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Demi Lovato: Rebab Was 'Darkest Time' for Disney Star

By Adam Ramirez on March 07, 2011 | Last updated on March 21, 2019

Disney starlet Demi Lovato's rehab stint was the "darkest time" of her young life, the 18-year-old said in a video to her fans over the weekend.

Demi Lovato's rehab treatment, a two-month treatment which ended in late January, was for "emotional and physical issues," including eating disorders and self mutilation, Fox News reports.

"I wanted to send you guys a message because I know that you've seen me out and about and I wanted to let you know that I am back and am home," Lovato began in the short video, which was recorded in her house, the New York Daily News reports. "But I wouldn't be here today if it wasn't for the support you guys have given me along the way."

Times were rough for Lovato before rehab, as the young diva allegedly punched dancer Alex Welch in the face on board a private jet in October 2010 while touring with the Jonas Brothers.

The incident gave Welch a black eye. The dancer was said to be suffering "lasting emotional damage" in addition to having to consult with a cosmetic surgeon. It is rumored that the scuffle began after Lovato thought Welch was telling tour management about her drinking and other bad-girl behavior.

There has been no word from Alex Welch as to whether she pursued legal action over the alleged assault. It's possible Demi Lovato, rehab now behind her, might have tried to settle with Welch, although there have been no official reports.

Diva or not, at times it can be best to avoid involving the courts and pursue an out of court settlement. It can be more cost effective and less of a drawn-out hassle.

As for Demi Lovato, the Disney star says she is back home and "excited to get back to work," the Daily News reports.

Exactly what kind of work the teenager will pursue now is unclear. Will she return to her Disney Channel series "Sonny With a Chance?" The cable network announced back in November, 2010 that it was going to rework the show and focus on other characters and guest stars. That production schedule resumed in January, Billboard reports.

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