Princess Eugenie's touching tribute to friend who died by suicide

Princess Eugenie has shared a tribute to a close friend who died by suicide at age 21.

In a post on her Instagram page, the 28-year-old royal commemorated James Wentworth-Stanley, who took his own life in 2007. She also praised a new men’s suicide prevention centre called James’ Place, which was founded by James’ mother, Clare Mountbatten, and officially opened by Prince William on June 19.

“What an amazing achievement for this incredibly inspiring woman Clare,” Princess Eugenie said in the post.

“Her vision of a place where men in suicidal crisis can get the face to face help they need in a non-clinical environment has become a reality this week.

“This will inevitably save many lives in her son James’ memory who we miss every day. So proud of you all.”

James committed suicide after experiencing anxiety about the outcome of an operation he had undergone.

The 21-year-old sought help from medical staff at a walk-in centre, even telling staff he was feeling suicidal.

However, the young man was referred to a clinic as a low priority, category four (minor illness). 

He sat on his own waiting to be seen for some time, his anxiety mounting by the second. In the end, too much time passed, and without speaking to anyone, James got up and walked out. He took his own life two days later.

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“When I reflected on what had happened to James when he went looking for reassurance for his anxiety in Newcastle, it occurred to me that there was really nowhere that would have provided him with the urgent help he needed,” she said in a post on Instagram.

“The more I listened to professionals in this field the more frustrated I became because people in crisis were being signposted down a pathway to nowhere. 

“I feel sure that had such a place been in existence in 2006, James would still be with us today.” 

Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467 or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.