Selena Gomez on how therapy has helped her better 'understand' herself
In a candid interview for Coach's "Dream It Real" podcast, Selena Gomez opened up about the highs and lows of fame, going to therapy, and people she doesn't know judging her just because she's a celebrity.
This was the first in a series of podcasts coming from the fashion company. Others will feature Michael B. Jordan and "Game of Thrones" star Maisie Williams.
The actress and singer said when she began her career she was young and "insecure," but that her roots in Disney did help her to be a more honest role model for her fans.
She said a company like Disney made sure she was "being a good influence" on the younger generation that grew up with her shows and music.
"It's obviously one of the biggest and greatest things that's ever happened to me ... I’m grateful I had that opportunity," she added, about getting her start on programs like "The Suite Life of Zack & Cody."
But as for being politically correct, not having any major controversies in her past or rumors that she's "trained to speak this way," Gomez says that's just not the case. She says what you see is what you get.
"I don't want to be anything that's a show or a persona, I just don't," she said.
And then there's social media.
Gomez was at one time the most followed person on Instagram, but she's pulled back a bit from the platform, and now we know why. She took a three-month hiatus from social media late last year before resurfacing in January.
"I got kind of depressed looking at these people who look beautiful and amazing, and it would just get me down a lot," she said about why she felt the need to take breaks.
Though she loves having a platform to communicate with fans and people, she wants to protect the "younger generation" because she feels like they will start to develop anxiety after being exposed to so much, so often, so soon.
She also added that Instagram is "unrealistic" in a lot of ways.
And while she's flattered that some guys will often comment on her photos and tell her she's beautiful on Instagram, she adds, "I would just love for someone to love me for the person I am."
Gomez also admitted to Harper's Bazaar last year that she's had a lifelong battle with with depression and anxiety.
She said it's "not something I feel I’ll ever overcome," but something she'll always have to work on.
Because of this, Gomez said she's a believer in therapy, and opening up about her hopes and fears is tough but "amazing."
"It's just one of the most important things to get to know yourself," she added. "[Therapy] has helped me understand myself and my childhood a lot better."
