In a striking revelation, Courtney Stodden, the non-binary model and public figure, opened up about the profound impact of cyberbullying on their mental health, particularly the cruel remarks directed at them by Chrissy Teigen during a tumultuous period in their life. Stodden, who gained notoriety at the tender age of 16 for marrying 51-year-old Doug Hutchison, faced relentless online harassment that left lasting scars.
Reflecting on this dark chapter in their life, Stodden recounted, “I did actually almost succeed at committing suicide because of — this was a huge part of it.” In their interview for “Impact x Nightline: Confessions of a Child Bride,” they detailed the emotional turmoil brought on by Teigen’s infamous tweets, which included a shocking comment in which Teigen expressed a wish for Stodden to take a “dirt nap.” Such words from someone regarded as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry weighed heavily on Stodden, leading them to ponder their worth and existence. “Maybe I don’t deserve to be here when people that high up are telling me I don’t deserve to be here,” they shared, illustrating the devastating effect of public ridicule.
The timeline of events is critical to understanding the broader narrative of celebrity influence and mental health. Stodden’s experiences of bullying occurred between 2011 and 2012, but it wasn’t until 2021 that Teigen’s tweets resurfaced in the public discourse, igniting a firestorm of criticism against her. The backlash resulted in significant personal and professional consequences for Teigen, who subsequently expressed remorse, labeling herself an “insecure, attention-seeking troll” and acknowledging her transformation as a person post-scandal.
Teigen’s public apology, however, did not resonate with Stodden as they had hoped. In an interview, Stodden remarked, “I wish that she maybe could have apologized to me, like she said she did,” highlighting their feeling that Teigen’s contrition was more about salvaging her image rather than genuinely addressing the harm she caused. This sentiment underscores a critical issue in discussions about accountability in the age of social media, where public figures often face scrutiny for their past actions only after they resurface decades later.
The ramifications of cyberbullying extend far beyond the immediate hurt; they can lead to severe mental health crises. Stodden’s near-suicide attempt is a stark reminder of the potential consequences of online harassment. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, young adults are particularly vulnerable to the effects of bullying, with significant links between cyberbullying and anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation.
In the wake of the scandal, Stodden’s journey has shed light on the necessity of fostering healthier online environments. Their story is not just a personal narrative but also a cautionary tale about the responsibility that comes with influence. As both Stodden and Teigen evolve, they represent different facets of the dialogue surrounding mental health, accountability, and the importance of empathy in public discourse.
As Stodden continues to navigate the aftermath of their experiences, they also remind us of the importance of mental health awareness and support. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, resources like the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 are available to offer help and support. Understanding the weight of words and actions in our interconnected world is paramount, as is the opportunity for healing and growth.
