Beneath the Glamour: Navigating Mental Health in the Fashion Industry

Fashion isn’t just about the clothes we wear; it’s a reflection of our times, our society, and sometimes, our deepest struggles. Today, on World Mental Health Day, I want to pull back the curtain on an industry that dazzles on the surface but often conceals a darker undercurrent.

While researching for this article, I was surprised to find that popular fashion media barely addresses mental health within the industry. It’s as if mental health is last season’s trend—conveniently forgotten and tucked away.

I’ve spent over 15 years immersed in this world, starting as an intern in photo studios and progressing to working for a top New York modeling agency. The environment was toxic, a pressure cooker of unrealistic demands, humiliation, and inflated egos of the self-proclaimed elite of the modeling industry. Speaking up felt risky; after all, my visa and entire future in the U.S. hinged on this job. But, it had to stop. Quitting wasn’t just a career move—it was a leap into the unknown and a breath of fresh air.

In my own journey to find balance, I’ve tried many things—silent meditation retreats, trauma healing sessions, therapy, to name a few—sometimes just to keep my head above water. But this isn’t just my story—it’s a narrative echoing across photo shoots, pre-production meetings, casting calls, and runway rehearsals worldwide.

THE HIDDEN TOLL OF THE SPOTLIGHT

Fashion, for all its allure, is a high-octane ecosystem where long hours and low pay are often romanticized as rites of passage. Junior creatives hustle in overdrive, surviving on caffeine and ambition, all for a coveted spot under the industry’s bright lights. Outwardly, it seems glamorous—posh events, influential networks, the allure of creation. But peel back the glitter, and you’ll find exhaustion masquerading as dedication. Behind the scenes, many grapple with stress, burnout, and a lingering fear: if they speak up about their mental health, will they be shown the exit?

This unspoken code of silence cuts across roles—fashion models contending with impossible beauty standards, designers under pressure to churn out visionary collections in weeks, and stylists juggling the demands of stressful gigs: heavy samples pickups and drop-offs, and the anxiety of not obtaining needed items for a shoot happening tomorrow.. Photographers, makeup artists, hairstylists, assistants work around the clock to perfect images that embody flawlessness, often neglecting their own well-being. After all, who needs sleep and balance when you can function on adrenaline and sheer panic?

FAST FASHION, FASTER BURNOUT

Remember when fashion had two main seasons—Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter? Now, micro-seasons blur together in a ceaseless cycle fueled by fast fashion’s insatiable appetite. The time between collections has shrunk from months to mere weeks. Designers and creative directors race against shrinking timelines, their creativity strained by the demand for instant gratification. It’s a sprint that never ends, with the finish line constantly moving.

This perpetual motion doesn’t just strain creativity—it strains people. The weight of constant innovation, paired with public scrutiny, can lead to a toxic cocktail of self-doubt and exhaustion. The pressure isn’t just to create but to outperform previous successes, to stay relevant in an industry that forgets as quickly as it celebrates. Tom Ford once candidly remarked, “Fashion is evil. You stay out for very long and people forget who you are. And your name loses power.” It’s a stark reminder of the unforgiving nature of the business.

There’s a fine line between passion and obsession. The very traits that make someone a brilliant director or an innovative designer—an eye for detail, a relentless pursuit of perfection—can also be their Achilles’ heel. Creative minds are wired to see the world differently, to dwell on nuances others might overlook. This heightened sensitivity fuels originality but also predisposes them to mental health struggles.

According to The International Conference on Addiction and Associated Disorders, individuals in creative careers like fashion are 25% more likely to experience mental health disorders compared to those in other industries. The constant rumination that drives artistic breakthroughs can, in other aspects of life, lead to feelings of hopelessness and depression. It’s a paradox: the same thought processes that birth beauty can also breed despair. Icons like Alexander McQueen and Kate Spade remind us that success isn’t a shield against inner turmoil.

WHEN ZERO IS CONSIDERED A SIZE, YOU KNOW THERE’S A PROBLEM

Fashion models are often the faces of the industry, embodying its ideals and aspirations. The scrutiny over every physical detail can lead to severe body image issues, eating disorders, and a fractured sense of self-worth. The transient nature of modeling careers adds another layer of anxiety—today’s star can easily become yesterday’s news.

Behind the camera, photographers, directors, stylists, and other creatives grapple with their own set of challenges. The gig economy has made job security a rarity. Freelancers hustle from one project to the next, with little time to rest or reflect. The lack of stability contributes to stress and uncertainty about the future.

BREAKING THE SILENCE

Stigma keeps many suffering in silence. Admitting vulnerability feels taboo in an arena where image is everything. It’s almost ironic that in a field obsessed with exposure, so many feel compelled to hide. There’s a pervasive belief that showing any sign of weakness could jeopardize one’s career. This mindset is particularly damaging because it isolates individuals when they most need support.

Yet, the most powerful thing we can do is talk about it. Openness paves the way for a more compassionate and understanding environment.

STEPPING TOWARDS WELLNESS

So, how do we start to heal in an industry where the pace never slows?

1. Set Boundaries: Your time is your own. Prioritize rest and create a work-life balance—even if the industry suggests otherwise. It’s okay to say no to unreasonable demands.
2. Mindful Moments: Incorporate small practices like deep breathing, meditation, or short walks to recalibrate during hectic days. Even five minutes can make a difference.
3. Seek Support: Whether it’s a trusted friend, a mentor, or a mental health professional, don’t hesitate to reach out. Connection can be a powerful antidote to isolation.
4. Challenge the Narrative: Success doesn’t have to come at the expense of your well-being. Advocate for healthier work environments and push back against unrealistic demands.
5. Educate Yourself and Others: Understanding the signs of mental health struggles can empower you to seek help sooner and support others in doing the same.
6. Invest in Self-Care: Find what rejuvenates you outside of work, be it art, exercise, or simply unplugging. Hobbies and interests beyond fashion can provide much-needed relief.
7. Promote Open Dialogue: Encourage conversations about mental health within your circles. Sharing experiences can reduce stigma and foster a sense of community.

INDUSTRY-WIDE RESPONSIBILITY

Companies and industry leaders have a crucial role to play. Implementing policies that prioritize mental well-being is not just compassionate—it’s essential for sustainable success. This could include:

• Reasonable Work Hours: Limiting the expectation of excessive overtime can reduce burnout.
• Access to Resources: Providing mental health services and support networks within organizations.
• Safe Work Environments: Cultivating a culture where employees feel secure to express concerns without fear of retribution.
• Education and Training: Offering workshops on stress management, resilience, and mental health awareness.

By taking these steps, the industry can shift from a culture of relentless pressure to one of support and understanding.

Let’s remember that behind every brand, every image, every creation, there’s a human being. It’s time the industry values mental health as much as it does the next big trend. After all, our greatest asset isn’t just our creativity—it’s our well-being.

The fashion world thrives on innovation and pushing boundaries. Imagine what could be achieved if that same energy was directed toward fostering a healthier environment for all its contributors. We might see not only a surge in creativity but also a more sustainable and humane industry. Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t a detour from success—it’s the path to it.

RESOURCES FOR THOSE IN NEED

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, consider reaching out to organizations that specialize in supporting individuals in creative industries. You’re not alone, and help is available.

• The Model Alliance: An organization that advocates for fair treatment, equal opportunity, and sustainable practices in the fashion industry. They offer support and resources related to mental health, legal rights, and workplace safety for models and creatives.
• Creatives Care: A dedicated organization offering mental health support and resources specifically for professionals in the creative industries, including fashion, art, and design.
• ArtsMinds: A collaborative initiative by UK arts organizations to provide resources and support for mental health in the creative community. They offer information on managing mental health challenges specific to creative professions.
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Provides comprehensive resources for mental health support across various professions.