Selena Gomez demands urgent focus on mental health at Academy Women's Luncheon

In December 2023, Selena Gomez served as the keynote speaker at the Academy Women's Luncheon, an event organized to emphasize the significance of mental health awareness and the need for resources for underserved communities. Gomez, known for her candid discussions about her own mental health challenges, including her diagnosis of bipolar disorder, underscored the essential role of collective action in providing necessary mental health resources to marginalized groups. In her speech, she reflected on the feelings of isolation that mental health issues can create and how important it is to foster community support among those facing similar struggles. The event took place at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, drawing a crowd of prominent female figures from the entertainment industry, including Ariana Grande, Olivia Wilde, and Amy Adams. During her address, Gomez not only highlighted her personal experiences but also emphasized the need for the film industry to prioritize women's voices and contributions. This aligns with her recent work on the film "Emilia Pérez," which features talented women both in front of and behind the camera. Moreover, during the luncheon, Gomez praised the efforts of the Academy Gold Fellowship program, which is dedicated to supporting emerging women filmmakers. Acknowledge the challenges that women face in the film industry, she expressed her admiration for the work being done to create more opportunities and resources for women's creative pursuits. Gomez articulated that being part of such a gathering was a source of inspiration and empowerment for her, reinforcing the significance of female solidarity in both the film industry and beyond. Ultimately, the luncheon emphasized the crucial need to prioritize mental well-being and uplift women in the creative fields, setting a tone for further discussions and initiatives aimed at tangible results in the community. Such gatherings are pivotal for inspiring change and addressing issues that often go overlooked, particularly concerning mental health and representation in the arts.