Why Selena Gomez Says Being Open About Mental Health Is ‘Frightening’ — and Takes Real Courage
By Website Content Manager
Gomez publicly shared her bipolar disorder diagnosis in 2020.
Selena Gomez has never found it easy to speak publicly about her mental health, but she continues to do so with a greater purpose in mind.
In a new interview with Billboard Español published on April 24, Gomez explained why mental health advocacy remains deeply important to her.
“Whether you’re in the spotlight or not, I think it’s essential to speak up about the things that matter to you,” said Gomez, 32, who will be recognized as Woman of the Year at the 2025 Billboard Latin Women in Music event on May 1.
However, she acknowledged the emotional toll it can take. “It’s definitely not easy — being open makes you a target, and people will always have something to say, often harshly, just because you dared to speak your truth,” she added.
The singer of “Lose You to Love Me” reflected on the initial moment she chose to share her personal journey, describing the fear she felt.
“It was daunting to be that open, and I never wanted anyone to view me as a victim,” she shared.
Gomez went on, saying, “I believed that by sharing my experience, I could support others, and I’m willing to face any backlash that comes with it because I understand the bigger impact of how conversations about mental health have evolved.”
Gomez has consistently been transparent about her mental health and even hosted the third annual Rare Beauty Mental Health Summit in May.
Additionally, in October 2023, she organized the first-ever Rare Impact Fund Benefit at Nya Studios in Hollywood, aiming to raise funds for youth mental health initiatives.
During her speech at the event, Gomez explained that her advocacy work was inspired by some of the darkest times in her life.
“I battled with my inner world for a long time, feeling lost and hopeless at moments,” Gomez shared. “In 2020, I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Honestly, everything shifted for me after that.”
“I finally received the clarity and answers I had been searching for. Understanding my diagnosis has made me more aware, and I’m no longer as fearful as I once was.”