Selena Gomez on her 'freeing' bipolar diagnosis and happiness away from social media

‘I haven’t been on the internet in four and a half years’
Selena Gomez
Photo credit Tibrina Hobson/Getty Images

Selena Gomez is opening up about her mental health and social media. In fact, she took a four-year break from the internet all together – and it changed her life completely. The singer and actress spoke candidly about everything on Monday during an exclusive interview with Good Morning America. 

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“I haven’t been on the internet in four and a half years,” Gomez admitted. “It has changed my life completely. I am happier. I am more present. I connect more with people. It makes me feel normal.” Gomez says that she understands how powerful social media is and what it has done for the world. Meanwhile, the “Lose You To Love Me” singer has a team that curates her social media accounts, which has millions of followers.

After years of speaking about her depression and anxiety, Gomez revealed her bipolar diagnosis in 2020. “It was really freeing to have the information,” she told GMA. “It made me really happy because I started to have a relationship with myself, and I think that’s the best part.” Following her initial public announcement, she also mentioned that receiving the diagnosis felt like “a huge weight lifted.”

In addition to her personal journey, Gomez launched Wondermind, a multimedia company focused on mental health. “I really want people to be understood and seen and heard,” she said, announcing her new venture during the interview. Wondermind is co-founded by her mother Mandy Teefey and businesswoman Daniella Pierson. Wondermind will provide journaling exercises, podcasts, resources, and other “mental fitness” tools for its users.

Audacy's I’m Listening initiative aims to encourage those who are dealing with mental health issues to understand they are not alone. If you or anyone you know is struggling with depression or anxiety, know that someone is always there. Additionally, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-800-273-8255.

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Featured Image Photo Credit: Tibrina Hobson/Getty Images