Before performing at the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia Monday, singer Demi Lovato spoke to the crowd about mental illness. She started her speech by confirming that she has suffered from mental illness, like millions of other Americans.
But I am lucky. I had the resources and support to get treatment at a top facility. Unfortunately, too many Americans from all walks of life don’t get help, whether they fear the stigma or cannot afford treatment.
Lovato has been open in the past about her struggles with bipolar disorder, as well as eating disorders and substance abuse issues. In 2011, the now-22-year-old entered rehab, where, according to Women’s Health Magazine, she was diagnosed with bipolar disorder after years of struggling with bulimia, cutting, and drug addiction.
Ever since then she’s been an ardent mental health advocate. A spokesperson for a campaign called Be Vocal: Speak Up for Mental Health, Lovato told Women’s Health:
It’s a passion of mine—mental health advocacy—and I’ve decided to partner up with Be Vocal because it’s something that’s really powerful when it comes to not only informing people about what mental illness is, but also what you can do to get help.
Lovato is a Hillary Clinton supporter and in her speech at the DNC said, “I’m proud to support a presidential candidate who will fight to ensure all people living with mental-health conditions get the care they need to lead fulfilling lives. That candidate is Hillary Clinton.”
We can do better. Every one of us can make a difference by getting educated on this epidemic and its frightening statistics and by breaking the stigma.
She finished her speech with a simple request, “let’s make her the next President of the United States of America.”
