Recently, some fans have expressed concern for Britney Spears after her latest Instagram activity.

On her 43rd birthday on Tuesday, she posted videos revealing that she has relocated to Mexico and playfully claimed to be turning 5 years old and starting kindergarten. YSL News has contacted Spears’ representative for further details.

These videos, along with a previous post where she seemed to dance with knives, have generated mixed feelings among her supporters, raising worries. According to therapists, such anxieties are common; Spears is a cherished icon, and her fans genuinely care about her health. However, her mental wellbeing has been a subject of intense and at times inappropriate public scrutiny.

The situation prompts a vital discussion: how should one appropriately express concern for someone, particularly a public figure whom you do not know personally? Additionally, how can Spears’ fans provide meaningful support?

“As compassionate and empathetic individuals, it’s natural to be concerned about someone — and that’s perfectly normal,” says psychotherapist Stephanie Sarkis. “However, if it starts to overwhelm you and disrupt your ability to function daily, it might be time to reassess and possibly seek help.”

‘Supporters are truly hoping for her success’

A significant factor in fans’ protective feelings for Spears stems from her battle to escape a conservatorship, which had been highly publicized and led to rallies advocating for her freedom. The pop star was placed under this conservatorship in 2008 at the age of 26 following a very public breakdown the year before, where her erratic behavior was extensively documented by paparazzi.

Momentum to abolish Spears’ conservatorship surged in February 2021 after the release of the New York Times documentary “Framing Britney Spears,” which illuminated the issue and highlighted the #FreeBritney movement. Public outrage crescendoed following an emotional testimony from Spears at a June court hearing, where she described the conservatorship as “abusive” and requested its termination without undergoing another psychological assessment.

Sarkis notes that this context amplifies the public’s care for Spears’ well-being, and she believes that most of the concern is genuinely well-meaning.

“People are truly rooting for her because we inherently want others to succeed and thrive,” Sarkis asserts. “We wish to see them overcome challenges and reach their full potential.”

Furthermore, Spears’ struggles have transformed her from merely a pop icon into a symbol of resilience, autonomy, and reclaiming one’s voice after oppression.

“She embodies a significant global message about the repercussions faced when individuals with mental health challenges are stigmatized, marginalized, or disregarded,” Sarkis explains. “She serves as a voice for those who have experienced similar situations, such as conservatorships or silencing.”

Public reactions to Britney Spears and what they reveal about us

Sarkis mentions that feeling concerned for someone exhibiting unusual behavior is quite normal, especially concerning a celebrity.

<p”When observing someone from a distance, people can experience feelings of helplessness, wanting to assist, but feeling unsure of how,” she notes.

It is essential to recognize that our feelings about a celebrity often mirror our own personal experiences rather than reflecting on the celebrity themselves. Many might connect Spears’ posts to their own struggles with mental health or to experiences with loved ones facing similar issues.

If your feelings of worry or helplessness regarding a celebrity become overwhelming, it’s a powerful moment for self-examination.

“It’s an excellent chance for introspection to consider, ‘What experiences connect me to this situation?'” Sarkis suggests. “You might realize you feel out of place or that society isn’t fully accepting of you.”

It’s not only Spears’ fans who could gain from this type of reflection; those who criticize and troll her also need to look inward, according to relationship therapist Philip Lewis.

“I would ask them the same question,” Lewis states. “What is it that drives your reaction, and can you find ways to be more understanding and empathetic?”

Since mental health is such a delicate topic—and you can rarely assume what someone else might be facing—it is crucial that when you share your concerns for someone, you should center your comments on your personal experiences instead of theirs.

“I recommend that when you witness something like this, it’s best to discuss your own feelings and how you are reacting to the situation,” Lewis suggests. “That’s the most important thing to convey.”