Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are collectively on a mission to encourage families to disconnect from their devices and immerse themselves in the present moment. Their recent virtual appearance at an Oprah Winfrey book launch hosted by Gayle King turned the spotlight on this pressing issue, which has resonated strongly with parents around the world.
During this January 7 event, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex joined authors Jonathan Haidt and Catherine Price to discuss their new book, “The Amazing Generation.” The book addresses the alarming effects of excessive digital consumption among children and advocates for a reconnection with the real world. This initiative reflects their longstanding commitment to mental health and wellness, not just for adults, but for children as well.
Prince Harry articulated the couple’s concerns about the pervasive impact of digital spaces on emotional and mental well-being. “Over the years, we’ve seen how deeply digital spaces are affecting our collective mental, emotional, and physical health,” he said. His note of appreciation for the authors’ research underscores the importance of knowledge-driven action in creating a healthier digital landscape for kids and families.
Meghan shared her reflections on their role in this movement, expressing how “proud” they are to contribute to a cause that promotes mental health and well-being. The couple has been vocal advocates against cyberbullying and the detrimental effects of social media. They took the opportunity to share insights into how they are applying the book’s philosophies in their own parenting with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
One of Meghan’s poignant observations centered around the importance of physical interactions. “You can’t replace the feeling of a deep, guttural belly laugh,” she stated, contrasting authentic joy with the mere digital representation of it—emojis. She emphasized that encouraging real-life interactions not only benefits children but also fosters a more present and engaged parenting experience.
The theme of cellphone safety and its correlation with youth mental health has emerged as central to the Sussexes’ advocacy initiatives. Through The Parents’ Network, a division of their Archewell Philanthropies, they’ve been at the forefront of campaigns aimed at safeguarding children online. Their advocacy extends to challenging major tech leaders, including Meta’s CEO Mark Zuckerberg, to take accountability for the adverse effects of their platforms.
In April 2025, they made headlines with the unveiling of “The Lost Screen Memorial” in New York City. This poignant installation featured 50 smartphones, each displaying the image of a child whose life was tragically cut short due to the negative impacts of social media. This project illustrated the harsh realities that can accompany digital engagement, bringing awareness to an often-overlooked issue.
Rewind to October 2023, the couple appeared at a discussion for World Mental Health Day in New York City, where they voiced their concerns about online dangers. They highlighted that even “the best parenting in the world” cannot shield children from the threats posed by these platforms. “Everyone now is affected by the online world and social media,” Harry remarked, emphasizing the collective need for safety and support in digital spaces.
The engagement of Meghan and Harry in advocating for children’s mental health and online safety is clearly a personal crusade, rooted in their experiences and observations as parents themselves. Their journey reflects a deeper societal conversation about the implications of our digital lifestyles and serves as a call to action for families globally to prioritize connection over consumption.