Demi Lovato thinks it’s “okay to have a mental illness”.
The 22-year-old singer has been dealing with bipolar disorder for several years and has, therefore, launched her own campaign aimed at tackling the negative stigma against mental illness.
She said: “I just think mental illness is something people need to learn more about.
“I want people to know it’s okay to ask for help and it’s okay to have a mental illness.”
The chart-topping performer – who was diagnosed as bulimic, bipolar and addicted to drugs and alcohol in 2011 – explained that her father, Patrick, suffered from similar illnesses before he passed away in 2013.
She told PEOPLE magazine: “I watched him live a very unfortunate life because of the lack of access to treatment.”
However, the ‘Heart Attack’ singer – who’s previously spent time in rehab – revealed she’s doing well in her own battle against addiction and mental illness.
She said: “I’m doing really well. I’m successful, but most importantly I’m healthy and happy, and I do not let my disease define who I am.”
Demi gave special thanks to her boyfriend, Wilmer Valderrama, 35, saying he’s been “so helpful”.
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