About six months ago, Selena Gomez took the brave step to go into a rehab facility in order to help with the depression and anxiety she was experiencing as a side effect of lupus. "I've discovered that anxiety, panic attacks and depression can be side effects of lupus, which can present their own challenges," she said in an interview recently. She superstar's decision to focus on her mental health is an important one, and here is what we can all learn from her struggles with depression and anxiety… and maybe help those we know personally dealing with the same issues.
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It's important to take time off if you need it.
When the singer decided to take time off of the Revival World Tour to deal with depression and anxiety, she told People: "I want to be proactive and focus on maintaining my health and happiness and have decided that the best way forward is to take some time off."
Prioritizing your health is vitally crucial to healing.
Facing up to her own challenges, Selena Gomez also said: "I need to face this head on to ensure I am doing everything possible to be my best."
Share with others in order to help them (and yourself).
Selena also hopes thar her difficulties will help her fans and others struggling with depression and anxiety, as she said: "I know I am not alone by sharing this. I hope others will be encouraged to address their own issues."
Don't fight back against the haters.
Sometimes, it's best to ignore the mean comments that may come your way… as she demonstrates: "I wanted so badly to say, 'You guys have no idea. I’m in chemotherapy. You ass—–.' I locked myself away until I was confident and comfortable again."
Only share your diagnosis when you're ready.
She told Billboard: "I waited for the right time to talk about it because I am in a great place, and I’m very healthy. I’m not trying to be loud about it: It was time to use my platform to help."
