- Miss USA Noelia Voigt announced on May 6 that she would be stepping down from her role to focus on her mental health.
- It’s important to recognize the signs that your mental health may be declining so you can prioritize your health.
- Experts recommend eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and having a strong support network to take care of your mental health.
- Talking to a therapist or other mental health professional can also be helpful during difficult times.
Noelia Vogt, who was crowned Miss USA in September 2023, announced she is stepping down from her role to prioritize her mental health.
Vogt shared the news in an Instagram post on May 6th. She is the first Venezuelan-American woman to win the Miss USA title.
“In life, I strongly believe in the importance of making decisions that you feel are best for you and your mental health,” she wrote.
“My hope is that I continue to encourage others to remain strong, prioritize their mental health, and use their voice to advocate for themselves and others. And to continue to inspire you to never be afraid of the future, even when it feels uncertain.”
Vogt’s announcement was timely, considering May is Mental Health Awareness Month. The Miss USA organization said it supports Vogt’s decision.
“The titleholder’s health is our top priority and we understand that she needs to prioritize herself at this time,” the organization told HuffPost in a statement.
“The organization is currently considering a plan to transition responsibilities to a successor, and an announcement regarding the crowning of a new Miss USA is expected to be made soon.”
Anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues affect everyone differently, but being in the spotlight as a public figure or celebrity can be especially difficult.
“Public figures are constantly in the spotlight, have limited privacy and independence, and are subject to relentless surveillance,” Dr. Jennifer Berman, a psychologist at UTHealth Houston, told Healthline.
“They are expected to be flawless and flawless, and are often expected to be unaffected by life’s stressors. Therefore, they are more likely to be discouraged from showing weakness. They are still human beings who experience the same challenges as non-public figures, but they are at greater risk of scrutiny and experiencing stigma and discrimination against mental illness, which sadly continues to be the case.” explained Berman.
Celebrities also tend to have a greater influence on the general public. When celebrities speak out about mental health, it helps normalize the discussion for others.
“They can play a role in normalizing that not only is it okay to seek help when experiencing mental health concerns, but that you are not alone or unaffected by it. “We can do that,” Berman said.
As a result, some public figures may feel that they become the spokesperson for everything they say in public.
“It takes courage to be an advocate for mental health given the stigma attached to it, but speaking openly about mental health is also important in the process of destigmatizing mental health.” Northwell says Dr. Naomi Torres McKee, a clinical psychologist at Lenox Hill Hospital. he told Healthline.
“Being in the public eye can feel like a lot of pressure. Being constantly watched or feeling like your life isn’t yours can cause a lot of stress and have a negative impact on your mental health.” Pressure to perform can also have a negative impact on mental health.
There are several factors to consider when assessing your mental health.
“Watch for changes in your normal sleep and appetite patterns, as well as changes in your ability to concentrate,” Gerald Sanacola, MD, director of the Yale Depression Research Program at Yale School of Medicine, told Healthline.
“It can be even more concerning if changes in concentration are coupled with ruminative thought patterns that make it difficult to think about anything other than the one issue that’s upsetting you.”
Changes in energy and willingness to socialize with friends and family may also be a reason for concern.
Additionally, thoughts that make you question the value of life or that the world might be better off without you should be considered a cause for immediate concern.
“A dramatic change in any of these areas means it’s time to take a step back and reassess your current situation and how you’re managing the current stress levels you’re experiencing. “Maybe,” Sanacora explained.
When your ability to function in daily life begins to decline, your mental health may need attention.
“If you find yourself having trouble getting out of bed, neglecting your responsibilities, missing work or school, not enjoying things you used to enjoy, or withdrawing from social interactions, take a step back. It might be time to stop and pay attention to your own mental health,” Dr. Susan Albers, a clinical psychologist at the Cleveland Clinic, told Healthline.
Other signs that your mental health may be deteriorating include:
- persistent feelings of sadness
- anxiety
- irritation
- Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
- decreased concentration
“It’s important to listen to your body and mind and not ignore these warning signs. Other clues that your mental health is suffering include people around you expressing concern. You might get it from people,” Albers said.
“Friends and family may notice things you don’t see or recognize that you are not yourself. Remember that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.” Please don’t.
Prioritizing your mental health means giving yourself the time and attention you deserve every day to feel better.
“Start with the basics, like eating healthy and getting seven to nine hours of sleep each night,” Albers says.
Learning a wide range of coping and stress management skills is also important. This may also include:
“Surrounding yourself with a supportive network of friends and family who understand and respect your needs can be a game-changer,” Albers explained.
“If you are struggling with certain issues, consider seeking professional help from a therapist. Remember that your mental health is just as important as your physical health.Public Figure It’s okay to ask for help when you need it, whether you are or not.”
It may seem easier said than done, but developing the habit of putting your health first can go a long way.
“Sleep, exercise, time with loved ones, and relaxation habits should be non-negotiable parts of your week,” Torres Mackey recommends. “This kind of self-care can help prevent mental health conditions.”
You may also find that changing the way you think about mental health can help you accept it more.
“Understand that your mental health is just as important as your physical health and requires just as much care and attention. When you give mental health care importance, it becomes easier to prioritize it. ”Tressmackey said.
Miss USA Noelia Vogt has announced that she is stepping down from her role to focus on her mental health.
Signs it’s time to take a step back to prioritize your mental health include changes in appetite or sleep, difficulty concentrating, and persistent sadness.
Experts recommend having healthy eating habits, getting enough sleep, and surrounding yourself with supportive family and friends. You can also consult a therapist or mental health professional for additional support.
