Prince Harry Delivers Powerful Message at Jordan Rehabilitation Centre
During a significant visit to Jordan, Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, emphasised the importance of mental health and addiction recovery at a leading treatment facility. The royal couple spent their second day in the country at the National Centre for Rehabilitation of Addicts in Amman, where they engaged with recovering individuals and praised the centre's holistic approach.
Royal Support for Holistic Recovery Methods
The Duke and Duchess listened attentively as men shared personal stories about the emotional toll of substance abuse and the transformative support provided by the centre. They described the facility's work as "incredible", highlighting its comprehensive programmes that include gym sessions and yoga classes alongside traditional medical and psychological care.
Prince Harry delivered an inspiring address to a group of recovered addicts, many of whom now serve as mentors at the centre. He stated, "I want you guys to know there's no shame in having an addiction, it stems from something else which is an emotional pain – you're very, very brave to come here into hospital."
Encouraging Community Outreach and New Habits
The Duke urged the individuals to leverage their experiences to assist others facing similar challenges. "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," he advised. During a tour of the gym, Harry chatted with a man using a rowing machine, inquiring about his post-treatment plans. When the man confirmed he would continue exercising, Harry responded, "New habits, good habits rather than bad habit – we all have bad habits."
Meghan observed a yoga class, introducing herself to participants holding poses on the floor. The centre, operating under the Ministry of Health's National Centre for Mental Health, has a 40-bed capacity and has provided short-term residential and outpatient treatment since its inauguration in 2001. Services include:
- Medical withdrawal support
- Psychological counselling
- Social guidance and rehabilitation
Messages of Support with WHO Delegation
The visit was conducted alongside a World Health Organisation delegation, including Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesu, who invited the couple to Jordan. Both Harry and Meghan left handwritten notes of encouragement on a communal wall. Harry's message on a sticky-note read: "It's ok to not be ok. Trust each other. Congratulations on your recovery. Now share your courage and experience."
Meghan wrote in italic script: "Congratulations on your dedication to your care. Wishing you continued healing and happiness." These gestures underscored the royal couple's commitment to destigmatising addiction and promoting mental wellness globally.
