(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Paula Abdul likes talking to the X Factor contestants about her "struggles".

The singer-and-choreographer is a judge on the US TV talent show alongside Simon Cowell, Nicole Scherzinger and L.A. Reid.

Paula takes her role as a mentor to her acts very seriously.

As well as coaching her group of singers on vocals and choreography, Paula is also looking after their health too.

"I talk to them about my struggles," she explained in an interview with Life & Style Magazine. "I'm living proof you can learn to accept and love everything about yourself that is unique and makes you stand out. It's not about comparing yourself to everyone else."

Paula has suffered from bulimia in the past. She fought the disease and has sat on the board of the National Eating Disorders Association for 16 years.

The star is passionate about educating new acts who enter the pressure of the public eye.

She talks to her acts to build up their confidence and ensure they don't become unwell.

"We're not striving for perfection," Paula stressed. "We're striving for excellence. We're striving for healthy bodies."

However, Paula also has plenty of ideas to get her acts noticed. The star is also coaching them to stand out.

"It's about teaching them to be bold, daring and unique," she enthused. (C) Cover Media