Princess Mary says 'we all have a role to play' in helping others suffering in isolation

Crown Princess Mary of Denmark says "we all have a role to play" in helping the community during widespread lockdowns because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The Danish royal issued a statement through her charity The Mary Foundation, urging everyone to think of those who may be struggling in isolation.

"We all have a role to play," the Crown Princess said. "By being more open and tolerant we can each make a difference for the many who stand alone."

Crown Princess Mary and her children are now in isolation in Amalienborg Palace, in Copenhagen, as royal families throughout Europe and the rest of the world ride out the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Australian-born royal has long championed against loneliness and the need to include those members of society at risk of isolation.

Loneliness is one of the three key areas of action taken by The Mary Foundation, which was created by the Crown Princess soon after her wedding to Crown Prince Frederik in 2004.

"Help each other out of solitude," Mary's message continued. "These days, we all sense how much family, friends, and other social relationships mean to us. And what it does to us when that part of our lives is missing.

"For some people, this time is particularly difficult. If you live alone, for example, the feeling of loneliness can become very violent. And for people who already feel lonely, this period can exacerbate the feeling of loneliness.

"Ultimately, severe loneliness can have serious consequences both mentally and physically.

"Therefore, as long as it stands, we must make a special effort to help each other out of solitude - even if it is at a distance.

"In the coming time, we will try to inspire how we can all help each other out of loneliness. We will also give good advice to those who feel lonely."

The photo of Mary used to accompany the statement was taken during the recent launch of a report on social exclusion in Denmark.

On March 12, the Crown Prince family cut short their three-month stay in Switzerland to return to Denmark due to the virus.

Mary and Frederik said they made the decision because it was "most natural to return home and stand with the Danes".

Queen Margrethe II of Denmark also cancelled nation-wide celebrations to mark her 80th birthday in April and June.