Who I have the same questioned this topic

My Google Photos icon has disappeared from my text messaging app. I can't access it to send saved pics. My messaging app allows saved pics on my camera, emojis, gifs, camera access, etc but the Google photos icon is gone. It still appears in my apps tray and all pics are there. Was the a recent update on the messaging app? Can anyone help me access my saved Google photos while texting???

I've tried multiple solutions and nothing seems to work. It appears there are newer options available in my message app when I hit the plus sign to attach or insert something, but my Google photos icon doesn't show up anywhere. I'm Uber frustrated. Not sure what to do now.