Shes already been vocal about her own dark times, and now pop star Demi Lovato wants to shine a ligh...

1. Demi Lovato helps raise awareness about mental illness in
new PSA - Philadelphia Pop Culture
Shes already been vocal about her own dark times, and now pop star Demi Lovato wants to shine a
light on mental illness in an effort to help others. The former X Factor judge has partnered with "The
Mental Health Listening & Engagement Tour" to record a public service announcement to help
spread awareness about bipolar treatments for bipolar depression, according to a report on Friday
from E! News.
Photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images

2. In the video, the 21-year-old star announces:
I'm a recording artist, author, songwriter and actress. I'm also living with bipolar disorder. I've seen
some dark times, especially with the depressive phase of the illness. Bipolar depression really got my
life off track, but today I'm proud to say I'm living proof that someone can live, love and be well with
bipolar disorder when they get the education, support and treatment they need."
Lovato finishes her inspiring message with important information on services and helpful websites
for those struggling or seeking treatment.
The former Disney Channel star made headlines in recent years for her rehab stint and her struggles
with both bulimia, cutting, and bipolar disorder, and earlier this summer she told Cosmopolitan for
Latinas that she didnt have a positive role model to look up to when she was growing up.
In a 2012 interview with Good Morning America, the singer revealed that she decided to talk openly
about her eating disorder and depression so she could be a proper role model to her younger fans.
Thats what being a role model is about, she said in the interview. Its not about being perfect. Its
about speaking about your issues and inspiring others to get help.
And in a 2011 interview with ABC News, Lovato revealed she was stunned to learn of her bipolar
disorder diagnosis.
I had no idea that I was even bipolar until I went into treatment," the former Disney star revealed.
The singer also said that her eating disorder was triggered by constantly teased about her weight as
a kid, and she revealed that she began cutting herself at age 11. Her struggles spiraled out of
control in 2010 when she hit one of her backup dancers during a jealous fit while on the Camp Rock
2 tour. It was after that incident that the singers family urged her to get treatment.
For the first time in my life, I started to feel," Lovato told 20/20 host Robin Roberts, before adding,
The real reason why I'm sitting down with you is to open up the eyes of so many young girls, that it
doesn't have to be this way."