Selena Gomez commenced World Mental Health Day by presenting herself in a Schiaparelli dress during the London photo-call for Emilia Pérez. In the afternoon, she participated alongside her mother, Mandy Teefey, and licenced social worker Minaa B for the keynote address at Wondermind’s Mental Fitness Summit.
Gomez discussed her personal journey regarding mental health, indicating that she engaged in self-isolation for an extended period. Currently, she relies on a limited network. “My social circle is limited, yet I have a clear understanding of who constitutes my inner circle,” she stated. “I need to analyse the situation thoroughly.” Having a therapist is beneficial, but it’s equally valuable to have individuals in your environment who are willing to listen. Releasing the factors contributing to your stagnation can lead to a significant sense of liberation, alleviating that constriction you may be experiencing.
The panel examined optimal strategies for self-care during periods of significant uncertainty, particularly when one experiences a reluctance to engage with the outside world. At that point, Gomez disclosed that she experienced significant difficulties with this issue previously, leading her to no longer utilise her bedroom for sleep.
“I exhibit a high level of anxiety,” she initiated. “It resembles a critical scenario, and I believe engaging in constructive self-dialogue, even if it may seem unconventional, has significant effects.” Before exiting the vehicle, I anticipate a multitude of sounds and distractions—this is not a daily occurrence, but it is a possibility. I must remind myself to breathe and acknowledge that ‘this experience is a gift.’ Even if I am not in the best mood, each interaction that results in a smile from another person invariably enhances my day, regardless of my own feelings.
“I actually released a documentary [My Mind and Me],” she continued, highlighting the film project that analysed her experiences with psychosis and bipolar depression. “I exhibit some divergence from my mother, as my prolonged periods in my bedroom have led to a disassociation with that space, to the extent that I no longer utilise it for sleep, given my association of it with a particularly challenging phase.”
She stated, “Experiencing anxiety can be significantly impairing at times, and indeed, I found myself reluctant to leave my bed for years, partly due to my lack of engagement in the necessary tasks.” One must possess self-belief to engage in the work that will provide genuine enlightenment.
Gomez analysed her engagement with social media, indicating that she had to condition herself to eliminate feelings of guilt associated with expressing her struggles.
“I make a concerted effort to implement these [social media] breaks, but I have also recognised the necessity of ceasing my attempts to justify myself. There is no reason for me to feel remorseful for expressing my truth, for acknowledging that I am not well, and for pointing out that your comments were unkind,” she began. “My mother has consistently emphasised that external distractions will persist, yet it is crucial to identify the moments when I affirm, ‘I am a good person, I am kind, I work diligently, I express gratitude, and I appreciate the small aspects of life,’ and I require that reinforcement.” I must admit, there is a degree of discomfort involved. I cannot be categorised among those who can overlook it. The difference between online discourse and face-to-face interactions is startling, especially when it comes to the harshness of people’s language, which frequently reflects a lack of empathy and consideration for others. It simply causes discomfort.