Demi Lovato has talked about having a very difficult childhood, and apparently it started well before she broke into show business.
The Heart Attack singer recently opened up and admitted she was forced to sign a suicide contract when she was just seven years-old, which is around the same time she got her first gig singing the theme song on Barney & Friends.
According to Demi, she was happy to be on television, but she wasn’t in the greatest place mentally:
“At the time, I was just so grateful to be on TV, but I was also really struggling.”
Although she was in a dark place in her early acting career, she says her suicidal thoughts began well before she started working on Barney:
“Looking back, there was a connection, probably between any kid who’s ever sang that song to Barney, a little place in a child’s heart, a void, that could be filled. And maybe Barney fills it. Even before Barney, I was suicidal. I was 7.”
Being in the spotlight at such a young age has been difficult to handle for some rising stars, but Demi says her career may have actually helped her get through a difficult time:
“I guess subliminally, I did have a relationship with this figure that was saving my life in a way. I’ve talked about being bullied and the years of being a teenager, but I went through things when I was younger that I’ve never talked about that probably caused me to turn out the way I ended up turning out.”
It’s absolutely heartbreaking to hear she had to battle with so many demons at such a young age. But not only did Demi get through it, she’s absolutely flourishing!
We’re so happy to see she’s in a better place right now, and hopefully she can be a role model for children who are also struggling at a young age.
P.S. If you’re suffering from suicidal thoughts, please don’t hesitate to call 1-800-273-8255. They’ll help you get through a difficult time and are the perfect outlet to discuss whatever it is you’re going through. You’re not alone!
[Image via WENN.]