Selena Gomez has announced that she is taking some time off to focus on her health. The 24-year-old singer, who is currently in the middle of her Revival world tour, said in a statement that she needs a break to deal with panic attacks, anxiety and depression – a side effect of her lupus diagnosis.
"As many of you know, around a year ago I revealed that I have Lupus, an illness that can affect people in different ways," Selena told toofab. "I've discovered that anxiety, panic attacks and depression can be side effects of Lupus, which can present their own challenges.
Selena Gomez is taking a break to deal with anxiety, panic attacks and depression
"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 then thanked her fans for their continued support: "You know how special you are to me, but… I am doing everything possible to be my best," she said.
"I know I am not alone by sharing this. I hope others will be encouraged to address their own issues."
The 24-year-old is currently in the midst of her Revival world tour
It's not clear how much time Selena will be taking off, or when her hiatus will begin. She still has several upcoming dates in her Revival world tour, and was due to come to the UK in October.
According to the NHS, lupus is a complicated and poorly understood condition that affects many different parts of the body.
Its symptoms range from mild to life-threatening and include extreme tiredness, rashes (especially on the face, wrists and hands), joint pain and swelling.
Selena recently got into an online argument with ex Justin Bieber
Selena's decision to take a break comes two weeks after she got into a social media feud with her ex-boyfriend Justin Bieber. The pair publicly fell out when Justin criticised his fans for making negative comments about his girlfriend Sofia Richie.
Under an image of the couple, Selena wrote: "If you can't handle the hate then stop posting pictures of your girlfriend lol - it should be special between you two only. Don't be mad at your fans. They love you."
