100 Changemakers for 100 days of BFRB Awareness
article written by Samu G. and ChatGPT
Anna Gantt, a rising star in the modeling industry, is more than just a pretty face. Anna is a 25-year-old American model, who has overcome significant challenges to become a powerful voice for self-acceptance and body positivity.
Anna Gantt's journey began at the young age of four when she was diagnosed with Trichotillomania, a hair-pulling disorder. Despite facing this adversity, she embarked on a modeling career at thirteen and has since built a successful career in the fashion industry.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Anna Gantt's journey is her unwavering openness about her condition. She candidly discusses her lack of eyelashes due to Trichotillomania, often surprising those unfamiliar with the disorder. "I don't have top eyelashes," she shares. "Yes, they do grow back, but I just keep pulling them out." This honesty has often surprised the makeup artists and designers Anna works with, many of whom are unfamiliar with Trichotillomania. "A lot of them don't even know what it is," Anna explains. "But I'm not afraid to educate them and let them know that I'm beautiful just as I am, with or without hair." Anna's self-acceptance is a testament to the hard work she's put into managing her Trichotillomania over the years. She acknowledges that the fashion and beauty industries can be particularly tough environments, but her confidence has been key to embracing her authentic self.
Beyond her modeling career, Gantt is an active social media influencer with a following of over 14,000 on Instagram. She uses her platform to connect with others, share her story, and inspire body positivity. "Progress is not linear, but love for yourself is," Anna reminds the group. She's been working tirelessly to advocate for those living with Trichotillomania, using her platform to raise awareness and offer hope to others struggling with the condition. Gantt's message is clear: it's possible to overcome obstacles, love yourself unconditionally, and live a fulfilling life.
Anna Gantt is a true inspiration. Her courage in sharing her personal struggles and her unwavering belief in self-acceptance make her a role model for people of all ages. She is proof that beauty comes from within and that even in the face of adversity, it is possible to shine brightly.
Support BFRB Changemakers
BFRB Changemakers supports BFRB healing through community. Our mission is 3-fold:
- raise awareness of debilitating conditions of Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs) such as compulsive hair pulling (trichtotillomania), nail biting (onychophagia), and skin picking (dermatillomania),
- increase and improve access to care, and
- advance community recovery.
Through the BFRB Changemakers Training Academy we strive to increase access to care by offering Continuing Education training to new and seasoned mental health treatment professionals.
BFRB Changemakers is a 501c3 non-profit (EIN #93-1544492). Please make a donation to support these efforts!
