Selena Gomez put her career and social media presence on hold after various health issues complicated her life. However, she hinted to fans that she is doing well in a rare but welcome Instagram post on Monday.
According to Women's Health, a source close to the 26-year-old singer told PEOPLE:
"She realized she needed to seek additional help for her ongoing emotional issues."
Gomez suffers from lupus, an autoimmune disease in which the body attacks its own tissues and organs.
She had undergone a kidney transplant in 2017.
Elle magazine reported that she took a break from social media and moved to Orange County for a "change of pace" after having a panic attack while she was hospitalized a second time due to a low white blood cell count in October.
"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 in a Instagram post on September 23.
But slowly, the "Back To You" singer is assuring fans that she is fighting through her recent challenges.
She wrote a cryptic message on her other Instagram page that features updates on both her and her on-off-ex, Justin Bieber – @biebergomezdayli.
In the post, the singer is sporting a white graphic tee that reads:
"I am grateful for all that is occurring in my life and all that is yet to follow. I push myself because no one else is going to do it for me."
Eagle-eyed fans were able to identify the hopeful message in the fashion statement.
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Doctors encourage patients with low white blood cell counts to lay low by avoiding crowds and public spaces.
Sean Fischer, M.D., a medical oncologist and hematologist at Providence Saint John's Health Center told Women's Health that patients are vulnerable to many infections "that they can't shake."
"When someone with lupus had a low white blood cell count, this generally would lead to physicians recommending...limited exposure to potential environmental pathogens."
Lupus side effects can have a negative impact on one's sense of self. Neeraj Gandotra, M.D., a chief medical officer from Delphi Behavioral Health Group, added that "it can shake your confidence and make you feel like you don't have control."
Fans are embracing any news of Gomez emerging from isolation, as she did back in May when she joined her bestie, Taylor Swift, at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California for a rendition of Gomez's hit "Hands to Myself."
On Christmas day, Gomez was spotted sporting a black and white hoodie that read "Reputation," the name of Swift's tour during which Gomez made the memorable cameo.
Gomez's fans continue to show her support and love.
Despite recent setbacks, Gomez's break has allowed time for creativity. According to a close source, she is keeping herself busy writing new material for an upcoming album.
We will be all ears when she is ready for us.
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