Understanding Selena Gomez's Mental Health Struggles

In recent years, Selena Gomez has been remarkably open about her struggles with anxiety and depression. Sources like Crazy Days and Nights have speculated about her mental health, but few have taken the time to truly understand what she goes through.

Selena's Revelation of Anxiety and Depression

In 2014, Gomez first revealed she had been diagnosed with lupus, an autoimmune disease that can severely impact mental health. Two years later, Gomez took a break to deal with anxiety, panic attacks, and depression stemming from her lupus diagnosis.

Selena shed light on the profound impact the conditions had on her: There were a few months where I was a little depressed...I realized that I shouldnt feel bad about myself. She also discussed the dangers of social media, feeling overwhelmed by seeing the seemingly perfect lives of others online.

Ongoing Treatments and Relapses

Gomez checked into therapy and rehabilitation several more times over the next few years. Despite treatments, her issues persisted. In early 2018, Selena suffered a relapse of her depression and anxiety. She shared, Ive had a lot of issues with depression and anxiety and Ive been very vocal about it, but it's not something I feel I'll ever overcome."

Nonetheless, she continues to undergo DBT (dialectical behavior therapy) and other treatments, using a holistic approach to manage her conditions. She explains: I want to make sure I'm healthy. If that's me taking two years to just relax, I'm willing to do that.

The Struggle for Mental Health in the Spotlight

For Selena, growing up as a Disney channel star put immense pressure on her from a young age. Then her lupus diagnosis and other health issues contributed mental health struggles already exacerbated by fame and constant public scrutiny.

Selena herself said, Once I did, the doors opened for me, talking about my experiences. Her honesty has helped break down stigma around mental illness for other celebrities and fans struggling too.

Learning Healthy Coping Mechanisms

Along her journey, Selena has learned the value of self-care rather than self-harm: Ive learned more about self-harm and self-care because you get so lost when youre in your head. She copes through activities like therapy, yoga, meditation, painting, and quality time with friends.

She emphasizes the role her faith plays too: I know theres a God...Im just trying my best to make sure I get into a space where I can live a normal life. Finding spiritual grounding provides Selena with comfort and hope.

The Takeaways: Compassion, Understanding and Support

Rather than speculation, we ought to respond to Selenas mental health struggles with compassion. Her honesty has made significant impact, helping break down stigma and showing others they need not suffer alone in silence.

Selena sums it up best herself: Ive gone through things that are harder than...I would have ever endured. It's about your soul, it's about self-love. I'm still here to use whatever I have to help someone else. By continuing the conversations Selena Gomez has courageously begun, we can provide the understanding and support needed to help her and the millions facing similar battles around the world.

FAQs

What mental health conditions has Selena Gomez struggled with?

Selena Gomez has been very open about her struggles with anxiety, panic attacks, and depression. These have been exacerbated by her diagnosis of the autoimmune disease lupus.

When did Selena first reveal her mental health issues publicly?

In 2016, Selena took a break from her career to deal with anxiety, panic attacks, and depression stemming from her lupus diagnosis a few years prior.

What treatments has Selena undergone for her mental health?

Selena has undergone dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), rehabilitation programs, and various other treatments over the past several years. She takes a holistic approach to managing her conditions.

How has Selena's public honesty about mental health impacted others?

By openly sharing details of her own struggles, Selena has helped break down stigma around mental illness amongst celebrities and fans facing similar issues. Her candor paved the way for important conversations on the topic.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.