Britain’s Prince Harry hopes the Invictus Games will inspire people battling mental health conditions to seek help.
The 31-year-old royal – who founded the games for injured veterans two years ago – wants people to understand the sporting event doesn’t just recognise the physical obstacles the participants have endured, but also the mental.
He said: "Every single one of them will have confronted tremendous emotional and mental challenges. When we give a standing ovation to the competitor with the missing limbs, let’s also cheer our hearts out for the man who overcame anxiety so severe he couldn’t leave his house.
"Let’s cheer for the woman who fought through post-traumatic stress and let’s celebrate the soldier who was brave enough to get help for his depression.
"To those of you watching at home and who are suffering from mental illness in silence – whether a veteran or a civilian, a mum or a dad, a teenager or a grandparent – I hope you see the bravery of our Invictus champions who have confronted invisible injuries and I hope you are inspired to ask for the help that you need."
Meanwhile, this is the second time the Games, which sees athletes from 14 countries compete over four days, has taken place after its debut in London in 2014.
The Invictus Games are currently underway in Florida.
Prince Harry wants Invictus Games to help people battling with mental health
