#DemiLovato on support for those w/ mental illness: “This is not about politics. It’s simply the right thing to do” https://t.co/uuwOSHmRoi
— CNN (@CNN) July 25, 2016
Confident in her choice for the next POTUS. Demi Lovato took the stage at the Democratic National Convention on Monday, July 25, to speak out about mental illness and endorse Hillary Clinton before bursting into her hit song “Confident.”
“Like millions of Americans, I’m living with mental illness — but I’m lucky. I had the resources and support to get treatment at a top facility,” the 23-year-old told the Philadelphia crowd. “Unfortunately, too many Americans from all walks of life don’t get help, either because they fear the stigma or cannot afford treatment. Untreated mental illness can lead to devastating consequences, including suicide, substance abuse and long-term medical issues.”
“We can do better. Every one of us can make a difference,” she proclaimed. “By getting educated on this epidemic and its frightening statistics and by breaking the stigma. I urge every politician to support laws that will provide access to better health care and support for everyone. This is not about politics. It’s simply the right thing to do.”
The “Body Say” singer explained that she’s doing a small part by having staff from the treatment center that helped her through her recovery come along on tour to provide services to those who need support.
“I stand here today as proof you can live a normal and empowered life with mental illness. 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,” she said to overwhelming cheers. “Let’s make her the next president of the United States of America.”
The former Disney star seamlessly segued right into “Confident,” and stunned in a pink bodycon dress covered in sequins. Two backup dancers joined her on stage for the rousing performance, which took place before high-profile speakers, including Michelle Obama and Bernie Sanders, address the crowd later Monday evening.
Lovato has previously been open about dealing with bipolar disorder and battling an eating disorder and drug addiction. She’s now been sober and in recovery for more than four years.
“I was dealing with bipolar depression and didn’t know what was wrong with me,” she told HuffPost Live in May 2015. “Little did I know, there was a chemical imbalance in my brain. Because I didn’t tell people what I need, I ended up self-medicating and coping with very unhealthy behaviors.”
