X Factor finalist James Arthur has admitted to suffering from depression in the past.

The 24-year-old made the revelation in an interview with Look, and said that he had suffered from suicidal thoughts and become dependent on alcohol as a result.

Arthur said: "This time last year was the darkest point in my life. I wanted to be making music and I wasn't, so I cut myself off from everyone and I was in a bad place.

"I'd stay in my bedsit on my own or get obliterated [on drink] to try to forget about it. I felt ready to give up on life. I didn't want to jump off a building, but who knows how bad it could have got?"

However, the singer credits the reality show with giving him renewed faith in life, adding: "I've got my confidence back. My attitude's been rejuvenated.

"The X Factor saved me. It's helped me beat my demons, and I know I'll never let that happen again."

James Arthur will battle it out with Jahmene Douglas and Christopher Maloney to be crowned the winner of The X Factor 2012 this weekend.

Watch James Arthur perform Marvin Gaye's 'Let's Get It On' on The X Factor below: