It’s a bold bid to come out with a ballad at the height of summer, especially one as wrenching as Demi Lovato‘s new single, “Skyscraper.”

Of course, the former Disney princess returns to the music scene with some hard-earned PR, having undergone treatment for self-harm, depression, and bulimia. Quite the trio of troubles for an 18-year-old, but “Skyscraper” could defy such gravity and enjoy a quick ascent, as the world rarely turns away from a good comeback story. (No less than Kelly Clarkson digs the tune, too).

Directed by Mark Pellington (Pearl Jam, U2), the music video for isn’t a literal retelling of the rocky road Lovato’s traveled (thank goodness), but doesn’t shy away from symbolism or a cathartic shed of tears, either, focusing on the singer in a desolate desertscape.

“Skyscraper” was produced by Toby Gad (Beyoncé’s “If I Were A Boy,” Selena Gomez & The Scene’s “A Year Without Rain”), who co-wrote it with Kerli and Lindy Robbins. Though “Skyscraper” reads as a perfect fit for Lovato’s recent troubles, the song was originally intended for Kerli’s next album.

Purchase Demi Lovato – “Skyscraper” via iTunes.