Selena Gomez, as the most-followed woman on Instagram, regularly finds herself under the spotlight. Transitioning from a Disney star to one of the world’s leading pop icons, actors, and founders of a beauty brand, the 31-year-old now employs her massive platform, boasting over 428 million followers, to champion mental health awareness.
During a discussion with U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy and TODAY’s Hoda Kotb at her makeup line Rare Beauty’s Mental Health Summit, Gomez shed light on how she manages her online presence.
“I’ve disabled all comments on my Instagram photos, limiting them only to my friends. It’s a way for me to establish boundaries,” Selena Gomez explained. “Of course, there were criticisms. People tend to critique everything.”
She further expressed, “Making that decision empowered me, affirming that this space is just for me.”
Selena Gomez has been candid about her physical and mental health struggles. Diagnosed with lupus in 2013, she later underwent a kidney transplant at the age of 24. In 2020, she revealed her diagnosis of bipolar disorder, a revelation initially discouraged by her team.
Reflecting on her journey, Selena Gomez acknowledged her difficulties in understanding her mind and emotions. “That period was perhaps the most challenging in my life,” she shared.
Teaming up with Murthy, Selena Gomez aims to address the issues confronting young people in the U.S., notably the impact of social media and what Murthy refers to as a “loneliness epidemic.”
According to Murthy, “It’s indeed a prevalent issue. Many of us have grappled with loneliness and isolation.”
He added, “I firmly believe that we’re in the midst of a youth mental health crisis, which has become the primary public health concern of our time.”
Gomez’s documentary “My Mind and Me,” released last year, chronicles her journey over six years, documenting her struggles with mental and physical health.
“Seeking help was the first step,” Gomez remarked, emphasizing how her experience has inspired others.
Sharing a poignant moment, Selena Gomez recounted an encounter with a woman who confided in her about going through her third divorce after hearing Gomez’s song “Lose You to Love Me.”
“She emphasized that these moments drive me forward, underscoring the importance of connection, even in fleeting encounters.”
Gomez emphasized the significance of communication and self-empowerment, citing her boyfriend Benny Blanco as a supportive influence.
While Selena Gomez is committed to advocating for mental health, including raising $100 million for mental health services through Rare Beauty, she acknowledges that she is still a work in progress.
“She affirmed her commitment to prioritizing her mental health and continuing to evolve.” “I’m neither superior nor inferior to anyone. I’m simply navigating through each day.”
When asked about her reflections in the mirror each morning, Gomez responded, “I see someone who wakes up every day and gives her best effort. That’s all I could ask for.”
