Demi Lovato speaks about her self-harming issues

Its no secret that Demi Lovato has bravely overcome some very serious personal problems she was admitted to a treatment centre for emotional and physical issues in late 2010.

Now that the X Factor USA judge is much healthier shes gradually opening up about the difficulties she faced, including her problems with self-harming. We warn you now it doesnt make for pleasant reading,

There were times I felt so anxious, almost like I was crawling out of my skin that if I didn't do something physical to match the way I felt inside, I would explode, the 19-year-old tells the August issue of Self magazine.

I cut myself to take my mind off that. I just didnt care what happened. I had no fear.

Demi Lovato: You can choose to work toward happiness

Thankfully, Demi now takes positive steps towards maintaining her wellbeing, and to help others who may be in a similar situation she has explained how she keeps herself healthy,

You can choose to work toward 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 continues. I've spent the past two years getting over an eating disorder and issues like self-harming and bipolar disorder. I have to work on this stuff every day. I'm reminded of that whenever I eat or feel down.

Demi also reveals that shes ditched her phone so that she interacts more with people,

I haven't used my cell in three months! she admits. Subconsciou! sly, it was a crutch. When a room gets quiet, what do you do? Grab your phone! Now I can sit and have conversations with people.

What do you think about Demi's advice?