Selena, 

I am so proud of you for telling your truth and letting the world in on the life of a true hero. You have been put through the wringer so many times, yet you continue to rise and not give up. I was able to check myself into a mental health treatment facility in January of 2020 because of the help and courage of someone like you, gave me to seek help. When I met you in New York after Rare was just released I was able to tell you that I was leaving in a few days for treatment and you pulled me in for the biggest hug and showed me that what I was doing was okay. You’ve shown me that it’s okay to not be okay. 

Like many people who struggle with mental health, it’s not a one and done thing. It’s a constant battle between our minds and ourselves. I have my good days, but of course those bad days seem to supersede the good. I’m still working with a psychiatrist and a therapist to work on myself and not give up on myself again. You have shown so many of us that taking a step back and looking at ourselves to make sure we’re taking care of our mental health is something that’s needed. 

This documentary is going to change lives. You have already changed and saved so many lives and now it’s time the world sees what us fans have seen forever; the heart and love you have for other human beings. There is not one single person like you out there- YOU are rare. You are making it easier for people to seek help and open up to someone that may be able to help, or just listen. 

I would never have been able to tell my parents about going to treatment, let alone go to treatment, if it weren’t for you showing me it was okay to do. My Mom is able to try and educate herself on the importance of mental health and what she can do to support me; all because of you. You teach me something new every single day and I just hope you never forget how much you are needed in this world. As someone I love very much once said… 

“So even when your bones feel like weights, and it’s hard to lift the smile on your perfect face. You can still find a peaceful place, close your eyes until you’re floating up in outer space. It’ll be alright, they’re just jealous of your highs so they can knock you down, but like the air you can RISE.” 

Thank you for helping ‘my mind and me.’ I love you forever and always, Sel.