When news broke that Paris Jackson was in the hospital following a suicide attempt, many fans and celebrities rushed to offer their encouragement for the 15-year-old.
Among the supporters was Demi Lovato, who has publicly battled depression and self-harm habits.
“Dear Paris Jackson, don’t let bullies to let you down,” Demi reportedly tweeted, although the message is no longer on her account. “We believe in you!! Stay strong, Please … You’re beautiful and we love you. #Praying.”
Demi’s tweet was made all the more poignant by her recent interview with Rolling Stone. In the revealing article, the former child star admitted her struggles with depression and self-doubt began at a young age.
“The principal called my parents and made me sign this suicide contract saying that I would not kill myself,” Demi said of an incident that occurred when she was just seven years old. “They weren’t expecting that so young.”
^Demi was just 7-year-old when she first appeared on Barney & Friends
The childhood agreement may have prevented Demi was making an irreparable mistake, it didn’t save her from depression. In 2010, following years of self-harm and struggles with bulimia, Demi entered a no-frills rehab facility.
“Celebrities do have luxurious options, but my parents were like, ‘No, you’re going to learn something.'”
While in treatment, Demi addressed the behavioral manifestations of her emotional issues. She also learned she has bipolar disorder. Since that diagnosis, she has been better able to handle her moods and reactions.
Although Demi undeniably benefited from the rehabilitation, she admitted to being anxious about the public response.
‘You have two choices. We can either just shut it down and not talk about it, or you can tell people what’s up.’ There was no hesitation, really. I opened up that gate.”
In the time since then, Demi has landed a spot on the X Factor panel, released a platinum album and served as a role model to thousand of young adults — a group that will hopefully grow to include Paris Jackson.
