In a recent interview while promoting his new memoir, James Middleton, the younger brother of Kate Middleton, opened up about family therapy dynamics, revealing that it was more manageable for his sisters, Kate and Pippa, than for their parents.
Titled *Meet Ella: The Dog Who Changed My Life*, the book delves into James’s personal battle with depression, including a harrowing period in 2017 when he faced suicidal thoughts.
At 37, James reflects on not just his journey but also how it has intertwined with the lives of his family members.
In an exclusive conversation with Hello!, he discussed the impact of family therapy sessions, highlighting the emotional struggles of his parents, Michael and Carole Middleton.
They found it particularly challenging, grappling with feelings of guilt and wondering where they might have faltered in raising their children.
One poignant moment shared in the memoir details how James, confronted by overwhelming despair, found solace in thoughts of his beloved dog, Ella.
It was her presence that ultimately pulled him back from the brink during his darkest days.
By late 2017, he granted permission for his therapist to involve his concerned parents and sisters in discussions about his mental health, describing this as akin to having a “translator” for the family.
James pointed out that the initial experience was tougher for his parents because they perceived it as a personal failure.
“It was easier for my sisters,” he noted, emphasizing the critical role of an impartial mediator in helping his parents understand that his struggles weren’t a reflection of their parenting skills.
As the therapy sessions progressed, James started to gain insight into his own emotions, which allowed his sisters to also engage in meaningful conversations with their parents.
Today, mental health discussions have become a regular part of family life, transforming their interactions into more open dialogues rather than taboo subjects.
In a recent excerpt from *Meet Ella*, James expressed pride in how his family has grown closer through these experiences.
He told PEOPLE that the newfound openness surrounding mental health among family members is a significant positive outcome of their shared experiences in therapy.
Alongside his parents and sisters, James has embraced fatherhood himself, welcoming a son named Inigo with his wife, Alizee, last October.
He shared how his family has rallied around him, emphasizing that the warmth of familial support is immeasurable, and it has only strengthened their bonds.
Reflecting on his writing process, James described it as a profound journey.
He hopes his son will learn about mental health from an early age, sparing him from some of the painful experiences James endured during his own youth.
Since joining the royal family in 2011, Kate has been a champion for mental health awareness.
Recently, she has faced her own health challenges, publicly sharing her cancer diagnosis earlier this year, followed by her completion of chemotherapy in September.
James expressed immense admiration for his sister, recognizing the pressures she faces and supporting her endeavors wholeheartedly.
He has taken to social media to share encouragement with Kate, reminding her that their family will face challenges together, just as they have in the past.
His message highlights the universal nature of facing obstacles, irrespective of one’s background or status.
The bond between James and Ella, his cherished dog, played a pivotal role throughout his struggles.
Ella, who passed away earlier this year at age 15, was not just a pet but a source of unwavering support.
James believes that Ella had a sense of Alizee’s pregnancy, choosing her timing to depart thoughtfully.
He acknowledges that without Ella’s companionship, he might not be here today, expressing deep gratitude for the joy she brought into his life.
For anyone grappling with thoughts of suicide or facing a crisis, it is vital to seek help.
Resources like the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline are available for those in need.
