Singer Lovato reveals rehab stint was to treat eating disorder
Demi Lovato has revealed her recent rehab stint was for an eating disorder.
The 18-year-old singer-and-actress - who left an unnamed Chicago-based facility in January after being admitted in November – entered the clinic because she was struggling with the “life-long disease” but is now coping with it thanks to the treatment she received, though she knows it is a problem she will battle for the rest of her life.
She said: “I wish I could tell every young girl with an eating disorder, or who has harmed herself in any way, that she’s worthy of life and that her life has meaning. You can overcome and get through anything.
“Yes, there have been times when I definitely have been tempted to get rid of my dinner. But I will deal with it for the rest of my life because it’s a life-long disease. I don’t think there’s going to be a day when I don’t think about food or my body, but I’m living with it, and I wish I could tell young girls to find their safe place and stay with it.”
Lovato encouraged those dealing with similar issues to seek help from their friends and family immediately rather than trying to deal with it by themselves, and says she is now focused on being “happy”.
Writing for Seventeen magazine, she said: “If you are going through that dark period, go to your family and closest friends. Don’t put yourself in danger. It’s very crucial that you get your feelings out – but don’t ever inflict harm on your own body because your body is so sacred.”
“I don’t let anyone’s insecurities, emotions, or opinions bother me. I know that if I am happy, that’s all that matters to me. And it’s OK to be selfish like that sometimes, when it comes to your well-being. Do what makes you happy, and don’t care what others think.”
