On October 10, renowned actor and singer Selena Gomez participated in the Mental Fitness Summit held by Wondermind. Accompanied by her mother, Mandy Teefey, and licensed social worker Minaa B, the former Disney star candidly addressed her experiences with mental health struggles during a panel discussion, sharing that she often retreated into isolation for years.
According to Elle magazine, the panel posed a question to Gomez about effective self-care practices for those battling depression and the overwhelming fear that makes getting out of bed challenging. To this, the actress from Wizards of Waverly Place responded:
“I spent too much time in my bedroom that I actually don’t even sleep in my bedroom anymore because I associate it with such a really dark time. Being anxious is so debilitating sometimes, and yeah, I didn’t want to leave my bed for years, and part of it was I wasn’t doing the work.”
This isn’t the first occasion Gomez has revealed her negative associations with her bedroom. Last year, she participated in the Music & Health Conference hosted by Universal Music Group and Thrive Global, where she openly discussed her mental health journey, the pressures associated with a vast social media presence, and her concerns regarding the increasing use of artificial intelligence.
During her conversation with Lucian Grainge, CEO of Universal Music Group, and Arianna Huffington, CEO of Thrive Global, Gomez shared:
“I try to stay out of my bedroom. Bedrooms are real triggers for me. When I was going through psychosis and that whole period of my life, it was my bed that I was stuck to. So I try to leave my room and surround myself, even just with one person — and they can be washing the dishes or doing nothing and just being in their presence would really help.”
Selena Gomez emphasizes the significance of positive self-talk and a strong support network
Selena Gomez recently expressed that she feels uncomfortable being alone when facing mental health challenges. At Wondermind’s Mental Fitness Summit, during a discussion with fashion influencer Remi Bader, she mentioned that during her low moments, she relies heavily on her small support system of two to three close individuals. Gomez articulated this point by stating:
“I don’t have a lot of people in my life, but I know who my inner circle is; I have to talk things out. And I have a therapist too, but it’s also nice to have people around you who will just listen to you. There is a freedom in letting go of whatever it is that’s keeping you stuck and that lump in your throat.”
The star of Only Murders in the Building also highlighted the value of giving herself motivational talks to alleviate her anxiety, stating:
“I am a very anxious person. It’s kind of like doomsday, and I think having a positive conversation with yourself, even if that sounds weird, is really impactful. Like before I step out of the car, and there’s going to be lots of noise and stuff—if that’s the case… I have to breathe, and I have to say, ‘All of this is a gift.’”
Gomez concluded the discussion by encouraging anyone struggling with mental health issues to recognize that they are not alone. She urged individuals to seek assistance and explore methods such as maintaining a video journal to articulate their feelings.
In 2022, Selena Gomez’s documentary titled My Mind & Me premiered on Apple TV+.
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