Cheslie Kryst, the former Miss USA 2019, left a profound legacy through her posthumously published memoir, ‘By The Time You Read This.’ Co-written by her mother, April Simpkins, the memoir chronicles Kryst’s struggles with mental health, particularly imposter syndrome and high-functioning depression.
Despite her outward success as a lawyer, MBA graduate, and beauty queen, Kryst grappled with a deep-seated sense of inadequacy. The memoir reveals her anguish, as she confided in her mother that she “wasn’t good enough” and didn’t feel like she “belonged.”
The pressure of fame and success took a toll on Kryst, especially after her Miss USA victory. She faced relentless online abuse, including messages telling her to kill herself. This hostility exacerbated her fears and fueled her imposter syndrome.
Kryst’s insecurities extended beyond her personal life. She doubted her abilities as Miss USA, believing that she didn’t deserve the title and that everyone else knew more than her. Despite suppressing her anxious thoughts during interviews, she admitted to feeling like a failure.
The memoir also provides an intimate glimpse into the devastating moment Kryst’s mother learned of her daughter’s suicide. Kryst texted her mother, expressing remorse and sadness for the pain she would cause. The memoir serves as a poignant reminder of the hidden struggles faced by those suffering from mental illness and the importance of seeking help when needed.
