Selena Gomez recently shared candid insights into her journey with self-acceptance, past relationships, and her evolving life perspectives in interviews and her latest documentary My Mind and Me. The 32-year-old singer and actress, who has long been in the public eye, addressed topics ranging from emotional struggles and body image to the challenges of dating under the media spotlight, specifically mentioning her high-profile relationship with Justin Bieber.

Gomez, who dated Bieber from 2011 to 2018 in a turbulent on-and-off relationship, reflected on how the relationship left lasting impacts. In My Mind and Me, Gomez detailed that her breakup led to a turning point in her life and music career, inspiring her 2019 hit song Lose You to Love Me. The song captures her journey through heartbreak and toward self-love and healing. Gomez collaborated on the song with friends and fellow artists Julia Michaels and Justin Tranter, revealing that they wrote it in just 45 minutes, making it one of her most personal and emotionally charged pieces.

In addition to addressing the emotional impacts of her past relationships, Gomez spoke openly about her experiences with body shaming and the scrutiny of her appearance. Over the years, fans and the media have commented on her fluctuating weight, especially during her time with Bieber. Fans recently reignited the conversation on social media, pointing out that Gomez seemed “skinnier” when she was dating Bieber. In response, Gomez expressed disappointment over the continued fixation on her appearance. She has also commented in previous interviews on how hurtful body shaming has been, sharing that negative comments took a toll on her mental health at the time.

Having been diagnosed with lupus, an autoimmune disease, Gomez has had to navigate health complications that affected her body, ultimately requiring a kidney transplant in 2017. She has spoken about the weight gain caused by medication and her frustration with societal pressures to look a certain way. Gomez has since used her platform to advocate for body positivity, recently sharing a photo on Instagram captioned with “there’s more to love,” embracing her body and encouraging her followers to reject unrealistic standards.

In a revealing interview with NPR, Gomez also described her past relationship with Bieber as emotionally challenging, even referring to it as a period of “emotional abuse.” While she didn’t elaborate on specific incidents, she did say that the experience forced her to grow and understand her boundaries in relationships. Gomez expressed pride in her resilience and in the fact that she has moved past that chapter of her life with grace, acknowledging that going through heartbreak ultimately shaped her into a stronger person.

The pop star’s relationship with social media has evolved as well, with Gomez having previously taken breaks from platforms like Instagram due to the anxiety they caused. She explained that her obsession with followers and likes reached an unhealthy point, leading her to step back and reevaluate her relationship with social media. Now, she uses her platforms more intentionally, particularly to promote her beauty brand Rare Beauty and advocate for mental health awareness.

Today, Gomez is focused on her own growth and healing, encouraging others to set healthy boundaries and practice self-compassion. Her journey serves as a reminder of the importance of self-worth and resilience in the face of adversity. Despite the public scrutiny of her relationships and body, Gomez has continued to use her platform to promote positivity and inspire others, proving that healing is possible, even after the toughest challenges.

Fans continue to speculate on her relationships and friendships, particularly with Bieber and his wife, Hailey Bieber. Recently, Hailey dispelled rumors of ongoing conflict, saying that she respects Gomez and that there is no drama between them. Both women appear to be moving forward peacefully, focusing on their respective paths and careers.

As Gomez continues to share her story, she resonates with fans who appreciate her honesty and vulnerability. Through her music, interviews, and social media presence, she is actively rewriting her narrative, choosing self-love and authenticity over the pressures of fame.