Selena Gomez has always been open about her mental health struggles, but the 32-year-old actress and singer admitted that being vulnerable was a scary experience. She recently shared with Billboard that opening up about her anxiety and depression wasn’t easy, and it’s something “not for the faint of heart.”
Selena explained that when she decided to speak out about her own personal journey, it was terrifying. “I didn’t ever want anyone to think I am a victim,” she said. The decision to share her story wasn’t about seeking sympathy, but rather about offering support to others who might be going through the same challenges. “I thought by sharing my own story I could help others,” she added. She knew that there would be negative opinions in response, but she also recognized the bigger picture, the conversations around mental health were changing, and she was contributing to that shift.
This vulnerability isn’t something Selena takes lightly. It took a lot of courage to make herself so open, but she believes that it was worth it. “At the end of the day I believe it matters to be vocal about issues that matter to you,” she said. Despite the fear, Selena felt that sharing her experiences with the world was a way to help others, especially those who felt alone in their mental health struggles.
Her journey hasn’t been about chasing fame or success, either. When asked for advice on how to navigate the pressures of the industry, Selena gave simple yet powerful advice: “Blocking out the noise and being true to yourself.” She’s no stranger to the overwhelming nature of public opinion, but she emphasizes that staying authentic to who you are is key to surviving and thriving in such a competitive space.
Selena’s commitment to vulnerability also came to the forefront with her 2022 documentary, Selena Gomez: My Mind and Me. She admitted that releasing the project was nerve-wracking but ultimately brought her a sense of relief. “Once I released it, it felt like a huge relief,” she explained during an interview with CBS Sunday Morning. She believes that showing vulnerability is a strength, and though it doesn’t mean revealing everything, it’s about being honest and sharing what matters. “I knew I wasn’t the only one that felt that way,” she said, acknowledging that her openness could be a lifeline for others facing similar battles.
Selena’s journey of vulnerability shows just how important it is to be open and honest, even when it feels terrifying. By sharing her story, she’s not only helping herself but also paving the way for others to feel less alone in their struggles.