30, which aims to raise awareness about addiction and dismantle the barriers to seeking help.
Catherine, who serves as patron of The Forward Trust, a charity dedicated to breaking the cycle of addiction, acknowledged that while notable strides have been made in understanding addiction, much work remains. Drawing from her experience advocating for mental health, she highlighted the parallels between addiction and other mental health conditions. She stressed that addiction should not be viewed as a personal choice or moral failing but recognized as a complex mental health issue deserving of compassion.
In her message, Catherine expressed concern that despite advances, many people’s experiences of addiction are still tainted by fear, shame, and judgement, which perpetuate secrecy and prevent effective support. “The stigma surrounding those who face addiction allows it to thrive behind closed doors, impacting families and communities, and ultimately ruining lives,” she said. Urging the public to adopt a more compassionate approach, the princess encouraged people to reach out to organizations such as The Forward Trust and stressed that recovery, though challenging, is achievable with proper treatment, beginning with open dialogue and genuine care.
This campaign was first established by Catherine in 2021, coinciding with the launch of the Forward Trust’s Taking Action on Addiction initiative. She concluded her appeal by advocating for open conversations that can bring addiction and its harms “out of the shadows.” The Princess of Wales has previously voiced her support for those affected by addiction, most notably in 2022, when she emphasized that shame should not deter individuals from seeking help.
Additionally, former England and Arsenal captain Tony Adams, who experienced addiction for over a decade, contributed a video highlighting the importance of open dialogue in recovery. He credits a conversation with his mother-in-law as his turning point, urging others struggling with addiction or mental health issues to seek assistance: “The greatest thing I ever did was to say, ‘I can’t do this.’” As chairman of trustees at The Forward Trust, Adams supports the charity’s work, which includes providing employment assistance and tackling addiction problems within the prison system. Prior to becoming the trust’s patron, Catherine visited its substance misuse services at HMP Send, a women’s prison in Surrey. The charity also advocates for greater acknowledgment of gambling problems inside prisons
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