Meghan spoke about having suicidal thoughts while she was part of the royal family during an interview last night.
The Duchess of Sussex told those at the Ripple of Hope Gala in New York City that she went public with her struggle because she "doesn't want anyone to feel alone."
Meghan also spoke about how many people around the world felt the way she did during isolation from the Covid-19 lockdowns.
Meghan and her husband Prince Harry were at the glamorous award ceremony which honours individuals for their charitable efforts.
They won the prestigious Robert F. Kennedy Ripple of Hope Award for challenging The Firm's "power structure".
Former recipients of the award include Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton.
John F Kennedy's niece Kerry Kennedy, host of the awards, said the pair took a brave stance against the royals, knowing they would be ostracised as a result.
During the gala interview, Meghan was asked about her decision to speak about her suicidal thoughts in the 2021 Oprah Winfrey interview.
Meghan said: "It wasn't an easy decision to make, as you can imagine."
She continued: "When you've been through anything that's challenging, and everyone, especially in the past few years with lockdown and COVID, that spike in numbers of people having an experience they might not be voicing.
"We all need to, when we can, if we feel brave enough, just speak honestly about your own experience.
"It gives other people space and the courage to do the same, but more than that to really feel like you're not alone because I think that is often what can be the largest hindrance when you feel that way, you don't see a way out."
The Duchess also said that while she felt "ashamed" to admit her feelings, she feared not doing so would have devastating consequences.
She said: "I knew that if I didn't say it, then I would do it. I just didn't want to be alive anymore.
"But ultimately, if you feel like there's someone else that has a lived experience and they've gotten to the other side and gave an example of resilience, an example of 'there is a happy ending', I think that's what most people are probably seeking out in those moments.
"And that's why I made the decision to just say 'if my experience can help someone else not feel the same way or to know that there's hope then it's worth every second of whatever comes with it.'"
Prince Harry also urged others to share stories of their own struggles.
He said: "Ninety-nine per cent of people on planet earth are dealing with some form of trauma, loss or pain even more so since 2020.
"But you've got to lead from the front – society as we know is not made up to encourage vulnerability. We collectively can heal together if we share our stories."
*If you're struggling and need to talk, the Samaritans operate a free helpline open 24/7 on 116 123. Alternatively, you can email jo@samaritans.org or visit their site to find your local branch
