Demi Lovato: Messages of support pour in after young star hospitalised for reported drug overdose

Messages of support have poured in - from both celebrities and ordinary fans - after it was reported Demi Lovato had been taken to hospital following a possible heroin overdose.

The 25-year-old, who had been courageous in her willingness to speak out about her challenges with celebrity, mental health and drugs, was taken to hospital in Los Angeles, the celebrity website TMZ reported.

The website said emergency services were called to her home in the Hollywood Hills. The Los Angeles Police Department told The Independent an emergency call was put out for a 25-year-old female in the Hollywood Hills at 11.39am.

As news of the one-time child star’s hospitalisation spread, messages poured in on social media for the young woman whose albums include Don't Forget, Here We Go Again and Unbroken.

Arina Grande said simply: “i love u @ddlovato."

Lily Allen, a singer who has had her own struggles with alcohol and drugs, said: “Poor beautiful spirit @ddlovato I hope she’s ok, and that she makes a full recovery soon.”

Ellen DeGeneres said it “broke her heart” that the singer was going through such problems. “She is a light in this world, and I am sending my love to her and her family,” she added.

The country singer Brad Paisley said Lovato was one of the “kindest, most talented people I’ve ever met”.

He added: “Praying for her right now, addiction is a terrifying disease. There is no one more honest or brave than this woman.”

Missy Elliott wrote: “Sending Prayers for Demi Lovato you just never know what people are going through so please have compassion & no jokes.” but let’s be encouraging so she will get the help she needs."

Yet while there was no shortage of affection from people who moved in Lovato’s world, most was from her fans.

One fan, Ani, wrote: “Dear Demi: your mental health - its the most important thing that you can give us, you're strong, beautiful and a really kind person. You can be more stronger than this honey, you can with everything, I know you can with everything.”

Another, Katie-Leigh, wrote: “Sending love and strength and encouragement to you! You can do this Demi, we love you! In times like this you haven’t just got your family and friends you have your fans to lean on too! We love you Demi and we pray for you to get through this.”

A fan called Ricardo wrote: “You are a light and i’m so saddened by the news. i hope you’re okay and that you’ll know we’re all behind you.”

Reuters said representatives for Lovato did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Lovato shot to fame on Disney Channel shows Camp Rock and Sonny with a Chance 10 years ago, and went on to forge a pop career with hits like Skyscraper and Sorry Not Sorry.

In her June song Sober, she sings “Momma, I'm so sorry, I'm not sober anymore.”

In an appearance at the 2016 Democratic National Convention, she spoke about her problems.

“Like millions of Americans, I am living with mental illness, but I'm lucky,” she said.

“I had the resources and support to get treatment at a top facility. Unfortunately, too many Americans from all walks of life don't get help, either because they fear the stigma or cannot afford treatment.”

If you or anyone you know is suffering from substance abuse problems, help is available:

UK: NHS drug addiction helpline - 0300 123 6600

US: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration - 1-800-662-HELP