Selena Gomez has long been in the limelight, not just for her captivating performances and musical prowess but also for her candidness about her personal health struggles. Over the years, the star has opened up about her battles with lupus, a chronic autoimmune condition that has significantly impacted her life and career.
The Struggle Behind the Fame
Selena’s journey with health issues became public when she bravely disclosed her lupus diagnosis during a 2015 interview with Billboard. She revealed that the diagnosis led to her undergoing chemotherapy and taking a break from the public eye, which was misconstrued by many as a stint in rehab for addiction. “I could’ve had a stroke,” Selena admitted, shedding light on the severe implications of her condition.
The challenges didn’t end there. In 2017, Selena underwent a kidney transplant, a critical procedure made necessary by her worsening lupus symptoms. The donor was none other than her friend and fellow actress Francia Raisa, whose selfless act was a testament to their deep bond. Selena shared this personal ordeal with her fans via Instagram, emphasizing the gravity of her condition and her gratitude towards her donor.
Battling Mental Health Issues
In addition to her physical health, Selena has been vocal about her mental health struggles. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 2018, she has faced depression and anxiety, often exacerbated by her lupus. Selena has spoken openly about the ongoing battle with her mental health, saying in a Harper’s Bazaar interview, “I think it’s a battle I’m gonna have to face for the rest of my life, and I’m okay with that because I know that I’m choosing myself over anything else.”
Selena’s commitment to mental health awareness has led her to seek treatment on several occasions, and she has been an advocate for consistent mental health check-ins, whether with a doctor or therapist.
A Role Model for Resilience
Despite the numerous challenges, Selena continues to thrive and inspire. Her battles with health have not diminished her spirit or her career. She has been actively involved in her music and acting projects, all while managing her health and wellbeing meticulously.
In recent years, Selena has also embraced her body changes, often discussing the side effects of her medication like weight fluctuations and inflammation. Her honesty about these changes has been empowering for many, promoting body positivity and self-acceptance among her fans. In a bold move, she addressed body shamers directly in a TikTok story, stating, “Honestly, I don’t care about my weight because people b**** about it anyway… B*tch, I am perfect the way I am.”
Leveraging Fame for Good
Beyond her personal battles, Selena has also made significant strides in business, particularly with her cosmetics brand, Rare Beauty. The brand is celebrated not only for its quality but also for its inclusive and accessible packaging, a nod to those with physical limitations similar to what Selena has experienced due to her medication.
Selena Gomez’s journey is a powerful reminder of the human side of celebrities. She has turned her trials into educational and empowering messages, using her platform to advocate for health awareness, mental health care, and self-acceptance. Her openness and resilience continue to inspire millions around the world, making her not just a pop culture icon but a beacon of hope and strength for those facing their battles.