Demi Lovato speaks about treatment for eating disorder: 'It was an intervention. I wanted freedom from the inner demons.'
Disney star Demi Lovato is speaking out for the first time since she released a statement on video last month, following her admission to a treatment facility in November.
Talking to Seventeen, Lovato explained to fans: "I basically had a nervous breakdown. I was really bad off. My parents and manager pulled me aside and said, 'You need to get some help.' It was an intervention. I wanted freedom from the inner demons. I wanted to start my life over."
Lovato's interview with the magazine seemed aimed at helping young girls avoid similar problems. "If you are going through that dark period, go to your family and closest friends," Lovato urged her fans. "Don't put yourself in danger. It's very crucial that you get your feelings out—but don't ever inflict harm on you body because your body is so sacred. 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."
There was always speculation about what exactly Lovato was being treated for, and her comments all but confirm that she was suffering from some type of eating disorder. "Yes, there have been times when I definitely have been tempted to get rid of my dinner," she said. "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."
It was announced yesterday that Lovato would sit down with ABC's Robin Roberts, which will air in parts on both Good Morning America and 20/20 on Friday, April 22.
How do you feel about Demi Lovato's revelations? Are you shocked? Concerned?
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