The Duke and Duchess of Sussex delivered a powerful message of support during a visit to the National Centre for Rehabilitation of Addicts in Amman, Jordan, on Thursday. Prince Harry emphasised that there should be no shame associated with addiction, encouraging recovered users to become mentors in their own communities.
Royal Visit to Rehabilitation Centre
During their second day in Jordan, the royal couple toured the facility that operates under the Ministry of Health's National Centre for Mental Health. They listened intently as men described the emotional toll of substance abuse and the comprehensive support they've received through the centre's programs.
Harry's Message of Hope and Recovery
After speaking with a former addict who now serves as a mentor at the centre, Prince Harry addressed the group with heartfelt words. "I want you guys to know there's no shame in having an addiction," he told them. "It stems from something else which is an emotional pain – you're very, very brave to come here into hospital."
The Duke continued with practical advice for those in recovery: "Now what you need to do is use this experience and go back into your communities and help other people who are in a similar situation."
Holistic Approach to Treatment
The couple expressed admiration for the centre's holistic methodology, which includes physical activities alongside traditional treatment. During their tour, they visited the gym where recovering addicts were using rowing machines, and Harry engaged one man in conversation about maintaining healthy habits after leaving the facility.
"New habits, good habits rather than bad habit – we all have bad habits," Harry remarked when the man confirmed he would continue exercising post-treatment.
Meghan observed a yoga class in session, watching men hold poses on the floor before introducing herself to participants. The centre offers a range of therapeutic activities as part of its comprehensive approach to addiction recovery.
Centre's History and Services
Established in 2001, the National Centre for Rehabilitation of Addicts operates with a 40-bed capacity and serves as both a short-term residential facility and outpatient treatment centre. Its services include:
- Medical withdrawal management
- Psychological support programs
- Social counselling services
- Physical fitness activities
- Mindfulness and yoga classes
Messages of Support
The Sussexes joined a World Health Organisation delegation during their visit, including Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesu, who had invited the couple to Jordan. Both Harry and Meghan left handwritten notes of encouragement on a communal wall.
Prince Harry wrote: "It's ok to not be ok. Trust each other. Congratulations on your recovery. Now share your courage and experience."
Meghan added in elegant script: "Congratulations on your dedication to your care. Wishing you continued healing and happiness."
The visit highlighted the couple's ongoing commitment to mental health advocacy and addiction recovery support, with Harry drawing from his own experiences with trauma and therapy to connect meaningfully with those in treatment.
