Kate Middleton's brother James' revealing move is 'surprising' but Princess was 'key' to recovery

James Middleton, the younger brother of Kate Middleton, has shocked everyone by announcing that he will be discussing his struggle with depression in his upcoming book.

His mental health journey will be detailed in his memoir 'Meet Ella: The Dog Who Saved My Life', which is set to hit the shelves tomorrow (Tuesday 24 September). As James prepares to share his story, a top Royal expert has shared her thoughts on why he feels it's crucial to tell his tale.

Veteran former BBC Royal correspondent Jennie Bond told OK!: "I must admit I'm surprised that Catherine's brother has chosen to go so public with his battle with depression or indeed any aspect of his private life. But I suppose it is very much in keeping with the ethos that it's ok to be not ok, that it's healthy to talk about mental health, and that heads together are much better than battling on alone. His story is one of hope: that there is a way back from even the darkest of places especially with the support of a very loving family.

"Catherine and Pippa were both clearly key to helping him recover. If he was happy to do so then, yes, it might prove very effective for James to work with William on some mental health campaigns. But he may not want that public profile. It's just good to know that, with the right support, it is possible to see life in a more positive light."

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In fragments from his newly released book, James confessed that during his darkest hours he suffered from sleepless nights leading him to utter fatigue.

He penned in his memoir: "I feel misunderstood; a complete failure. I wouldn't wish the sense of worthlessness and desperation, the isolation and loneliness, on my worst enemy. I think I'm going crazy."

James Middleton has previously been candid about his mental health battles. Echoing sentiments from prior years, in an Instagram post back in 2019, James revealed: "Not that long ago I had forgotten what it was like to laugh with genuine happiness- today I don't have to pretend to smile. I am not cured from depression I don't think there is one. However, I have learnt the tools to keep control."

Ever since his first public admission, James has consistently expressed how pivotal his dogs, Ella, Inca, Luna, Zulu, and Mabel, along with his spouse Alizee Thevenet were in supporting him through his therapeutic journey.