Huge US star reveals she’s been in therapy since becoming child star after being trolled

MILEY CYRUS dropped a heart-felt ballad this week about waving goodbye to her former self.

But the Flowers hitmaker has revealed she is still having therapy for the criticism that she received as the 13-year-old star of Disney Channel’s Hannah Montana.

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The US singer, who released Used To Be Young on Friday, also admitted how the internet is “more toxic than drink and drugs”.

She said: “When I look back at the criticism I received as a child it has only been these last few years that I have understood just how wrong that was.

“I am a great believer in therapy to help heal painful memories and I am in a good place — but the reality is, it should never have happened.”

In 2013, Miley killed off the angelic persona of Hannah when she performed a risque routine in nude underwear with Blurred Lines hitmaker Robin Thicke at the VMAs.

She said: “The reality was I was creating attention for myself by being provocative — I was trying to distance myself from a character.

“I am not an attention-seeking person — but I had a point to prove that I was my own person and not a character I had been playing.

“I wouldn’t erase any part of my story or my transition — I always think an interesting life makes for interesting story- telling.”

In 2019, Miley, split from her actor husband Liam Hemsworth after less than a year of marriage, before dealing with the bitter divorce between her singer dad Billy Ray, and mum Tish last year.

Miley, who appears to have sided with her mum during the toxic split from Billy, said: “I was honest with my fans about struggling with depression and I know that has encouraged some of them to get help with the issues they may be facing.

“That gave me a real purpose, a reason to get up in the morning. When you are open and honest, that becomes a part of who you are — and organically that is going to be reflected in your songwriting.”

Internet warning

But Miley admitted that she has to limit her time online for the sake of her mental health.

On advice for up-and-coming stars, she said: “Don’t Google yourself — I am being totally serious, don’t Google yourself.

“People are so ready to talk about the dangers of drinks and drugs for young people in the industry — but there isn’t enough warning about the internet. It can be a truly toxic place.”

Emily ex’s new girl

THERE is fresh heartache for Emily Atack as I can reveal her ex-boyfriend Liam McGough has moved on, with a new girlfriend.

Earlier this month Emily was pictured celebrating his 38th birthday, sparking rumours they were back together.

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But tree surgeon and former Big Brother contestant Liam is now in a relationship with New York tattoo artist Sloane Coe.

The pair recently enjoyed a holiday in Cornwall and London.

A source said: “While Liam and Emily remain good friends, he has moved on and is really smitten with Sloane.”

After Emily and Liam’s seven-month relationship ended in October, she hinted at her heartache by posting an Instagram story with the caption: “You’ll meet people who make you feel worthwhile again, and little pieces of your soul will finally come back.”

She has also been living it up, in Nice with a group of pals. Definitely the best way to get over your ex.

BEST BY MA, HAZ

HARRY STYLES recently confirmed his romance with model and actress Taylor Russell by putting on a cosy display at her new theatre show.

And it seems his latest love interest has also won the seal of approval from his mother, Anne Twist.

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I can reveal she enjoyed a date night with her boyfriend Darren at the National Theatre in London – which happens to be where Canadian Taylor is starring in play The Effect.

A source said: “Harry is in awe of Taylor and her incredible work as an actress. He has been spending time in London with her, and it means the world to him that his mum is a fan of hers too.”

Maybe Hazza will tread the boards soon.

BECKS SHOWS OFF HIS DECKS

DAVID BECKHAM was in full holiday mode as he kicked back on deck while cruising along the Adriatic coast.

The football legend showed off his inked physique during his holiday with wife Victoria, daughter Harper and son Cruz.

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David also packed on the PDA with his former Spice Girl wife Victoria as they shared a lingering kiss in front of a beautiful sunset.

The former England captain appeared to be in his element as he grinned while having fun on a paddleboard before watching his son jump off the boat.

If there was ever an ultimate Wish You Were Here postcard, this would be it.

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IN their long-awaited comeback The Strokes showed the fans what they were missing, on stage at London’s All Points East festival.

Singer Julian Casablancas cut an enigmatic figure in a leather waistcoat, fingerless glove and aviators, as he led the band through their rich back catalogue.

Sometimes, Last Nite and Hard To Explain still sounded timeless, while the angular grooves of The Adults Are Talking and Welcome To Japan proved as irresistible as ever.

Declaring London their “second home”, the group unleashed mayhem with the catchy fan favourite Reptilia.

And more than 90 minutes after first strolling on stage, The Strokes departed, having proved they are still in a league of their own.

CAUGHT LIVE: The Strokes, All Points East

★★★★☆