Meghan Markle reveals why she spoke up about her suicidal thoughts

Meghan Markle has opened up about her struggles with mental health in the wake of the birth of her first child with Prince Harry at a glamorous, high-profile ball.

The dolled-up duo attended the glitzy Robert F. Kennedy Ripple of Hope Award Gala in New York City, with Prince Harry telling the crowds that 'sharing experiences and sharing stories has an enormous impact' on others.

The former members of the Royal Family got up on stage to take part in an on-stage interview with Kerry Kennedy, the daughter of former US senator Robert F. Kennedy, to openly discuss Markle's struggles at the Palace.

"I don’t want anyone to feel alone," Markle said to the crowd.

"We all need to, when we can, if we feel brave enough, just speak honestly about your own experience."

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She added: "It gives other people the space and courage to do the same, but more than that, to 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 former Suits actor told the crowd of notable faces, including Alec Baldwin, Blake Lively, and Ryan Reynolds, that by opening up to the world you can be a guiding light to others.

“Ultimately, if you feel like there’s someone else that has a lived experience, 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,” Markle said.

She added that is the reason why she decided to act as that beacon of hope.

Markle said: "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 added: "We collectively can heal together if we share our stories."

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Markle previously opened up with Oprah about her struggles with her mental health during their bombshell interview about the Royal Family, life at Buckingham Palace, and how she contemplated suicide.

The former Deal or No Deal model claimed 'senior people' within the Palace told her it wouldn't be good for the institution if it was revealed she was getting professional help for her issues.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle also received an award for their activism at the Ripple of Hope Award Gala.

Netflix's documentary about the former working royals, Harry & Meghan, will drop on December 8.