Demi Lovato's Inspiring Story

Demi Lovato has come a long way. After going to rehab for an eating disorder and being diagnosed with bipolar disorder, today, the X Factor judge is healthy, strong and learning about herself every day.

Demi has found a great support system in new friends that “have more interests than wanting to go to clubs and get wasted.”

Working out is also very important to Demi — not to lose weight, but to stay healthy and in shape. “I’ll run a few miles or bike from Santa Monica to Marina del Rey. I also love boxing or, when I’m sore, yoga. Sometimes I’ll do full-out meditations, where I chant with my instructor. It helps me connect to how I’m feeling.”

“I’ve spent the past two years getting over an eating disorder and issues like self-harming and bipolar disorder. Unlike a person who doesn’t have these problems, I have to work on this stuff every day. I’m reminded of that whenever I eat or feel down.”

Demi is so strong – every single day she struggles, but is working hard to become more confident. ”Mean comments don’t affect me the same way [the used to] because I’m more confident. If I read something where someone calls me a b*tch, I know I’m not, so I laugh at it.”

Demi continues to speak out for young girls who struggle with their image. “I want girls to know that it’s OK when they grow up and their body changes. I want them to be aware that certain things they might do to lose weight can be dangerous — life-threatening, even.”

It definitely takes effort, but Demi is willing to put in the time to help herself and others. ”You can choose to work towards happiness or not. I used to expect it to come to me, but it takes more than seeing a therapist once a week. I make time for myself and meditate.”

She is truly an inspiration to all teenagers and adults out there.