Redefining Success: Mental Health as the New Wealth in Celebrity Culture
In a candid revelation about her mental health journey, Selena Gomez recently discussed the impact of her struggles on her relationship with her home, particularly her bedroom. During Wondermind’s virtual Mental Fitness Summit, held on World Mental Health Day, October 10, the 32-year-old actress and singer shared her experiences and how they have shaped her perspective on mental well-being.
Gomez admitted, “I spent too much time in my bedroom that I actually don’t even sleep in it anymore. I associate it with a really dark time.” This poignant statement underscores the toll that anxiety and depression have taken on her life, as she described how they once kept her confined to her bed for extended periods.
“Being anxious is so debilitating sometimes,” she explained, reflecting on the years she spent battling these feelings. “I didn’t want to leave my bed, and part of it was because I wasn’t doing the work. You have to believe in yourself and do the work to help you move forward.”
In a moment of vulnerability, Gomez shared a sleepless night she experienced just before the summit. “Last night, I couldn’t fall asleep until around 4 a.m. because my mind was racing,” she recalled. “I kept telling myself, ‘This will pass. Just let it go through your body,’ and eventually, I fell asleep.”
Throughout her journey, Gomez has been open about her battles with anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. She emphasized the importance of support, mentioning how talking to her close friends, therapist, and mother, Mandy Teefey, has significantly helped her cope. In fact, Gomez and her mother co-founded Wondermind, a mental health platform aimed at fostering discussions around mental well-being.
“I still have days where I need my mom,” she admitted, revealing her reliance on her mother during tough times. “Sometimes I just let myself cry and talk it out.”
Gomez also highlighted the liberation she found in sharing her mental health experiences with others. “I tend to isolate, but I found complete freedom in sharing what I’ve been through,” she said, encouraging others to open up about their struggles. “I hope no one looks at me and thinks my life is perfect because it’s not. I’m grateful for what I have, but we’re all human, and our feelings are real. We need to talk about mental health and educate people more.”
Through her candid discussions and advocacy, Selena Gomez continues to shed light on the importance of mental health awareness, inspiring others to confront their struggles and seek help when needed.
