Tess Holliday Opens Up About Struggles with Mental Health Due to 'Fatphobic' Messages

Tess Holliday is asking the public to stop criticizing her weight.

The plus-size model, 38, posted a TikTok video on Monday, April 15 to address the negative messages that she constantly receives.

"I've been learning something interesting on this app that's very critical of people's weight. As soon as you make a mistake, everyone jumps in to remind you of how overweight you are and suggest that you should die. It's quite the experience. I must say, I've been really enjoying it," Holliday sarcastically remarked.

"Please, let's not continue with the negativity because my mental health is a bit fragile right now," she added. "Sometimes, we're simply trying our best. We all make mistakes and we're not expected to be perfect."

Holliday, who grew up in Mississippi, experienced bullying because of her weight. Sadly, the bullying has persisted even on social media in recent years.

She expressed her thoughts on the matter, suggesting that instead of harshly criticizing someone for making a mistake, it would be more helpful to offer support. She emphasized that many people are already struggling and trying their best, and hurtful comments only make things worse.

Tess Holliday Says Mental Health Is Fragile After Fatphobic Messages 2

Tess Holliday Jared Siskin/Getty Images for National Alliance for Eating Disorders

Holliday captioned her video, “I really am doing my best and I love y’all sm.”

This is not the first time she has called out critics for body shaming her.

In June 2022, Holliday addressed a comment from someone who felt "grossed out" by following her on TikTok, leading them to lose over 150 lbs.

Holliday pointed out that seeking out content of larger-bodied individuals to feel better about oneself is a strange behavior. She emphasized that many larger-bodied individuals lead happy and fulfilling lives, not in spite of their weight, but simply because they are content with who they are.

"I'm often used as a 'before' picture and inspiration for weight loss, but the truth is, I've gained weight over the years. My weight has gone up and down, but one thing that has remained constant is my happiness," she shared. "I may be heavier now than I have been in a while, but I'm also more content."

The previous makeup artist and hair stylist has always been candid about her challenges with body image.

In April 2022, she opened up about her struggles with body image after being diagnosed with anorexia.

In a post on Instagram, Holliday shared, "It's been really tough because even though I may seem like I'm having a good time, sometimes it's a struggle just to get out of the house."

In December 2021, she opened up about her struggle with body dysmorphia, a mental health condition where individuals become fixated on perceived imperfections in their appearance.

"My body dysmorphia has been difficult to deal with recently. Seeing old photos on my phone makes me spiral a bit," shared Holliday on Instagram.

She shared pictures that reminded her of a challenging period in her life when she struggled with anorexia and was in a toxic marriage with ex-husband Nick Holliday from 2015 to 2020.

Reflecting on those photos, she admitted, "I have to stop and think: 'Why am I feeling sad?' I may have liked my appearance in those pictures, but at that time, I was dealing with severe eating disorders, a harmful relationship, and profound unhappiness."

If you or someone you know struggles with body dysmorphia or an eating disorder, visit the National Eating Disorders (NEDA) website or call their hotline at (800) 931-2237 to get help.

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Tess Holliday