At the time, she battled all of this away from the public eye, but now she’s ready to shed light on what she went through.
“I think that we are better when we tell the truth. And so this is my truth,” she said during a speech she made last week at the McLean Hospital, where she was honoured for her work in reducing mental health stigma.
“Last year, I was suffering mentally and emotionally, and I wasn’t able to stay all kept up and together. I wasn’t able to keep a smile or to keep things looking normal. And it felt like all of my pain and anxiety washed over me all at once, and it was one of the scariest moments of my life,” she revealed.
“I sought support, and the doctors were able to give me a clear diagnosis. The moment I received that information I actually felt equal parts of terrified and relieved—terrified, obviously, because the veil was lifted, but relieved I finally had the knowledge of why I had suffered for so many years from depression and anxiety. I’ve never had full answers, awareness or anything about this condition. So I began to face it head on, as my mother taught me to face my fears and challenges when I was younger.”
Selena explained how important it was for her to get “educated” about her condition during her road to recovery.
“I talked to a lot of people that were suffering with the same things. I read a lot about it, and it was something that kind of took over and I became very passionate about it. I’ve met with some greatest doctors, and I’ve met with specialists, and I’m just fortunate enough to be able to work with some of the greatest doctors and psychiatrists and amazing people to help me guide me personally through my journey,” she shared in her speech.
She thanked the McLean Hospital for all their help to her personally, and for the great work they do for others. "I got to witness up close the dedication and care that goes into all that you do. And your work is extremely important, and I know that I, personally, am very grateful for it."
Selena also addressed her current state of mental health.
“Although this does not mean that it has all gone away, but I can say that after a year of a lot of intense work that I am happier, I am healthier, and I’m in control of my emotions and thoughts more than I’ve ever been, so I’m very happy about that.”
Her honesty resonated with her audience, and one attendee posted this video of Selena’s speech to his Twitter, thanking her “for being so open about your #mentalhealth”.
He added, “your bravery in seeking help and speaking out will inspire others to do the same.”
