Demi Lovato breaks silence for the first time since drug overdose

Demi Lovato has spoken out for the first time since she was hospitalised after an apparent overdose.

The 25-year-old singer was rushed to hospital after she was found unconscious at her home in Los Angeles, California, on July 24.

Lovato has posted a message on Instagram to detail her continued battle with addiction.

• READ MORE: Demi Lovato set to leave hospital, enter rehab after drug overdose that 'nearly killed her'

"I have always been transparent about my journey with addiction," she wrote.

"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."

The singer thanked her fans for their love and support.

"Your positive thoughts and prayers have helped me navigate through this difficult time."

• READ MORE: Demi Lovato reportedly suffering from 'complications' after alleged drug overdose

She also thanked her family, team and the staff at Cedars-Sinai who have by her side the whole time.

"Without them, I wouldn't be here writing this letter to all of you," she wrote.

"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."

• READ MORE: Demi Lovato's ex Wilmer Valderrama 'hasn't left her side' after drug overdose 

Lovato indicated in a new song released last month that she had relapsed after six years of sobriety.

On the song Sober, she sings the lyrics: "Mumma, I'm so sorry I'm not sober anymore/And daddy please forgive me for the drinks spilled on the floor."

This article was originally published on NZ Herald and is reproduced here with permission.