Selena Gomez's health journey: A timeline of physical and mental battles
Selena Gomez has used her platform to openly discuss the serious health issues she faces, providing comfort and inspiration to millions who struggle with similar conditions. Her transparency sheds light on the often-misunderstood nature of chronic illness and mental health.
The autoimmune disease: Lupus diagnosis and progression
In 2013, Selena Gomez received a diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a chronic autoimmune disease. In lupus, the immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues and organs, causing widespread inflammation.
Common symptoms include fatigue, joint pain, rashes (like the butterfly-shaped facial rash), and photosensitivity. For Gomez, this has required aggressive treatment, including chemotherapy, to suppress her immune system during severe flare-ups.
Complications and the kidney transplant
Lupus can lead to lupus nephritis, where inflammation damages the kidneys. This complication led to kidney failure for Gomez, and in 2017, she received a life-saving kidney transplant from her friend, Francia Raisa. While the transplant addressed the kidney failure, lupus remains a chronic condition requiring ongoing management.
Mental health challenges: The bipolar disorder diagnosis
Chronic illness often impacts mental health. For years, Gomez experienced anxiety, depression, and panic attacks, which she revealed in 2020 was linked to a bipolar disorder diagnosis. Bipolar disorder involves significant shifts in mood, energy, and activity, ranging from mania to depression. Knowing the diagnosis helped reduce the fear surrounding her emotional fluctuations.
A holistic approach to management
Gomez's health management involves regular medical care from specialists, including rheumatologists and mental health professionals, as well as medication management. Lifestyle adjustments like prioritizing self-care, nutrition, and rest are also crucial. She also advocates for awareness by sharing her story.
Selena Gomez's illnesses vs. their treatment
Understanding her conditions involves comparing lupus and bipolar disorder and their management:
| Feature | Lupus (SLE) | Bipolar Disorder |
|---|---|---|
| Classification | Autoimmune disease | Mental health disorder |
| Underlying Cause | Immune system attacks healthy tissue | Brain chemical imbalances (neurotransmitters) |
| Common Symptoms | Chronic fatigue, joint pain, rashes, organ inflammation | Episodes of mania and depression, mood swings, changes in energy |
| Primary Treatment | Immunosuppressants, corticosteroids, antimalarials | Mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants |
| Gomez's Experience | Required kidney transplant due to severe complication | Deals with highs and lows, required specific medication management |
Living in the public eye
Dealing with these health issues publicly has brought challenges, including body-shaming due to weight fluctuations from lupus medications. Gomez has used these experiences to educate the public and emphasize that her health is her priority. Her journey also highlights the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being.
Beyond the diagnoses: Advocacy and hope
Gomez has turned her experiences into advocacy by launching the Rare Impact Fund to support youth mental health services and by sharing her story in her documentary, My Mind & Me. Her journey demonstrates that chronic conditions can be managed with proper care and support, and that vulnerability can be a source of strength.
Conclusion
Selena Gomez's openness about her lupus and bipolar disorder diagnoses, including her kidney transplant, has fostered important conversations about chronic illness and mental health. Her story is a powerful example of resilience and self-advocacy, showing that managing long-term health battles is an ongoing process.
