Demi Lovato says she's 'devastated' following the death of her friend: 'Addiction is no joke'

Singer urges fans to reach out for help

Sarah Young
Thursday 10 October 2019 08:51 BST
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Demi Lovato is mourning the death of a close friend who struggled with addiction.

On Wednesday, the “Sober” singer revealed on her Instagram Stories that her friend Thomas had passed away on Tuesday night, following a battle with addiction.

“Devastated. Please hold your loved ones tight. Tell them they are special and that you love them,” she wrote alongside a black-and-white photo of Thomas.

“Make sure they know it. RIP to my boo @sirtruss.”

Following the tribute, Lovato – who has battled addiction herself – shared a second post in which she urged her followers to get help if they or someone they know is currently struggling with substance abuse.

“Addiction is NO joke,” she wrote alongside another photo of her friend.

“Heaven gained this beautiful angel last night because of that terrible disease. I’m crushed and will always miss you @sirtruss.

Demi Lovato paid tribute to her friend, Thomas, on Instagram Stories (Instagram: ddlovato)

“If you or someone you know is struggling please know it’s okay to ask for help.”

The former Disney star has previously spoken about her own personal struggles with addiction, mental illness and disordered eating.

In 2018, Lovato discussed her ongoing battle with substance abuse for the first time in a statement on social media.

The singer urged fans to ask for help if they are struggling (Instagram: ddlovato)

“I have always been transparent about my journey with addiction,” Lovato wrote on Instagram.

“What I’ve learned is that this illness is not something that disappears or fades with time. It is something I must continue to overcome and have not done yet.”

She added: “I want to thank God for keeping me alive and well.

“I now need time to heal and focus on my sobriety and road to recovery. The love you have all shown me will never be forgotten and I look forward to the day where I can say I came out on the other side. I will keep fighting.”

You contact national alcohol helpline Drinkline for free on 0300 123 1110. The helpline is open from 9am until 8pm on weekdays, and from 11am to 4pm at weekends.

If you need guidance on drug addiction, you can call charity Frank on 0300 123 6600. The helpline is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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