During a candid and emotionally charged visit to Australia, Meghan Markle opened up to a group of students about the intense online scrutiny she has endured for more than a decade, revealing that at one point she felt like “the most trolled person in the world.” Her remarks came as part of a wider conversation on mental health and digital wellbeing, held alongside her husband, Prince Harry, during their four-day tour of the country

The couple’s visit, which spans multiple cities including Sydney and Melbourne, focuses on issues close to their public advocacy work—youth mental health, responsible technology use, and support for veterans. While the trip carries echoes of their past royal tours, it also reflects their current, more independent roles following their decision to step back from official royal duties in 2020.

Speaking at an event organized by the youth mental health organization Batyr, Meghan addressed a room full of students with striking honesty. She described the relentless nature of online abuse, explaining that for ten years she had faced criticism, harassment, and invasive commentary on a daily basis. Her words resonated strongly with the audience, many of whom have grown up navigating the pressures of social media themselves.

Rather than simply recounting her experience, Meghan expanded on the emotional toll such treatment can take. She spoke about moments of self-doubt and isolation, particularly during periods when public narratives about her life felt overwhelming and inescapable. Adding a new layer to her story, she revealed that there were times when she deliberately avoided reading any news or comments about herself, relying instead on close friends and family to help her stay grounded. She also shared that creative outlets—such as journaling and cooking—became essential ways for her to regain a sense of control and calm amid the noise.

Prince Harry, who joined the discussion, took a broader perspective on the issue of online safety. He praised Australia’s recent legislative efforts to limit social media access for younger users, describing the country’s approach as a bold example of leadership. In December, Australia became the first nation to ban social media use for children under 16, restricting access to platforms like TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook. While acknowledging that such policies can be debated, Harry emphasized that taking responsibility for the wellbeing of younger generations is what truly matters.

He went on to share his own concerns about the long-term effects of digital environments on mental health, particularly for teenagers. Drawing from personal experience, Harry noted that the pressures of constant connectivity can amplify anxiety and make it harder for individuals to disconnect from negativity. He encouraged the students to think critically about how they use technology and to prioritize real-world connections whenever possible.

The discussion at Batyr was notably interactive, with students asking questions about resilience, identity, and dealing with public judgment. Meghan responded thoughtfully, encouraging young people to define themselves beyond online perceptions. She stressed that while social media can be a powerful tool for connection and creativity, it should not become the sole measure of one’s worth. At one point, she shared an anecdote about receiving a heartfelt letter from a young girl who had been inspired by her advocacy work—a reminder, she said, that positivity often exists quietly, even when negativity seems louder.

Beyond the formal event, the couple’s itinerary in Australia has included a mix of public engagements and more निजी initiatives. Prince Harry spent time meeting military veterans, continuing his longstanding commitment to supporting those who have served. Meanwhile, Meghan made a guest appearance on MasterChef Australia, where she participated as a guest judge. According to reports, her appearance brought a lighter, more personal dimension to the trip, showcasing her interest in food and storytelling.

Adding another layer to their visit, Meghan is also co-hosting a wellness retreat in Sydney over the weekend. The event, which includes activities such as yoga, mindfulness sessions, and sound healing, reflects her growing focus on holistic wellbeing. Sources suggest that the retreat will also feature small-group discussions on managing stress and building emotional resilience—topics closely aligned with the themes she addressed in her talk with students.

Despite the positive aspects of their visit, public reaction in Australia has been mixed. While many have welcomed the couple and expressed support for their advocacy work, others have raised concerns about the costs associated with their security and logistics. Reports of a petition signed by tens of thousands of people highlight ongoing debates about the role and relevance of the British monarchy in Australia, where Charles III remains the head of state.

This contrast in public opinion underscores the complex relationship Australia has with the monarchy—a dynamic that has evolved significantly over time. It also reflects the unique position Harry and Meghan occupy as figures who straddle both royal tradition and modern celebrity culture.

Their current visit inevitably draws comparisons to their 2018 tour of Australia, which took place while they were still senior working royals. That trip was marked by widespread , particularly after the couple announced Meghan’s first pregnancy shortly after arriving in Sydney. In contrast, their 2026 visit feels more independent and purpose-driven, shaped by their personal priorities rather than official royal duties.

Throughout the tour, one theme has remained consistent: the importance of mental health in an increasingly digital world. Meghan’s candid admission about being heavily trolled serves not only as a reflection of her own experience but also as a broader commentary on the culture of online interaction. By sharing her story, she aimed to create a sense of understanding and solidarity, particularly for young people who may be facing similar challenges on a smaller scale.

Prince Harry reinforced this message by urging both individuals and institutions to take responsibility for creating safer online environments. He suggested that meaningful change will require collaboration between governments, technology companies, educators, and communities. At the same time, he emphasized that personal awareness—how individuals choose to engage with social media—remains a crucial part of the solution.

As their trip continues, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex appear focused on using their platform to spark conversations that extend beyond headlines. Whether through formal discussions, media appearances, or smaller meetings, they are working to highlight issues that affect people across different backgrounds and age groups.

For the students who attended the Batyr event, Meghan’s words are likely to leave a lasting impression. Her willingness to speak openly about vulnerability and resilience offered a powerful reminder that even those in the public eye are not immune to the challenges of modern life. More importantly, it demonstrated that difficult experiences can be transformed into opportunities for connection and change.

In the end, the visit is about more than a series of engagements—it is about shaping dialogue. By addressing topics like online behavior, mental health, and personal identity, Harry and Meghan are contributing to a growing global conversation about how society can adapt to the realities of the digital age. And in sharing her story, Meghan has added a deeply personal voice to that conversation, one that continues to resonate far beyond the room where she first spoke.