Supermodel Jordan Barrett Reveals Struggles with Body Dysmorphia
Australian supermodel Jordan Barrett, 29, has spoken with striking candor about his ongoing challenges with mental health, including a diagnosis of body dysmorphia. In a recent conversation, the prominent figure in the fashion industry disclosed that concerns surrounding body image are pervasive within the modeling world, and he is not immune.
Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is characterized by an obsessive preoccupation with perceived flaws in one’s appearance. Barrett shared, “I’m around some of the most beautiful people in the world and they all think that they’re horrific looking.” He elaborated on his personal experience, stating, “I’ve gone through that, I think I’ve got body dysmorphia to a sense where I always think I’m too skinny.” This perception, he explained, stemmed from his height. “I would be given, I think, a size 28 pair of pants and I’m a six-foot-three boy (size 32 pant),” he revealed. “I’ve never been able to fit a sample size my entire career. I wasn’t sample size when I was given number one model status that would fit these clothes that were sample size so I was always having to hide my height … but whatever it took for the booking.” Barrett’s comments shed light on the often-unseen pressures faced by those in the industry.
Extended Break for Mental Health
Barrett also admitted to taking a hiatus from modeling for over two years, during which he managed anxiety and an Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) diagnosis. He described the significant difficulties he experienced with concentration due to his ADHD, noting that he often has to read a book multiple times while simultaneously listening to an audiobook to fully absorb the content.
Public Concern Over Appearance
These personal revelations follow a period where Barrett’s noticeably gaunt appearance sparked concern among fans and observers. He was particularly noted for his strikingly thin frame at London Fashion Week in 2023, which led to widespread discussion about his well-being.
Earlier that month, Barrett had explained his weight loss in an Instagram post, disclosing that he was training for another marathon. He announced his participation in the Vienna Marathon, with the goal of raising funds for the organization LDA Les Disparus Anonymes, which focuses on recovering missing children. “Countdown, Vienna marathon, 60 Days. This time I’ll be running to raise funds for LDA Les Disparus Anonymes,” he captioned images of his training regimen.
Early Career and Industry Beginnings
Barrett’s journey into the modeling world began at a young age. He was discovered at 13 years old in a grocery store on the Gold Coast by Kirk Blake of What Model Management. Reflecting on his discovery in a 2013 interview, Barrett recalled, “I was scouted in my local grocery store on the Gold Coast by a man named Kirk Blake, who has been in the industry for years.” In an earlier account to New York magazine, he recounted the circumstances leading up to his discovery, mentioning he was attempting to steal matches for cigarettes, as he was underage and unable to purchase a lighter.
Throughout his career, Barrett has been publicly associated with various high-profile personalities, including Paris Hilton, Hailey Baldwin, Sofia Richie, Megan Blake Irwin, Lara Stone, and Sahara Ray.
For those seeking support, resources are available: Lifeline at 131144, the Butterfly Foundation at 1800334673, and Kids Helpline at 1800551800.
