Pop star Selena Gomez is taking a break from the stage to take care of her health.
"As many of you know, around a year ago I revealed that I have lupus, an illness that can affect people in different ways," the 24-year-old told People.
"I've discovered that anxiety, panic attacks and depression can be side effects of lupus, which can present their own challenges."
The young superstar revealed she had the disease in a 2015 interview.
"I was diagnosed with lupus, and I've been through chemotherapy. That's what my break was really about. I could've had a stroke," Gomez said at the time.
"I wanted so badly to say, 'You guys have no idea. I'm in chemotherapy. You're assholes.' I locked myself away until I was confident and comfortable again."
Gomez hopes the break will help her recover.
"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 says.
"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."
Newshub.
