ANTM Winner's Secret Struggle: Addiction & Eating Disorder

Sophie Sumner, the first British winner of America's Next Top Model, has revealed the profound toll intense post-win pressure took on her mental health. She admitted to spiraling into alcoholism and a severe eating disorder, specifically bulimia, despite her public success. Sumner described the constant internal arithmetic of calorie counting and the agonizing cycle of binging and purging.

Her struggle intensified, leading to a significant physical and mental decline, impacting her career and self-worth. Sumner shared that the relentless pursuit of thinness, a prevailing model industry aesthetic, exacerbated her condition. She eventually sought help after realizing the severity of her illness, with a chance encounter with a sober acting coach proving pivotal.

Now five years into recovery, Sumner has rebuilt her life and career, taking on acting roles and podcasting. She actively journals, meditates, and spends time outdoors to manage her mental health. By sharing her journey, she hopes to offer support and encouragement to others experiencing similar silent battles.