Selena Gomez says she doesn’t think she’ll fully overcome anxiety and depression, and here’s why it’s so important she said that out loud
Anxiety and depression are often still taboo topics in many families and communities, which is why it’s important that a public figure like Selena Gomez is so candid about her struggles with mental health. In a recent interview with Harper’s Bazaar, Gomez admitted that she doesn’t think she’ll ever fully overcome her anxiety and depression — even though she’s vowed to dedicate 2018 to working on her mental health.
“I’ve had a lot of issues with depression and anxiety, and I’ve been very vocal about it, but it’s not something I feel I’ll ever overcome. There won’t be a day when I’m like, ‘Here I am in a pretty dress — I won!’ 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,” Gomez revealed.
"I want to make sure I’m healthy. If that’s good, everything else will fall into place," she continued.
Gomez’s words aren’t just important because they shed light on the importance of seeking treatment (according to Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), only 37% of those who suffer from anxiety seek help), but they emphasize a reality of depression and anxiety that’s seldom discussed.
Anxiety and depression are ongoing issues for the vast majority of people who struggle with them, and there’s no fast, permanent “cure.”
Those of us who struggle with depression and anxiety have to work on it every day, and it’s encouraging to have Gomez speak honestly about the realities of working on her mental health. Those who don’t struggle with depression or anxiety sometimes fail to understand the day-to-day struggle, and it’s something that those who do struggle will relate to immensely.
Thanks so much for being real about this, Selena. We know it will make an impact and help others realize they are absolutely never alone in their mental health journey.
If you’re suffering from anxiety or depression but don’t know where to begin, you can visit Psychology Today to find a counselor in your area.
