A year ago, pop star Selena Gomez revealed that she was diagnosed with lupus. The “Same Old Love” singer announced Tuesday that she will be taking a break from her career due to her anxiety, panic attacks and depression, which are side effects of lupus.
“As many of you know, around a year ago I revealed that I have lupus, an illness that can affect people in different ways,” she told People. “I’ve discovered that anxiety, panic attacks and depression can be side effects of lupus, which can present their own challenges.”
“I want to be proactive and focus on maintaining my health and happiness and have decided that the best way forward is to take some time off,” she added. “Thank you to all my fans for your support. You know how special you are to me, but I need to face this head on to ensure I am doing everything possible to be my best. I know I am not alone by sharing this, I hope others will be encouraged to address their own issues.”
“It is not commonly known that depression, anxiety and panic attacks can be side effects of lupus,” co-CEO and co-president of the Lupus Research Alliance Kenneth M. Farber said to People. “We are so proud of Selena for taking care of herself and bringing awareness to this sometimes very misunderstood illness.”
Before the release of her latest album Revival, Gomez underwent chemotherapy after her lupus diagnosis.
It is currently unclear when Gomez will begin her career hiatus. The singer has been on her Revival world tour since May and has tour dates scheduled for North America, Europe, Asia, and Latin America through the rest of the year. She has also been developing a TV series about her life.
