Kate Middleton on the 'Sheer, Overwhelming' Experience of Motherhood and 'Terrible' London Terror Attack

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Kate Middleton has opened up about the challenges of parenting, admitting that despite being blessed with lots of help, she has at times felt completely overwhelmed by “what it means to be a mother.”

The 35-year-old royal made a rare and moving speech at a charity event for U.K. child health organization Best Beginnings on Thursday.


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“Personally, becoming a mother has been such a rewarding and wonderful experience,” said Middleton, looking radiant in a plaid, coral outfit. “However, at times it has also been a huge challenge. Even for me, who has support at home that most mothers do not.”

“Nothing can really prepare you for the sheer, overwhelming experience of what it means to become a mother,” she continued. “It’s full of complex emotions of joy, exhaustion, love, and worry, all mixed together.”

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Getty Images

Introducing Out of the Blue -- a collection of educational films about maternal mental health -- Middleton noted that struggling new moms should remember there’s no right or wrong when it comes to parenting.

“There is no rule book, no right or wrong; you just have to make it up and do the very best you can to care for your family,” she said. “For many mothers, myself included, this can at times lead to a lack of confidence and feelings of ignorance. Sadly, for some mothers, this experience can be made so much harder due to challenges with our very mental health.”

The mom-of-two also addressed the tragic terror attack that left three people dead and dozens injured in London on Wednesday.

“Before I begin, I know that you’d all want to join me in sending our thoughts and prayers to all those sadly affected by yesterday’s terrible attacks in Westminster,” she said. “We will be thinking of all the families as we discuss the important issues we’re here to talk about.”

Meanwhile, the queen cancelled a scheduled appearance at New Scotland Yard following the tragedy.

“Following the shocking events in Westminster, Prince Philip and I are sorry that we will not be able to open the New Scotland Yard building as planned today, for very understandable reasons,” the royal announced in a statement. “I look forward to visiting at a later date.”


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“My thoughts, prayers, and deepest sympathy are with all those who have been affected by yesterday's awful violence,” the note continued. “I know I speak for everyone in expressing my enduring thanks and admiration for the members of the Metropolitan Police Service and all who work so selflessly to help and protect others.”

See more on Middleton and Prince William below.

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