Teresa Scanlan discusses her life after winning famed beauty contest.
A former miss america revealing her battle with depression in the rear that she wore the grown. Reporter: At 17 years old, teresa was the youngest miss america in more than 70 years. Two years later, the pianist and singer is speaking out about the pressure that drove her to contemplate suicide.
People tearing me down and ripping me so shreds every day. Some said I'm too pretty, others, too ugly. Reporter: A year of public criticism and nonstop engage ms pushed her into a deep depression.
I was hiking the national monument. Growing up, it was my favorite place. This time, it was different.
I was falling apart. And, um, very strongly contemplating jumping off the top. Th Reporter: That's when this smalltown girl said she hit rock bottom.
I'm a perfectionist. I was putting pressure on myself. Reporter: At 19, she's taking medication and starting her sophomore year at patrick henry college.
A small, conservative christian school outside of washington, d. C. Even there, she's received criticism for competing in a swim suit.
There was facebook comments at the people didn't believe it was congruent with christianity. Reporter: Her willingness to speak out will make a difference. She's doing a terrific job role modelling the fact that it's socially and emotionally okay to suffer from depression.
Is there it's not something to be embarrassed about. You can get through it. And to never give up.
Reporter: For "good morning america," linzie janis, abc news, new york. I had the pleasure of meeting that young lady. She was so inspirational. SEE LESS
This transcript has been automatically generated and may not be 100% accurate.
No comments:
Post a Comment