Izzy Ramsay, Miss World State finalist makes depression charity Black Dog Institute chosen charity after suffering illness

BECOMING the youngest contestant to make it through to the state finals of Miss World is not Izzy Ramsay’s only achievement. The 19-year-old has suffered from anxiety and depression, and called for more education for young people.

BECOMING  the youngest contestant to make it through to the state finals of a renowned beauty contest is not Izzy Ramsay’s only achievement.

The 19-year-old has revealed she suffered panic attacks, anxiety and depression at school, making it an even more impressive feat that she is competing in Miss World.

And now Ms Ramsay, from Curl Curl, is training to run a half-marathon in aid of charity The Black Dog Institute, which helps people suffering from depression and related illnesses.

It is part of the preparations for the former student of Brigidine College in St Ives for the upcoming state final of the contest in June.

Ms Ramsay, from Curl Curl, is training to run a half-marathon in aid of charity The Black Dog Institute, after suffering from depression and anxiety. Picture: Braden Fastier

She is getting in shape for the 21km event as part of the Blackmores Sydney Running Festival and aims to raise awareness, especially among young people.

“I suffered quite badly from anxiety in my last year, of school so I thought it would be a good thing to do,” she said.

Miss World Australia winner 2015, Tess Alexander, who was from Queensland.

“When I was in Year 12 I had a panic attack on a bus. I thought I was going to die.”

Ms Ramsay had medical help and said she sometimes still got anxious and that more should be taught in schools about the illnesses.

“When I was in Year 12 I had a panic attack on a bus. I thought I was going to die.” said Ms Ramsay, Miss World State finalist. Picture: Braden Fastier

“We learn about things like cyber bullying, but I don’t think they’ve taught us much about anxiety,” she said.

Ms Ramsay moved to the northern beaches with her family, mother Pip and father Bruce, and brother Archie, 22, from Harrogate in the UK in 2006.

Her mother said she was impressed how her daughter was coping after seeking help during her exams.

Miss World 2016:From left to right: Danielle Cognetta, Nem Logan, Nina Cuturic, Adriana Krpez, Izzi Ramsay, Grace Gowdie and Emily-Beth Naylor

“She’s pushed herself forward to do these things. To recognise it and deal with it is great,” she said.

Ms Ramsay, who is studying media at Macquarie University, works as a children’s swimming instructor at Warringah Aquatic Centre and Virgin Active in Frenchs Forest

The winner of June’s Miss World state final will compete at the national final for the chance to become Miss World Australia.

Ms Ramsay, who is studying media at Macquarie University, works as a children’s swimming instructor at Warringah Aquatic Centre and Virgin Active in Frenchs Forest. Picture: Braden Fastier

Symptoms of anxiety include excessive and uncontrollable fear or worry, a racing heart, restlessness and difficulty sleeping.

Details: For help, see your GP, visit blackdoginstitute.org.au or contact BeyondBlue 1300 22 4636.