Amy Willerton, renowned model and television presenter, recently shared insights into the mental health challenges of the modelling industry and its cultural dynamics. In an exclusive interview with Platinum Spas, she candidly discussed the pressures associated with maintaining self-confidence and the industry’s evolving nature.
Willerton highlighted the intense pressures models face regarding appearance and self-assurance. She noted that, like any profession, modelling comes with its own set of challenges, particularly in sustaining self-confidence during shoots. Reflecting on her experiences, she acknowledged moments of self-doubt, even following significant achievements like her 2013 crown as Miss Universe Great Britain and her participation in I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! She emphasised that external accolades do not always translate to internal confidence: “No matter what the external will say, it will come down to whether I feel confident and good about myself.”
Motherhood introduced additional complexities to Willerton’s self-perception. She described experiencing an identity crisis post-pregnancy, feeling disconnected from her body and doubting her ability to return to her previous form. However, a transformative period in Ibiza allowed her to focus on health and self-care, leading to renewed confidence. She underscored the importance of internal well-being, noting, “Your external will always be reflected on what’s going on internally, and that’s why people go on about meditating and the internal world.”
Contrary to common perceptions of competitiveness, Willerton found the pageant world to be supportive. She observed that participants often possess self-confidence and dedication, which fosters a positive environment. She remarked, “The place I found that was the least bitchy with women was in pageants because a lot of the girls have self-confidence.” Willerton suggested that personal insecurities can lead to negative perceptions of others, advising individuals to reflect on their own feelings to better understand their reactions.
Addressing those interested in modelling, Willerton acknowledged the industry’s evolution, with opportunities arising through social media and reality television. She recommended that aspiring models identify their passions and pursue paths aligning with their goals. Sharing her journey from working in a shop in Bristol to competing in Miss Universe, she highlighted the importance of preparation and self-awareness. She advised, “Ask yourself what life you want to live and just follow through from there.”
Beyond modelling, Willerton is an advocate for mental well-being. She has engaged in practices such as Vipassana, a 10-day silent meditation, to gain deeper self-understanding. Additionally, she incorporates regular juice cleanses and maintains a flexible approach to diet, listening to her body’s needs. Her commitment to well-being extends to physical activities like yoga, which she credits with fostering a strong mind-body connection.
Amy Willerton’s experiences shed light on the multifaceted nature of the modelling industry, emphasising the significance of internal confidence and self-care in navigating its challenges.
