The 32-year-old Selena Gomez, who disclosed in 2020 that she was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, is sharing her journey toward being “properly medicated” for both her mental and physical well-being.
In a candid interview for Vanity Fair’s October issue, published on September 9, the singer and actress elaborated on the tools and practices that have helped her stay anchored during difficult times.
Gomez — who has battled lupus in addition to bipolar disorder — revealed that one of her “healing mechanisms” includes using extreme temperatures, such as cold water and space heaters, to “calm” herself. She also emphasized the importance of mental health exercises in her journey.
“I remind myself that I’m okay,” she said. “I ground myself for a moment. ‘Where am I? I’m in the office. Everyone I care about is outside. There’s food available. I can have a snack. I can rest here before I leave.’ I bring myself into the present moment.”
“I’m ready for whatever comes — it’s just that now I’m on the right medication,” she added with a chuckle.
Gomez has been open about her struggles with lupus, a condition she was diagnosed with in 2015. She first disclosed her bipolar diagnosis in April 2020 during Miley Cyrus’ Instagram Live show, "Bright Minded", and has since been transparent about her experiences, including the highs and lows associated with the disorder.
In her Vanity Fair profile, the "Only Murders in the Building" star emphasized that she does not want to be seen as a “victim” of her mental health challenges, which have included panic attacks, anxiety, and severe depression.
“I like to remind people that I am nowhere near that place now,” she said. “My mind was unstable and chemically imbalanced, and it was incredibly tough.”
“People called me a victim. That irritates me because being vulnerable is actually one of the most courageous things you can do,” she continued. “I won’t let that narrative define my life. I am grateful every day. I have my moments like everyone else, but I’m no victim. I’ve just endured a lot. There isn’t a part of me that wants anyone’s pity.”
In sharing her personal journey, Gomez launched the Rare Impact Fund, an initiative aimed at raising awareness and funds for mental health support for young people.
Her 2022 documentary, "Selena Gomez: My Mind & Me", also provided an intimate look at her mental health battles and victories.
The Quran - Chapter Al-Ma'arij: 42- 44
So let them indulge ˹in falsehood˺ and amuse ˹themselves˺ until they face their Day, which they have been threatened with—
the Day they will come forth from the graves swiftly, as if racing to an idol ˹for a blessing˺,
with eyes downcast, utterly covered with disgrace. That is the Day they have ˹always˺ been warned of.
