In a world where mental health is often overshadowed by stigma and misunderstanding, Tori Trittin emerges as a powerful voice for change. At just 22, she stands at the intersection of beauty, influence, and mental health advocacy, determined to dismantle the barriers that prevent open discussions about mental well-being. Armed with dual master’s degrees—one in Social Work and another in Clinical Mental Health Social Work—Tori channels her personal experiences into a mission that resonates deeply with many.
Her commitment to mental health is not just professional; it is profoundly personal. The tragic loss of her father to untreated alcoholism left an indelible mark on her life, igniting a passionate drive to educate others about the complexities of mental health, particularly in relation to substance abuse. Tori’s journey is a testament to resilience, compassion, and the urgent need to bring often-ignored issues into the spotlight.
A Personal Mission Rooted in Loss
Tori’s journey into mental health advocacy is deeply personal. She experienced the heart-wrenching loss of her father due to untreated alcoholism. This painful chapter in her life ignited a fervent passion for addressing substance abuse as a critical mental health issue. Tori passionately states, “Even my generation still stigmatizes alcoholism and substance abuse vs. recognizing them as different expressions of mental health challenges.”
While younger generations are increasingly open about discussing anxiety, depression, and ADHD, Tori points out that conditions such as panic disorders and severe phobias remain largely unrecognized. “Today, generalized anxiety is accepted, but intense fear and panic disorders hurt people in ways we don’t see—beneath the surface. And often these less accepted conditions ostracize and isolate those suffering. We have to fix that,” she asserts. This commitment to understanding and addressing all facets of mental health is at the forefront of her aspirations for her future practice as a mental health therapist.
Challenging the Beauty Industry’s Stigma
Initially disillusioned by the beauty industry’s oversight of critical mental health issues, Tori found renewed inspiration in former Miss USA, Noelia Voigt, who courageously shared her own mental health journey. This moment reaffirmed Tori’s resolve to advocate for the issues closest to her heart. She notes, “Too often, men and women in the beauty, modeling, or entertainment industries are put on pedestals that make it difficult for others to see or understand the struggles they may be facing. The idea is, ‘Well, you are beautiful, successful, popular, or in demand, so you can’t possibly feel bad or have issues you’re grappling with.’ In reality, nothing could be further from the truth.”
Tori’s determination to change this narrative is evident in her daily life. As the reigning Miss Wisconsin USA, she uses her platform to amplify conversations around mental health, shedding light on the often-hidden struggles many face.
Integrating Animal-Assisted Therapy
In addition to her work as a mental health therapist, Tori is training her dog to become an animal-assisted therapy companion. This innovative approach integrates the healing power of animals into her practice, reflecting her belief in their therapeutic value. Her interest in therapy dogs sparked after her uncle sustained brain damage and PTSD from a car accident, leading her to witness firsthand the positive impact these animals can have on mental health.
A Multifaceted Passionate Advocate
Outside her advocacy work, Tori is an enthusiastic foodie and restaurant reviewer. A self-proclaimed sushi lover, she enjoys exploring new dining spots and sharing her culinary experiences with her online followers. Her creativity shines through in other pursuits as well; she has previously authored and published a 10-episode romance novel on the app Episode, showcasing her storytelling talents and unique interests, such as memorizing 30 digits of Pi.
Despite her busy schedule, Tori prioritizes family connections, particularly with her brother, Justin. As the youngest of five children and the only girl, she fondly reminisces about the boys-versus-girls dynamic of her childhood. This upbringing has significantly shaped her resilience and sense of humor, both of which fuel her advocacy work.
Changing the Conversation Around Mental Health
Through her tireless advocacy, professional endeavors, and personal experiences, Tori Trittin is reshaping the conversation surrounding mental health. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the depth of mental health challenges, stating, “It’s time we dig a bit deeper and work harder as a society to understand everything our mental health encompasses, not just the ‘comfortable’ topics. I plan to do just that. It’s time.”
Tori’s dedication to breaking down barriers and challenging stigmas serves as an inspiring reminder that everyone’s mental health journey is valid and worthy of acknowledgment. With her unwavering commitment to fostering understanding and compassion, Tori Trittin is undoubtedly paving the way for a more inclusive dialogue about mental health.
Credits:
Model: Tori Trittin
Photographer: Brittany Link
HMU: Emorie Jones
Retouches: Julia Nova
Creative Director: Thom Brodeur
Producer: Brodeur Beauties
