Over the years, Demi Lovato has been open about her battle with depression, substance abuse problems, and eating disorders. And on Wednesday, the 24-year-old took to Instagram to thank her friends and fans for all their support as she celebrated being sober for five years. Sharing a picture of an app with the milestone marked across it, the singer posted an inspirational message to reflect on her tough journey. She wrote: "So grateful. It's been quite the journey. So many ups and downs. So many times I wanted to relapse but sat on my hands and begged God to relieve the obsession."
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She added: "I'm so proud of myself but I couldn't have done it without my higher power (God), my family, friends, and everyone else who supported me. Feeling humbled and joyful today. Thank you guys for sticking by my side and believing in me." In 2012, the then-19-year-old went to rehab to overcome her issues, and she has since documented her experience with her followers. In May last year, Demi revealed she hit rock bottom when she was unable to "go an hour without using cocaine".
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"Prior to getting sober, I was one of those people who was like, I don't give a [expletive], whatever," she told Refinery29. "And I used that as an excuse to do whatever I wanted." Demi, who's currently in a relationship with MMA athlete Guilherme Vasconcelos, confessed she started to receive treatment in 2010, but it wasn't until two years later that she realised she had to quit the Hollywood scene. "I had to learn the hard way that I can't do parties anymore," she continued. "Some people can go out... but that's not the case for me."
© Photo: Getty ImagesDemi Lovato has celebrated five years of sobriety
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Following her stint in rehab, Demi admitted there were some days she found really challenging. "Since I went to treatment, there have been days when it's felt really easy, and I've felt great about where I am. But then I have moments when it's not. That's life," she told Seventeen in 2014. "You can't just take your mind and your body into the shop and get it fixed. It doesn't come out repaired. It's not like a car. It takes time - pace yourself. Every day is a new opportunity to change your life and be who you want to be."
