Source: Paul Archuleta / Getty
Noelia Voigt resigned her Miss USA title this week to focus more closely on her mental health.
It’s Mental Health Awareness Month and people are using this time to be proactive and get to the root of what may be causing them problems. In Voigt’s case, that meant leaving her 7-month long reign as Miss USA behind due to mental health challenges she faced. She took to instagram following her resignation and shared a post stating, “Never compromise your physical and mental wellbeing.”
SEE ALSO – Bridging The Wellness Gap: Mental Health Apps for Black Users
During a time where the mental health crisis is at an all time high, the Miss USA organization fully supports the 24-year-old’s decision, thanking her for her service in a farewell post on Instagram. Savannah Mankiewicz, runner up to Voigt during last year’s competition, has since been offered to fill the title of Miss USA.
Voigt stepping down comes three days after the resignation of Miss USA’s social media director, Claudia Michelle, who spoke out about alleged “workplace toxicity and bullying.” Michelle mentioned seeing a decline in Voigt’s mental health over the seven months she held the title of Miss USA, claiming the organization silenced Voigt’s voice to speak out and share her story. The organization met with USA Today to share that Michelle’s claims were false, referring to the organization as a positive space where they said they were “committed to fostering a safe, inclusive and supportive environment [that takes] these allegations seriously.”
As Voigt transitions into this new chapter in her life, she hopes she continues to inspire others.
“[Prioritize] your mental health, advocate for yourself and others by using your voice and never be afraid of what the future holds, even if it feels uncertain,” she says.
Despite the controversy over the years between Miss USA and its contestants, they are using this experience regarding Voigt to focus on changing the issue at hand with hopes to ensure the well-being of the contestants are prioritized and heard.
“Indeed, we have and will continue to prioritize the well-being of all individuals involved with Miss USA,” the Miss USA organization said in a statement.
