Selena Gomez has openly discussed the challenging reality of her bipolar disorder diagnosis.

Fans of the 33-year-old Only Murders In The Building star may recall that she first shared this diagnosis publicly in her 2022 documentary, My Mind & Me.

The film documents Gomez's journey after being diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 2020, following a period of psychosis that resulted in treatment at a mental health facility.

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings, ranging from depressive lows to manic highs.

Individuals with bipolar disorder often experience episodes of depression, with feelings of deep sadness and lethargy, as well as episodes of mania, marked by elevated mood and hyperactivity.

She told Rolling Stone that she had visited four such facilities throughout her twenties.

"I’m going to be very open with everybody about this: I’ve been to four treatment centers," she shared.

"It was in my early twenties that things started to feel really dark. I felt like I had lost control over my emotions, whether they were extremely good or bad."

In that same interview, Gomez mentioned feeling 'so nervous' about the documentary's release, saying: "Given the platform I have, it's as if I'm sacrificing a part of myself for a greater good.

"I don't want to sound dramatic, but I almost chose not to release it. To be honest, just a few weeks ago, I wasn't sure I could go through with it."

Today, however, it's evident that she's grateful she did.

Speaking to Allure in a brand-new interview released on Tuesday (9 September), she reflected: "I'm very glad it came out, but that's not necessarily who I am now."

"To be honest, I can't watch it. But it's only because I'm not in that place anymore."

Selena Gomez bravely opened up about her mental health in a brand-new interview (Instagram/@selenagomez)

Referring to the documentary as a 'time capsule', Gomez expressed her hope that it helps others understand themselves better or encourages them to explore their own mental health challenges.

"Oh, that really dark thought? I thought that. Those really high highs? I’ve had those," she explained. "I try to make people feel seen so they don't feel what people say 'crazy' is."

Being in the public eye isn't easy, and Gomez is all too familiar with that struggle. She's faced a fair amount of harsh online comments.

"I got stung by a person saying I was fat. Why is that coming up?" she questioned.

Such comments can be triggering for the celebrity, especially after dealing with previous criticisms about her weight. She may appear strong, but the reality is that she remains 'sensitive'.

Despite the painful memories associated with her disorder, her film offers an opportunity for others in similar situations to feel recognized.

Fast forward three years from its release, Gomez is still on a journey of self-discovery.

She manages her mental health through dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), which the Cleveland Clinic characterizes as a type of talk therapy that focuses on helping individuals accept the reality of their lives and behaviors while also teaching them how to change.

"You just definitely have to be willing to do the work, and that part can be tricky," Gomez added.

If you're experiencing distressing thoughts and feelings, the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) is there to support you. They're open from 5pm–midnight, 365 days a year. Their national number is 0800 58 58 58 and they also have a webchat service if you're not comfortable talking on the phone.