Singer and Actress Selena Gomez has opened up about her long and complicated journey with mental health, revealing that she was initially misdiagnosed before being correctly diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder. Speaking on the debut episode of her husband Benny Blanco’s podcast Friends Keep Secrets, Gomez shared that she struggled for years to understand what she was experiencing.

The 33-year-old singer said she knew early on that something was wrong but faced confusion during her search for answers. According to Gomez, different professionals offered varying explanations, leading her to try several therapists before receiving a clear diagnosis. She said the process was emotionally difficult and complicated, noting that discussing mental health issues and seeking consistent treatment can be challenging even for those actively trying to find help.

Gomez revealed that she went through four rehabilitation programmes and consulted numerous therapists during her journey. Over time, she said she has learned to identify the early signs of a manic phase, allowing her to manage the condition more effectively. Blanco, who joined her on the podcast conversation, described how she often becomes aware of changes in her mood and sometimes recognises when she may be entering a manic state.

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During the discussion, Blanco explained that manic episodes can be delicate situations for both individuals and their partners. He said people experiencing such phases may not always realise what is happening in the moment. Gomez added that having a supportive partner who understands the condition and responds with empathy can make a significant difference in managing mental health challenges.

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterised by extreme mood swings that include emotional highs, known as mania or hypomania, and lows associated with depression. During depressive episodes, individuals may feel persistent sadness or hopelessness and lose interest in daily activities. Manic or hypomanic phases, on the other hand, can involve elevated mood, increased energy, or irritability, often affecting sleep, judgment, behaviour and the ability to think clearly.

According to the World Health Organization, about 37 million people worldwide were living with bipolar disorder in 2021. Experts note that diagnosing the condition can be difficult because its symptoms often overlap with other mental health disorders, and many people seek help only during depressive episodes. As a result, the disorder may take years to identify accurately, highlighting the importance of awareness, proper evaluation and long-term support.

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