Selena Gomez, the renowned singer and actress, is no stranger to sharing her experiences with mental health challenges and her battle against the autoimmune disease lupus.
In a forthcoming documentary titled "My Mind & Me," set to premiere on Apple TV+, Selena promises an even more candid look at her life, revealing the raw emotions and struggles she's faced over the past six years.
In this heart-wrenching documentary preview, which debuted earlier this week, the "Bad Liar" singer opens up about her mental health issues and how she embarked on a journey of self-acceptance and self-love. She's heard speaking to herself, saying, "I know who you are, Selena. No one cares what you do. It's about who I am, being okay with who I am. I'm grateful to be alive." The teaser showcases various aspects of her life, from rehearsing, singing, and doing her hair and makeup to her moments of vulnerability - waking up in hotel rooms, navigating life under the constant scrutiny of cameras, and seeking solace with friends.
However, the documentary doesn't shy away from showing Selena's hospital treatments, emotional breakdowns, and her attempts to evade the relentless paparazzi. In one particularly poignant moment, she resolves, "I'm going to stop living like this. How am I going to learn to breathe on my own again?"
Selena Gomez's health struggles began when she was diagnosed with lupus, an autoimmune disease that occurs when the immune system attacks one's own tissues and organs, in 2014. In 2017, her condition deteriorated to the point where she needed a kidney transplant. This traumatic experience contributed to the development of anxiety, severe panic attacks, depression, and, eventually, a diagnosis of bipolar disorder in 2020.
Throughout her illustrious decade-long career, Selena sought professional treatment at various points, battling her inner demons and striving to find equilibrium in the tumultuous world of entertainment.
The documentary, which premieres on November 4, delves deep into Selena's journey from humble beginnings to unimaginable stardom, emphasizing the dark paths she encountered along the way. "If anyone saw what I saw, they wouldn't have recognized her," her friend Raquelle Stevens poignantly observes in the trailer.
In one part of the preview, Selena confesses her fears that she isn't good enough, echoing feelings she grappled with from a young age. She says, "That's something I felt growing up."
Despite her incredible success, which began with appearances in "Barney" at age 10 and eventually led to her starring role in the Disney Channel series "Wizards of Waverly Place" at 15, Selena remained committed to using her platform for good. "What makes me happy is the connection," she says. "I'm still here to use what I have to help other people."
In addition to her acting career, Selena made a significant impact on the music industry, releasing six albums over the years. However, in 2016, she made the difficult decision to cancel a portion of her "Revival" tour to prioritize her health. In a statement, she disclosed, "I have discovered that anxiety, panic attacks and depression can be side effects of lupus, which can present their own challenges. I want to be proactive and focus on maintaining my health and happiness."
Reflecting on her journey, Selena explained that seeking help allowed her to confront her issues head-on with the guidance of top doctors and specialists, describing it as one of the hardest yet most rewarding decisions she's ever made. It's a testament to her strength and resilience, which she continues to share with the world in the hopes of inspiring others to do the same.
