Meghan Markle says she's 'not okay' in an emotional new TV interview

Since joining the royal family, Meghan Markle has appeared calm and composed even when faced with an onslaught of criticism - whether because she dared to wear dark nail varnish or because she 'touched her bump too much' (sigh).

However, in a rare display of vulnerability, the Duchess of Sussex has said that she's 'not okay'.

The couple were joined by ITV News presenter Tom Bradby on their royal tour in Africa last month. During the trip they were filmed and interviewed for a new documentary, Harry & Meghan: An African Journey, which airs Sunday at 9pm on ITV.

Earlier this week, it was revealed that Harry speaks candidly about Princess Diana during the documentary, explaining that flashing cameras are the 'worst reminder' of his mother's death.

And in another short clip, Meghan Markle gives a very emotional interview that's quite difficult to watch.

Tom Bradby asks the Duchess of Sussex about her physical and mental heath, and how she is dealing with the intense scrutiny and pressure that she 'very clearly' feels.

Pausing for a moment to think and looking close to tears, Meghan slowly replies: 'Look, any woman, especially when they're pregnant, you're really vulnerable, and so that was made really challenging.

'And then when you have a newborn - you know?'

She pauses, before adding: 'And especially as a woman, it's really — it's a lot. So you add this on top of just trying to be a new mom or trying to be a newlywed, it's ...' but, clearly overcome with emotion, she cannot finish her sentence.

She then makes a heartbreaking statement, telling Tom Bradby: 'Yeah, and also I thank you for asking, because not many people have asked if I'm okay. But it's a very real thing to be going through behind the scenes.'

He then asks her: 'And the answer is, it would be fair to say, not really okay? As in, it's really been a struggle?'

'Yes,' she replies.

Prince Harry released a statement earlier this month revealing that he and Meghan would be suing a British tabloid for publishing personal letters between her and her dad, Thomas Markle.

In it, he said: 'My deepest fear is history repeating itself."

'I’ve seen what happens when someone I love is commoditised to the point that they are no longer treated or seen as a real person. I lost my mother and now I watch my wife falling victim to the same powerful forces.'