FILE - In this April 7, 2016, file photo, Selena Gomez arrives at WE Day California at the Forum in Inglewood, Calif. Gomez told People magazine on August 30, 2016, that she is taking some time off to deal with anxiety, panic attacks and depression stemming from her battle with lupus. (Photo by Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP, File)
August 31, 2016 - 3:32 AM
Selena Gomez says she's taking a break to deal with anxiety, panic attacks and depression stemming from her battle with lupus.
The pop singer tells People magazine the conditions are side effects of the autoimmune disease, "which can present their own challenges."
The 24-year-old says in a statement to People that she wants "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." Gomez says by sharing her struggles, she hopes "others will be encouraged to address their own issues."
Gomez told Billboard last year that she had undergone chemotherapy as part of her treatment for lupus.
News from © The Associated Press, 2016