Selena Gomez is not in a good place right now.

And, as a result, she needs her own space right now.

In the Instagram Live video featured here, the singer opens WAY up what's been going on in her life and in her mind of late... while explaining to followers why she has to take a social media hiatus for an undetermined period of time.

"I feel like I've been private so much because I'm so terrified of what these magazines are going to say about me," Gomez says in this footage, likely referring to various rumors about how she's been reacting to Justin Bieber getting engagemed to Hailey Baldwin.

It sounds like some of these reports may be erroneous.

But either way, they've been getting to Selena and she explained to fans why she must take a break from Twitter and Instagram for awhile.

"As much as I am grateful for the voice that social media gives each of us, I am equally grateful to be able to step back and live my life present to the moment I have been given," she says, adding:

"Kindness and encouragement only for a bit! Just remember- negative comments can hurt anybody's feelings. Obvi."

Gomez then got especially personal.

She delved into the mental struggles she has faced for years, which help explain why Selena has often checked into rehab.

"Depression was my life for five years straight," she says here, through tears.

"I think before I turned 26 there was like this weird time in my life [where] I think I was kind of on auto pilot for about five years.

"Kinda just going through the motions and figuring out who I am and just doing the best I could and then slowly but surely doing that."

For the singer, the constant spotlight on her actions made her feel like "every time I try to do something right, every time I try to do something good I felt like people were picking me apart."

Gomez even scoffs at those who give her props for compiling millions and millions of Instagram followers.

She says she doesn't have some "tactic" for being popular online and the focus of society on follower count is ridiculous... and harmful:

"It's just a number and it's insane that people are so obsessed with a number. It's like chill out. Who gives a f-ck?"

The video featured here is long, but worth viewing.

Gomez gets very personal (and also touches on Taylor Swift), while doing her best to be as candid as possible.

Check it out now.

Selena Gomez is once again in need of professional help.

According to TMZ, the pop star was hospitalized on two occasions over the past two weeks for health concerns related to Lupus.

(Gomez was diagnosed with this autoimmunse disease in 2015; the illness can damage almost any part of the body - including joints, skin and internal organs - because it causes the immune system to be unable to tell the difference between foreign invaders and healthy tissues.)

The first hospital visit took place toward the end of September and was the result of a low white blood cell count in the wake of her kidney transplant last year.

The artist was released after a few days days later ...

... but had to be re-admitted last week because her blood cell count remained at a dangerous level - and this development prompted Selena to fall into a downward emotional spiral.

She insisted on leaving nearly as soon as she was under doctors' care again, only for these same doctors to say she had to stay in the hospital.

TMZ writes that Selena had "a meltdown" and "freaked out."

She allegedly tried ripping the IV' out of her arm, with multiple sources referring to the episode as "an emotional breakdown."

Once she recovered from this state, Gomez agreed to check into an East Coast psychiatric facility, at which she is receiving dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).

This is a treatment method designed to identify, and then change, negative thinking and behavioral patterns. She has undergone the same treatment before.

Let's all pray it works this time.

“She has had a tough few weeks and the panic attack in the hospital was the tipping point,” a source tells People Magazine, confirming the TMZ report and adding:

“She realized she needed to seek additional help for her ongoing emotional issues. She’s surrounded by close family and has a lot of support. She’s doing better now."

We're very glad to hear it.

Sadly, however, this incident and everything related to it wasn't all that hard to see coming.

Just two weeks ago, Gomez took a break from social media, explaining why in a heartfelt video that touched on her battle with depression.

"As much as I am grateful for the voice that social media gives each of us, I am equally grateful to be able to step back and live my life present to the moment I have been given," she wrote.

"Kindness and encouragement only for a bit! Just remember— negative comments can hurt anybody’s feelings."

In this Instagram Live session, Gomez admitted that she had been dealing with mental health issues for about five years.

She also said she had been "kinda just going through the motions and figuring out who I am and just doing the best I could and then slowly but surely doing that" for about half a decade.

Translation: Gomez is truly unsure about who she is and who she wants to be.

Watch the emotional footage here:

Selena Gomez: I Need a Break, You Guys. Here's Why.

Many folks are naturally wondering whether Justin Bieber's engagement to Hailey Baldwin is playing a role in Selena's latest troubles.

The short answer, of course, is that we have no idea.

We'd rather not speculate.

Gomez has entered rehab at various times over the past few years and Lupus is a serious disease that does result in a myriad of physical ailments.

It's only natural for these physical ailments to eventually take a mental toll, as well.

It's also only natural for anyone to have a very hard time dealing with a serious ex moving on in such a significant manner.

All we can do right now is wish Selena Gomez the best and hope she has a full recovery.

We're thinking of you, Sel.

And we love you.

View Slideshow: The Weeknd Drops New, Sad Music: Is It About Selena Gomez?

Selena Gomez is in need of your prayers at the moment.

But instead of wishing the singer well during an especially difficult time for her, many dumb people on the Internet are instead wishing Hailey Baldwin ill.

The dots here are not hard to connect.

But they're still sad and upsetting to consider.

Gomez, as previously reported on The Hollywood Gossip, agreed this week to another trip to rehab.

She had been hospitalized twice over the past month or so due to a low white blood cell count, which is a common ailment that results when one has Lupus.

According to TMZ, however, Gomez suffered what a source described as an "emotional breakdown" during this second hospitalization, as she was basically sick of being sick.

Shortly afterward, she checked into an East Coast psychiatric facility, at which she's receiving dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) meant to identify and change negative thought/behavioral patterns.

Selena, of course, has been battling mental health issues for five years.

She recently admitted as much in a moving Instagram video that announced a hiatus from social media.

Despite this well-documented history of suffering from serious illness, a handful of Internet users out there simply assume Gomez is all sad and in need of help because her ex-boyfriend is engaged.

This ex-boyfriend is Justin Bieber.

And this fiancee is Hailey Baldwin.

And the latter is now receiving death threats and hearing harsh criticism from those who blame her for Selena's ongoing problems.

“Hey, Selena in hospitalized. Be ready Justin will drop you anytime soon for his real love Selena Gomez. Your time will coming,” wrote one angry person on Instagram.

Added another:

“So sad that youre [sic] always the second choice."

As you can see from some other examples below, these are not isolated incidents.

Lots of dumb and cruel trolls out there really are targeting Baldwin in response to Gomez seeking a new round of professional treatment.

This is very dangerous and just plain stupid.

Selena admittedly has a mental illness.

She has Depression with a capital D.

She isn't just sad for some short period of time because an old flame has moved on with a new woman.

Not only is the above line of thinking, as represented in these comments, mean to Baldwin and unecessarily inflammatory -- they are disrespectful to those who suffer as Selena does.

Depression is a sickness.

It can maybe be triggered by outside events at some, but it is always present and it can't be blamed on anyone; not the person who has it and not the actions of any third party.

It's silly and ignorant to think otherwise.

Many times over the past few months, sources have said that Gomez is actually doing just fine in the wake of Bieber's engagement. 

She hasn't been moping all around time, thinking her life is over. She knows she can do a lot better!

So, instead of directing any wrath at Baldwin or writing cruel remarks on social media, please take a deep breath here, folks.

Dedicate your time to thinking positive thoughts and focus them entirely on Gomez. She needs all she can get right about now.

View Slideshow: 31 Celebrities Who Have Been to Rehab

Earlier today, we reported on the news that Selena Gomez has checked into rehab following what's been described as an emotional breakdown.

One insider state that Gomez is seeking treatment in a facility "on the east coast" in order to cope with her anxiety "over her repeated physical health issues."

Those issues include lupus and other ailments, which culminated in Gomez undergoing a kidney transplant last year.

Now, Radar Online is reporting that the singer's loved ones are attributing her latest struggles to her “refusal to live a sober life.”

The site reports that Selena's mother, Mandy Teefey, has openly stated her desire to stage an intervention after revealing that she believes Gomez's drinking is endangering her life.

“Doctors have all told her she needs to stop,” one source claims.

“Her family says she needs to stay sober, or she could die.”

Gomez has not opened up about the allegations of hard partying, and it'll likely be quite some time before she speaks on her decision to seek further treatment.

She has, however, admitted that she continues to enjoy the occasional drink despite past health issues.

“As far as my personal life, someone sees me having a glass of wine? I could give two sh-ts," the singer said in a recent interview with Elle.

"I’m not trying to hide. That’s my life.” 

Though Gomez has been described as "stubborn" with regard to her life choices, sources say she was deeply disturbed by friend Demi Lovato's recent overdose.

One insider revealed that upon hearing the news, Gomez was not only concerned with her friend but filled with anxiety that she might suffer a similar fate.

“Selena is freaking out about this,” the source said at the time.

“She feels like it could have been her.”

Whatever the cause of her latest upheaval, we hope Selena is able to find the help that she needs.

Our thoughts go out to Gomez and her loved ones during this immensely difficult time.

Earlier this week, new broke that Selena Gomez had entered treatment following an emotional breakdown.

Fans were heartbroken. We all love her and want her to recover and to take all of the time that she needs to address her health.

Apparently, her ex Justin Bieber feels the same way -- because the Biebs was seen seeking comfort and looking positively inconsolable.

Cosmopolitan reports that Justin Bieber was spotted at Hillsong Church on Wednesday evening in Hollywood.

This was just a short while after news broke that Selena had entered treatment.

Justin appeared to be seeking comfort and reassurance.

Some even said that he looked visibly upset, rattled, or distressed.

It's no surprise -- he and Selena were in an on-again, off-again relationship for the better part of a decade, only ending things earlier this year.

Selena Gomez had to go the hospital twice in recent weeks as part of her ongoing battle with lupus.

Lupus is a devastating autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the healthy organs of the body.

In Selena's case, it is life-threatening. Over the years, she has had to undergo chemotherapy to combat it.

She also lost kidney function and had to undergo a transplant just last year.

Selena had to return to the hospital recently because her white blood cell count was alarmingly low.

Upon her second visit to the hospital in as many weeks, Selena reportedly panicked, suffering a mental breakdown.

She then agreed to enter treatment for her mental health so that she will be better equipped to address her physical health.

So, is this going to have an impact on the Biebs' engagement and marriage?

Now, we hate to even mention this, especially after hateful morons blamed Hailey Baldwin for Selena's health struggle.

But we have to remember that, last year, it was upon learning that Selena had nearly died that Justin felt inspired to reconnect with her.

Her health crisis prompted him to reach out to her mother, Mandy Teefey, who eventually caved and gave him her number.

Selena then wasted ... sorry, spent ... the next several months repeating old mistakes with the Biebs.

That's totally her right, but some wonder if her latest crisis has reawakened his desire to be with the woman he once believed was his destiny.

It's no surprise that Justin went looking for comfort at Hillsong Church.

And we're not just saying that because Justin is super Christian or because the Hillsong Church is known for catering to its celebrity membership.

Justin and Selena used to attend Hillsong together.

Some even accused him of being manipulative, of using "church dates" with both Selena and Hailey to essentially trick them into staying with him.

It seems extremely likely that many of the church folks who were lending Justin comfort this week had spent time with him and Selena.

It's great that Justin turned to his emotional support network for comfort.

We all have our coping mechanisms. Given that Justin has a history of substance abuse issues, we're glad that he has people to whom he can talk.

We certainly hope that he is not having second thoughts about marrying Hailey, even if he is getting the urge to be Selena's white knight.

Justin and Hailey have their marriage license, and are expected to hold a wedding some time before November 8.

They might not consider themselves married until they have a genuine, religious wedding.

But you shouldn't propose if you think that you might go running back to your ex at the first sign of trouble.

Selena emphatically does not deserve this. She deserves the world.

It absolutely makes sense that she would panic while undergoing still more medical tests and treatments.

Everyone has a breaking point, and Selena has spent so much time in hospitals and doctors' offices in her young life.

We are rooting for her to make a full recovery, both mentally and physically. No matter how long it takes.

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As we reported on Thursday, Selena Gomez has checked into rehab following an episode that's been described as an "emotional breakdown."

The specifics of the situation remain unclear, but accounts concur that Selena checked in voluntarily after being encouraged by her loved ones to seek help.

There have been reports that Selena is drinking heavily again despite undergoing a kidney transplant.

However, others maintain the singer is conscientious about her health and checked into rehab in response to the anxiety and depression that have plagued her her entire life.

Whatever the case, it seems that Selena felt the need to take a hiatus from her many pressures and obligations.

Unfortunately, it seems many of those pressures have proven to be inescapable:

“She’s genuinely so nice, thoughtful and sweet but she feels responsible for a lot of other people and has since a young age," a source close to the situation tells Us Weekly.

"There’s a lot of pressure."

The insider goes on to say that that despite her many years in the spotlight, Gomez still finds fame to be somewhat of a burden:

“She’s sensitive; she also doesn’t want to do a big press run and get asked about things that she doesn’t want to talk about," the source says.

From there, accounts differ, as one insider tells Us that the return trip to rehab was not “too surprising to many of those who have worked Selena.”

Another source, however, notes that Gomez “showed no signs that she was battling depression or anything” in recent weeks.

“She seemed shy and a little nervous, but nothing seemed wrong," says the second insider.

"Selena seemed excited about what she was doing,” 

Over the past several years, Gomez has been refreshingly candid about her struggles with mental health.

“There won’t be a day when I’m like, ‘Here I am in a pretty dress — I won!’” she said in a recent interview.

“I think it’s a battle I’m gonna have to face for the rest of my life, and I’m OK with that because I know that I’m choosing myself over anything else.”

We wish her all the best in the difficult days ahead.

Back in July, Demi Lovato was hospitalized following a heroin overdose that nearly claimed her life.

Last week, Selena Gomez checked into rehab in the wake of what's been described as a "devastating" emotional breakdown.

Having found career success at roughly the same time, Demi and Selena are more than just friends -- they share a unique understanding of the pressures of fame and the ways in which a fan base of millions can be both a blessing and a burden.

In many ways, tens of millions can relate to Selena's plight, as anxiety, depression, and addiction are astonishingly prevalent afflictions in modern America.

But in some respects, Demi is one of only a handful of people who can truly understand what Selena is going through right now.

So it's something of a comfort to know that Demi has reportedly reached out to Selena to offer support during this tremendously

“This just breaks Demi’s heart but she definitely understands what Selena is going through more than anyone right now,” a source close to the situation tells Radar Online.

“She has spoken to her and will continue to be there for her just as Selena was there for Demi following her overdose.”

Yes, it seems Selena was an invaluable source of love and support in the early days of Demi's latest stint in rehab.

Of course, this is a trying time not only for Demi and Selena but for their worried loved ones, as well.

Thankfully, it seems Selena and Demi's mothers have found solace in one another as they attempt to guide their children through the rough waters of addiction and mental illness.

“Demi’s mom Dianna and Selena’s mom Mandy have been close friends forever too, and Dianna has definitely been a huge source of support and strength for Mandy this week, just as Mandy has always been for her," says the source.

“It's just been so hard to watch their kids suffer right now, especially after they were so sure that Selena and Demi had overcome their demons.”

Sadly, the singers' current situations serve as painful reminders that recovery is a lifelong process.

The majority of the millions of Americans who have struggled with these issues may never have recorded a platinum record, but they can certainly relate to Demi and Selena in that respect.

Our thoughts go out to both young women and their families during this painful time.

We'll keep you updated on both situations as more information becomes available.

View Slideshow: Demi Lovato: Everything We Know About Her Overdose So Far

Last month, fans were stunned by the news that Justin Bieber and Hailie Baldwin had gotten married in a small, private ceremony in New York City.

Just weeks later, Justin's most famous ex, Selena Gomez, suffered an emotional breakdown that resulted in her hospitalization.

Fans unfairly blamed Baldwin for Gomez's breakdown, and while such criticisms are patently absurd, the timing of the two headline-making events makes it difficult to argue that there's no correlation.

Now, sources close to Gomez are confirming that Bieber's abrupt engagement and marriage did play a role in her fragile mental state -- but that's not the whole story.

“Selena can be a delicate flower, especially because she has had constant medical struggles, but Justin’s engagement and quick marriage threw her off guard and hit her hard,” one insider tells People magazine.

“She and Justin have been on and off for years, although they were so young when it all began,” the source adds.

“Justin was her first big love, and she isn’t over him.”

Fortunately, the insider confirms that Selena's condition is improving, and she's fully committed to the hard work of recovery.

“Selena is feeling better,” the source tells People.

“She is getting the help she needs.”

As for Justin, he's said to be having a tremendously difficult time and is deeply concerned with his ex's well-being.

“This was his first great love, and while he was young and traveling around the world as a superstar, he learned a great deal from her,” one insider says.

“He was extremely upset over what has happened to Selena,” adds the source, who People identifies as a figure in the Miami music scene.

“He feels like she is part of his life and he wants her to be happy and healthy."

Asked if Selena's issues could have a negative impact on Bieber and Baldwin's relationship, the insider admitted:

“It could be a problem down the road.”

Just when you thought the Justin-Selena drama had permanently come to an end.

We guess these two will remain inextricably linked in the minds of fans until the end of time.

Selena Gomez suffered an emotional breakdown during her battle with lupus, and had to be hospitalized as a result.

As it turns out, her very much engaged ex Justin Bieber is feeling wrecked over her current health.

Despite his engagement, he's said to be feeling "confused."

According to what a pair of sources tell E!, Selena Gomez's emotional breakdown and subsequent hospitalization is just too much for the Biebs.

An insider reports that Justin feels "conflicted and confused" over his own feelings.

"They have both had emotional struggles," a source explains.

Justin's angry outbursts over the years were well documented, and people close to him have spoken openly about his past struggles with substances.

"And," an insider details, Justin and Selene "bonded over that in the past."

Now, however, things are different.

Even if Justin wanted to come rushing to her side, that doesn't seem likely.

"Justin and Selena are not in touch," a source makes clear.

That's no surprise. For one thing, Selena is cut off from all but a few trusted individuals.

"But," an insider notes. "Him hearing the news about Selena definitely upsets him."

"Justin," a source adds. "Also feels guilty."

Apparently, it is Justin's innate nurturing nature, rather than merely their lengthy relationship history, that has him deep in his feelings.

"He wants to help everyone," an insider says.

Awww. Bless his heart.

A source insists that "he truly wants Selena to be happy."

"And," an insider explains. "It's upsetting to know she's battling health issues."

That makes a lot of sense. it's upsetting to us that Selena is going through all of this, too.

Justin has admittedly "been very emotional" since this news broke.

However, insiders make it very clear that he is taking his engagement to Hailey "very seriously."

In other words, don't expect him to drop her and go running back to Selena.

To him, a promise to get married is sacred.

In fact, a source says that Justin raced to the altar with Hailey in an effort to "show her he was serious this time."

Ah, yes -- the best possible reason to marry someone is to prove a point.

So it sounds like Justin and Hailey's engagement -- or marriage, depending upon whom you ask -- is secure for now.

But how is Selena doing?

An insider reveals that Selena is "already feeling better" now that she is receiving treatment.

Selena is "getting the help she needs," a source affirms.

Lupus is already a hell of a thing, but we're glad that she's getting emotional support as she copes with it.

"Depression is something she's always struggled with," an insider explains.

That makes sense. Tens of millions of Americans cope with depression every day.

"But whenever it gets really bad for Selena," a source details. "She removes herself from social media."

Shortly before her breakdown, Selena took a step back from Instagram.

"And," an insider continued, Selena then "withdraws from people who aren't a handful of the people she trusts."

That is a smart policy. Don't over extend yourself when you are at your lowest point.

View Slideshow: 27 Celebrities Who Suffer From Mental Illness

Justin Bieber has been struggling with feelings of guilt in the wake of ex Selena Gomez's breakdown.

That continues, and a new report says that he believes that his newfound happiness and marriage are to blame for his ex's downward spiral.

Poor Hailey, in the mean time, is trying her best to be supportive.

Earlier this month, shortly after news broke of Selena Gomez's breakdown, the Biebs was photographed crying with his wife, Hailey.

HollywoodLife reports that now, even weeks later, Justin is still feeling guilty for Selena's health crisis.

An insider says that Justin "won’t stop blaming himself for her breakdown."

"Deep down," the source says. "Justin knows she still has feelings for him."

Oh boy.

"And," the insider continues, Justin fears "that his marriage to Hailey would’ve upset her."

In reality, of course, Selena was undergoing treatment for an alarmingly low white blood cell count.

It appears that the treatments themselves and the strain of her ongoing health battle with lupus was too overwhelming.

But in Justin's mind, this is all about him.

"Selena was Justin’s first love,” the source points out.

“And," the insider continues. "Everyone can see that he still cares for her."

Hailey Baldwin deserves better than this, folks.

As you can imagine, she has definitely noticed -- and she's even trying to be helpful.

"Hailey is one of the kindest people you’ll ever meet," the source says.

That is totally consistent with everything that we've heard. She is nothing like her father or uncles.

"And," the insider continues, Hailey "is doing her best to support Justin."

“But the whole Selena situation is putting a strain on their marriage," the source admits.

We can imagine so.

The good news is that Justin and Hailey are taking steps to make sure that their marriage is off to a healthy start.

The two of them have reportedly entered some form of couple's counseling.

"Justin and Hailey want to ensure that they deal with any hiccups like adults," an insider explains.

The source says that they want to deal with things now "rather than letting them drag out and develop into something bigger."

That is ... astoundingly wise and healthy.

A lot of couples could benefit from doing the same.

Of course, in the mean time, some people are worried about Justin's behavior.

Recently, he was out and about barefoot and wearing a bathrobe. That's normal for a college student but a little odd from an adult celebrity.

Justin, a source says, "has been acting bizarrely."

“His friends are begging him to get help," the insider reports.

Some worry that Justin may fall back on old habits -- from bad behavior to substance abuse.

We think that those concerns may be a little premature.

It's funny -- though not in a way that makes you laugh -- that Hailey and Justin are in this situation because of Justin's ex's health.

As soon as these two became engaged, they were immediately compared to Ariana Grande and Pete Davidson's engagement.

Well, Ariana and Pete fell apart, and it was Ariana's ex's fatal overdose that is said to have ultimately broken them up.

Now, Justin and Hailey are having their newly wedded bliss strained by Justin's ex's health.

Will their relationship survive? And, if Justin is really this hung up on Selena, should their relationship survive?

View Slideshow: Justin Bieber: All His Sexual Conquests, RANKED!

It's been over a month since Selena Gomez checked into rehab after suffering what's been described as "an emotional breakdown."

These days, Gomez is out of rehab, but the struggle to rebuild her life and maintain her mental health continues.

Sources close to the singer say she's committed to the hard work of recovery -- but it's been a slow and difficult process.

“Selena’s out of rehab but regularly attends therapy to keep her on the right track,” one insider tells Life & Style.

“Although Selena still has her insecurities, she’s in a much better headspace than she was a couple of months ago.”

So it sounds like the progress has been continuous, but very gradual.

This is virtually always the case with mental health issues, but we're sure Selena's fans would prefer to hear that she's 100 percent on the mend.

Naturally, fans and tabloids alike have been eager to pinpoint the cause of Selena's breakdown.

Some have attributed her fragile mental state angst over Justin Bieber's marriage to Hailey Baldwin.

Others say Selena was devastated by friend Demi Lovato's near-fatal overdose back in July.

Still others claim that Selena was drinking heavily in the weeks before she checked into treatment, despite the fact that she recently underwent a kidney transplant.

In all likelihood, of course, there was no single cause for Selena's breakdown.

It's possible that all of those circumstances factored into her anxiety -- and it's equally possible that her breakdown was entirely unrelated to any of them.

Sources close to the singer have confirmed that she became distraught upon learning that Bieber planned to marry Baldwin.

“She was telling everyone she was OK about Justin and Hailey,” a source close to Selena told In Touch magazine last month.

“But deep down she was crushed.”

Obviously, that's not to say that Bieber's new relationship was what prompted Selena to seek treatment.

But like any of the other recent events in Gomez's life, it may have been the final straw.

In all likelihood, we'll never know for certain -- and in the end, it really doesn't matter.

The important thing is that Selena continues to take the steps necessary to ensure that she's protecting her mental health.

We wish her all the best in her recovery.

Note to celebrity gossip blogs:

Selena Gomez doesn't look like she's struggling very much to us.

For the first time since she checked herself in rehab this fall for various emotional issues, the singer has been spotted out and about.

And she appears to be doing just fine, contrary to previous reports.

On Tuesday, Selena and close friend Bailee Madison hit up Big Bear, California for some snow tubing and skiing and general merriment all around.

Madison chronicled the adventure via the photo above, writing as a caption "my snow [angels]" and including with these words some heart emojis.

Another pal, Connar Franklin, also shared several snapshots of the group enjoying its excursion, writing "snow buds part 2" as her caption.

Just check out that giant smile on Selena's face!

Gomez has been rarely seen lately after previously revealing how complications from a kidney transplant in 2017 negatively affected her emotional state.

Francia Raisa, who actually donated her kidney to Gomez last year, remembered post-operation as a tough time for both patients.

"Selena and I both went through a depression," she told Self Magazine, adding:

"She had some complications with hers, and she has bigger scars than I do that (weren't) expected."

Raisa even expounded as follows:

"I remember getting a text message from Selena saying, 'I'm so scared I might die,' and I was like, 'What?'...

"That's when she got the complication where the kidney turned and broke an artery and she had to go back in and they actually had to take a vein out of her leg... and build a wall around her artery."

Very scary stuff.

Gomez, of course, was diagnosed years ago with Lupus, which is an autoimmune disease that messes with your joints and organs.

It can leave one often feeling exhaused, both mentally and physically.

Back when Selena entered a facility for treatment in October, many assumed she was just feeling very sad over Justin Bieber's engagement to Hailey Baldwin.

In reality, however, things were (and things remain) far more complicated than that.

According to TMZ a few months back, the 26-year-old singer was at her Studio City residence the last week of September when an emergency hit.

She had an alarmingly low white blood cell count in the wake of the aforementioned kidney transplant, which prompted a relative to drive Gomez to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.

She was released a few days later...

... but the low blood cell issue persisted and then sent Gomez into a downward spiral after she had to be re-admitted.

TMZ wrote at this time that Selena suffered "a meltdown" and "freaked out," actually ripping the IVs out of her arm. 

Once she calmed down, she agreed to seek professional assistance.

She's now out of rehab and, as you can see in the pictures above, feeling far better about her life overall.

Let's hope and pray that doesn't change.

Back in October Selena Gomez checked into rehab following what's been described as an "emotional breakdown."

Last week, Selena was spotted for the first time since leaving treatment.

Fans were delighted to see that Selena looked happy and healthy.

But some were puzzled by the presence of a woman who was not a known member of Selena's entourage, but who seemed to be with the singer at all times.

"Selena has a life coach with her at all times now," a source close to the situation tells Radar Online,

But while the full-time companion has been described by some as a sobriety coach, Radar's insider is quick to point out that the unidentified woman actually plays an even more important role in Gomez's life:

"It's not like a sober coach, because Selena's issues are much greater than just alcohol," says the source.

While Selena's mental health is reportedly on the upswing these days, those closest to the singer strongly encouraged her to hire a life coach for this early stage of her recovery process.

Family and management team "wanted someone to be there for her at all times," says the insider.

Fortunately, Selena was able to choose her new companion herself, and it seems she's quite pleased with her choice.

"Selena selected her life coach ... She is doing well right now," the source claims.

In addition to talking through her issues with her life coach, Selena is reportedly "going to therapy, working with a psychologist, and just trying to stay real active."

In addition to her struggles with depression and anxiety, Gomez is battling a number of physical health issues, including Lupus.

Selena underwent a kidney transplant in 2017, and she was recently hospitalized for a low white blood cell count.

As is often the case with this sort of thing, there's been much speculation about what caused Selena's breakdown.

Some have attributed it to her health issues, while others claim Justin Bieber's marriage to Hailey Baldwin sent Selena into a downward spiral.

In all likelihood, it was a confluence of factors -- including the vagaries of her brain chemistry -- that drove Selena to seek help.

We're glad she did, and we wish her all the best in her continued recovery.

Selena Gomez has been radio silent for a while.

Although she was spotted in December, the beloved singer and actress has not posted to social media since September.

Now, Selena has finally broken her silence to address her concerned fans.

On Monday, January 14, Selena Gomez reappeared on Instagram.

She posted three new photos -- each black and white -- and penned a heartfelt message to her millions of followers.

"It’s been awhile since you have heard from me," Selena acknowledges.

"But," she says. "I wanted to wish everyone a happy new year."

Two weeks into the year is still a fine time for that.

"And," Selena writes, she wanted "to thank you for your love and support."

"Last year was definitely a year of self-reflection," Selena writes.

She continues, noting that 2018 was also a year of "challenges and growth."

That is very true for most of us, but considering all that happened to Selena that year, it's especially true for her.

"It’s always those challenges which show you who you are," Selena notes.

"And," she continues. "What you are capable of overcoming."

"Trust me," Selena assures her fans and followers. "It’s not easy."

"But," she says. "I am proud of the person I am becoming."

She should be! Selena has been amazing from day one and that's only going to remain true as time goes by.

"And," Selena continues, she has reached a place emotionally and mentally where she can "look forward to the year ahead."

Good for her!

Selena concludes her post: "Love you all."

Selena's previous post to Instagram, on which she has reigned supreme for some time, was in September.

In October, she entered a treatment facility.

The reason that she needed this rehab was for anxiety and depression.

Selena has lupus, which ravages her body and threatens her life.

It is reported that this very physical health battle impacts her mental health, which is incredibly understandable.

When news first broke that Selena had entered treatment back in October, rumors of course went flying.

Some reports said that Justin Bieber was convinced his marriage had caused her downward spiral.

No offense, but nobody's dick is so good that withdrawal from it lands somebody in the hospital. Just ... no.

The truth of that matter, as far as we can tell, was that Selena's ongoing treatments for lupus exact a toll upon her mental well being.

It's normal to get worn down over time if you are chronically ill.

Fortunately, Selena is in a place financially where she can take a break and receive top-notch treatment for as long as she needs to.

Obviously, those of us who have been huge fans of Selena are chomping at the bit for her to get back into the recording studio.

She needs to do things at her own pace and take her time.

Does that mean that it'll take a little while longer before we get some fresh bops? Yes.

But even though Selena's music is some of the greatest in human history, we need to remember our priorities.

Selena's health comes first.

Back in September, Justin Bieber and Hailey Baldwin got married in a small civil ceremony in New York City

The newlyweds have reportedly spent much of their honeymoon period planning a big, star-studded ceremony for everyone who didn't get to see them exchange vows the first time.

But it seems the big day has been postponed several times for an unexpected reason.

As you may recall, Selena Gomez entered rehab following an emotional breakdown not long after Justin and Hailey tied the knot.

These days, Selena is out of treatment, but insiders say she's still in a fragile state.

Now, Justin is reportedly worried that news of a massively-attended ceremony involving her ex and many of her friends might cause Selena to suffer a devastating relapse.

“Hailey and Justin may already be man and wife but their low-key court ceremony was supposed to just be a formality before their real big day," a source close to the situation tells Radar Online.

The insider adds that Justin and Hailey have been “discussing plans for months but now Hailey is worried that it’s never going to happen.”

“Justin feels terrible about Selena’s breakdown and he doesn’t want to send her over the edge by having a big A-list wedding,” says the informant.

“He’s trying to be respectful because he’ll always care about Selena, but it’s frustrating Hailey to no end.”

It's a thorny situation, and one that's reportedly left both Justin and Hailey feeling deeply frustrated.

Bieber feels that he's finally thinking of others first and trying to atone after an adolescence that was entirely devoted to indulging his every impulse.

Hailey, on the other hand, feels that Justin is prioritizing his ex's happiness over hers and sacrificing the present to the past.

“In her mind, this is her day and she should be Justin’s priority," says the insider.

"She’s putting her foot down!”

It sounds as though the wedding will take place in the next few weeks, whether Justin feels totally comfortable with the decision or not.

Here's hoping he's wrong in his belief that it'll serve as a source of emotional trauma for Selena.

This week, Selena Gomez broke her Instagram silence for the first time in several months.

Now, she is surfacing in photographs online in the company of a fellow actor.

Is Selena dating Austin North?

HollywoodLife reports that Selena Gomez has been spending more and more time with fellow actor Austin North.

"They enjoy going on trips that don’t involve alcohol," the insider reveals.

"And," the source says. "Although Selena’s been advised not to jump into a relationship just yet."

The insider continues: "who knows what the future holds!"

Life & Style also gushes that Austin has, if anything, been a "positve influence" on Selena's health.

That is more than any of us can say for certain past boyfriends of hers.

The public first connected Selena and Austin when the two were spotted in a group photo that Austin shared on instagram.

The two are bundled up on the slopes of Big Bear, California. (We have zoomed in on the couple for you)

"Just a couple young people being adventurous for the day," Austin tagged the photo.

Given that he was surrounded by multiple people, people very naturally latched onto the word "couple."

He also tagged Selena, which is not super discreet.

Austin is a fellow actor and just a few years younger than Selena.

We have to assume that he shared the pic with permission.

"He understands the pressure that comes with fame," an insider tells HollywoodLife.

"And like Selena," the source says, Austin "is a big believer in God."

That may be an understatement -- as he dated Duck Dynasty star Sadie Robertson for four months.

That pair of devout Christians broke up in August of 2018.

Additionally, Austin and Selena reportedly attended a New Year's Eve church service together.

Just this week, Selena finally broke her months of silence, speaking on social media for the first time since September.

"It’s been awhile since you have heard from me," she began.

"But I wanted to wish everyone a happy new year," Selena expressed. "And to thank you for your love and support."

"Last year was definitely a year of self-reflection, challenges, and growth," she acknowledged.

Selena continued: "It’s always those challenges which show you who you are and what you are capable of overcoming."

"Trust me, it’s not easy," she concluded. "But I am proud of the person I am becoming and look forward to the year ahead. Love you all."

Selena also delivered a more succinct update this week.

"Lots to look forward to in 2019," she teased. "I can’t wait to share the projects I’ve been working on with you."

That is exciting!

She revealed that the first of those projects was where she was, in California.

It is possible that she and Austin have been hanging out as "work friends," as actors on the same movie (or other project).

But work friends can sometimes blossom into something more.

We hope that Selena does what is best for Selena. She deserves the world.

Zac Efron and Selena Gomez coupling up is everything we never knew we needed. 

I mean, it makes all the sense in the world! Not only because they both share a history of being former Disney stars but because they're both, well, insanely gorgeous. 

Both known-to-be-single hotties co-starred together in the movie Neighbors 2: Sorority Rising back in 2015 and though a rumor or two speculated that the two were dating, it was quickly denied. 

But their time may have finally come to take on Hollywood as the cutest duo ever.

And then there will be an engagement...

And then a beautiful wedding on the beach!

And babies! 

Ok, ok ... don't get too excited. Zac is taking their relationship much slower, starting by just a follow on Instagram ... for now.

The Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile star did make the first move and followed Selena Gomez, but the timing is everything. 

Zac hit "follow" almost one day after posting a very shirtless and very muscly photo of him and his brother, Dylan Efron.

The thirst trap was disguised as a birthday post for his bro, but his intentions seemed to be set on something else ... or someone else?

Fans captured screenshots of the moment this morning, according to E!, with one fan photoshopping Selena's face alongside a still from Zac's 2010 movie Charlie St. Cloud letting them both know, we obviously approve.

While the Anxiety featured singer doesn't follow him back at this point, this could all mean nothing OR it could totally be the start of something new! 

Either way, fans are already shipping this couple hard. 

Over the past few years, Selena has steered clear of social media due to ongoing health issues.

And after last year's loss of on-again, off-again boyfriend Justin Bieber to model Hailey Baldwin, we are ready to see Selena Gomez truly happy. 

And while she doesn't need a man to make her life sunny again, it sure can't hurt. 

Fans are taking to Twitter saying, "he would be an awesome and real man for her" and "ARE YOU TELLING ME ZAC EFRON FOLLOWED SELENA GOMEZ OMG PLS DATE ALREADY IM WAITING SINCE 2009." 

We all know the first real step you can take towards winning a woman starts with an Instagram follow. 

And even though she told Elle last September she "isn't on the internet," Selena has had some recent activity that allows us to believe she is back on the platform and hopefully will take notice of her new hunky follower.

Zac and Selena sitting in a tree, P-O-S-T-I-N-G.

First comes a follow, then comes happily ever after?

Or something like that. 

View Slideshow: 10 Most-Liked Instagram Photos of 2016

Several weeks ago, Selena Gomez finally returned to Instagram after a worrisome absence.

Now, she's using the photo-sharing platform to share beautiful snaps of herself in a white bikini on a rocky beach.

And she's not alone -- she's celebrating a loved one's impending marriage. Take a look:

Selena Gomez is making up for lost time by posting gorgeous photos of herself in a stunning white bikini.

She is not the center of attention in these pictures, snapped in Cabo San Lucas.

"My best friend is getting married," Selena Gomez writes in the caption.

"So," she continues. "We celebrated her!"

Selena praises her bestie as the "Future Mrs. Lopez."

It looks like one beautiful bachelorette party.

Not tagging people in photos is usually something you see from older celebrities on Instagram, but Selena left her photos blank.

But you can still see her alongside her friend and bride-to-be, Courtney Barry, in photo after photo.

Also pictured are close pals Ashley Cook and Raquelle Stevens.

Some may be scratching their heads, having heard Selena refer to other women as her "best friend" in the past.

We should note that Selena appears to be one of those women who uses "best friend" to refer to a tier, not a single position.

(That's anathema to a lot of us, but it probably helps Selena avoid playing favorites with her close-knit group of friends)

Just last month, Selena returned to Instagram after a lengthy hiatus.

"It’s been awhile since you have heard from me," she acknowledged to her fans and followers upon her return.

"But I wanted to wish everyone a happy new year," Selena wrote.

"And," she continued. "To thank you for your love and support."

"Last year was definitely a year of self-reflection, challenges, and growth," Selena remarked.

Absolutely -- though, unfortunately, Selena has endured multiple years like that recently.

"It’s always those challenges which show you who you are and what you are capable of overcoming," Selena affirmed.

Sometimes, you don't really know how strong you are until you prove your resilience.

"Trust me, it’s not easy," she assured her fans and followes.

"But," Selena wrote. "I am proud of the person I am becoming."

"And," she concluded. "Look forward to the year ahead. Love you all."

Back in October, Selena Gomez was undergoing yet another treatment in her ongoing battle with lupus.

The autoimmune disorder has ravaged her body, resulting in an urgent kidney transplant in the summer of 2017.

In late 2018, reports say that Selena became overwhelmed with anxiety and panic after enduring yet another procedure.

She then reported to rehab to promote her mental wellness.

It is very difficult to fight a physical ailment if your mental well-being is hurting in the process.

By December, however, she was spending quality time with her loved ones, including bestie Taylor Swift.

Selena has reportedly also thrown herself back into her work, which is often a very healthy sign of recovery.

We wish her the best, and we of course extend our congratulations to Courtney Barry -- soon-to-be Courtney Lopez!

View Slideshow: The Weeknd Drops New, Sad Music: Is It About Selena Gomez?

Selena Gomez and Justin Bieber are probably the most popular ex-couple ever.  

And in case you somehow forgot, after many misleading rumors and a few flings later (The Weekend we're looking at you), Jelena was no more.

Justin moved on from his on again-off again lover for good in 2018, abruptly deciding to marry his longtime best friend, Hailey Baldwin. 

And although the Sorry singer is now a married man, that doesn't mean his ex can't be there for him, right?

A source tells In Touch Weekly that Selena has finally addressed the situation and opened up about her feelings.

"She's sent Justin very loving messages of support," the insider reveals. She is "wishing Justin the best."

The Canadian native tied the knot with the model in a secret ceremony at a Manhattan courthouse in September 2018. 

And even though we were (artificially) happy for Justin, we couldn't help but question Selena's thoughts on the sudden news. 

The former Disney star entered rehab following an emotional breakdown not long after Justin and Hailey's BIG announcement.

Though she has since been released, sources share that Selena is doing much better and has no more tears over her first love.  

"She insists she's moved on to be secure, spiritually stable and fulfilled," the source said. "And hopes he can too."

It's no secret that the Wolves singer stepped away from the spotlight and her social media platforms during the over-discussed wedding reports.

She claimed it was to be "more present to the moment," though many speculated, including Justin that his marriage had caused her to spiral. 

But over the past few months, the singer has returned and seems happier than ever! 

Recently, she shared beach snaps from a bachelorette party with her friends. "My best friend is getting married, so we celebrated her!" she captioned the cute bikini photo.

"Future Mrs. Lopez," the Texan native wrote. 

Meanwhile, Justin and Hailey are getting settled into their new lives as husband and wife. 

The couple even admitted to Vogue that marriage isn't as easy as they expected. 

"We're two young people who are learning as we go," the blondie shared. 

"I'm not going to sit here and lie and say it's all a magical fantasy. It's always going to be hard. It's a choice."

But that doesn't mean they're not ready for all the challenges that wedded life brings. 

"We're really young and that's a scary aspect, Hailey said. 

"We're going to change a lot. But we're committed to growing together and supporting each other in those changes."

"That's how I look at it," she continues. "At the end of the day, too, he's my best friend. I never get sick of him."

So overall, Selena enjoys a sunny girls trip at the beach while Hailey has to convince us she didn't make a mistake at marrying the 24-year-old pop star.

We are just glad we can move on and trust that the three are content with their current conditions. 

And now that Selena has offered her blessing to the newlyweds, maybe Justin and Hailey will click play on the wedding planning and give us a real ceremony! 

View Slideshow: Justin Bieber Deletes Instagram, Twitter Throws #JustinDeactivatedParty in Celebration

With barely any provocation this week, Justin Bieber declared to the world that he'll always love Selena Gomez. He said that.

The dude is married. He also said that he loves his wife, but that has to rub Hailey the wrong way, right?

According to a new report, Hailey's not the only one annoyed. Selena's pretty pissed, too.

RadarOnline reports that, according to an unnamed friend of Selena Gomez, she doesn't get why he's bringing her up at all.

"Selena shut that door," the insider characterizes.

In other words, she cut the Biebs out of her life for the last time a year ago and she hasn't looked back.

"And," the source continues. "She is in a good place."

The insider explains that Selena is only doing so well "because he is not a part of her life anymore."

"She wants nothing to do with either of them," the source says.

It's not a petty thing.

It's not a mean thing.

Selena is practicing self-care.

"And," the insider notes, Selena "doesn’t understand why he needed to bring her up."

But it doesn't sound like Selena intends to reach out and tell Justin off.

And we shouldn't expect her to contact him indirectly through his wife, either.

"She is avoiding him and Hailey at all costs," the source reveals.

Like anyone hoping to kick a bad habit and avoid a relapse, she has an entire support network keeping her on the straight and narrow.

"And," the insider adds. "Her family and friends are making sure of this."

Selena doesn't need to get bogged down in Justin's drama.

"Selena has her own life to worry about," the source reminds the world.

She's a talented actress and one of the most brilliant singers on the planet.

She's also in a fight for her life against the ravages of lupus.

"And," the insider says of Justin. "He is not her concern.” 

Whatever impulses Selena may have once had to rush to Justin's side because he's clearly in distress are gone for one simple reason:

That's not her job anymore.

“That is all on his wife Hailey now," the source points out.

"She took that oath," the insider explains. "When she vowed to be there for him in sickness and in health."

That's a great point.

All of this hubbub got started when Justin responded to a fan's accusation that he only married Hailey to get revenge on Selena.

"I absolutely loved and love Selena she will always hold a place in my heart," Justin wrote.

That's past and present tense.

"But I am head over heels in love with my wife," he affirmed.

"And she is absolutely the BEST THING that has ever happened to me," Justin concluded. "Period."

Hailey Baldwin and Justin Bieber's marriage got off to an awkward or even rocky start.

From the rushed proposal, just weeks after they were dating again, to getting married out of impatience before a real wedding, it's a little messy.

Justin has also opened up about his struggles and asked his fans to pray for him.

But that doesn't mean that he and Hailey aren't happy with each other or in love.

Meanwhile, Selena can put that unfortunate chapter of her life behind her and move forward.

View Slideshow: Justin Bieber Spills on Sex with Hailey Baldwin: It's a Blessing from God!