Demi Lovato Mental Illness: Singer Says She and Father Had Issues, Opens Scholarship (VIDEO)
Speaking for the first time in public after her father's death last week, Demi Lovato announced that both her and her father had struggled with mental illness. The actress now has plans to open a program to help those who also struggle with the disease.
In one of her first interviews since losing her father last week, the 20-year-old "X-Factor" judge revealed that her late father, who was also battling cancer, struggled with mental illness. Speaking to Robin Roberts on "Good Morning America," Lovato brought up the time she had spent at rehab two years ago, stating the she too also struggled with the illness and that it gave her "mental and physical" problems.
Estranged for more than six years prior to his death, Lovato noted that the illness her father suffered from often prevented him from functioning in society. However, despite their difficult relationship, Lovato also said that she had deep respect and affection for her father.
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"My father and I didn't have the most ideal relationship," she told Roberts. "But, at the end of the day, he's still my dad and I grew up with him and he was a wonderful person."
To honor her father's memory, Lovato announced that she would now be introducing "The Lovato Treatment Scholarship." The program will help those who struggle with mental illnesses to better afford treatment.
"I'm a firm believer that everything happens for a reason," Lovato said adding that she had "dealt" with her illness. She gave credit to her fans for helping her out of difficult times.
"They have stood by me through everything that I've been through in my life ... I've had incredible support from them and they can help me get through anything," she said.
The singer also debuted her newest single Thursday, "Made in the USA."
