Last week, Scott Mescudi, better known as Kid Cudi, checked himself into rehab and it was a shock to many. Mescudi posted an emotionally raw message on his Facebook explaining his battles with depression, and suicidal thoughts. This was eye opening to me because how often do we see this? In the media there are many instances of celebrities checking into rehab for a number of issues; instances of substance abuse seem to be the ones most publicized. Personally, seeing Lindsey Lohan go to rehab didn't hit a nerve, but Scott Mescudi's honesty about his inner struggles really mattered in my eyes.

Mescudi posted the following message to the public and what I read was astonishing. Here we are in a society, where we all know that mental illness exists, yet it still hasn't been understood. In his status, Scott Mescudi said he was ashamed.

Its been difficult for me to find the words to what Im about to share with you because I feel ashamed. Ashamed to be a leader and hero to so many while admitting I've been living a lie. It took me a while to get to this place of commitment, but it is something I have to do for myself, my family, my best friend/daughter and all of you, my fans. 
Yesterday I checked myself into rehab for depression and suicidal urges. 
I am not at peace. I haven't been since you've known me.

As I read this, I couldn't help but think about how many other people are struggling so hard yet are ashamed, or too afraid to let someone know that there is a battle they cannot fight alone.

Kid Cudi was ashamed he was ‘living a lie’ because he hadn’t shared about his fight. With all the knowledge of mental illness, specifically depression and anxiety, people should be able to speak freely about their story. It is a huge weight lifted off your shoulders when you can let a friend know why you haven’t been motivated for weeks, or why you have no appetite for days.

I know this from personal experience. I have struggled with depression for longer than I can remember, but began to acknowledge and live with my mental illness about 5 years ago. The point in time where I could talk to my dad, or my best friend about what was going on in my head was like a breath of fresh air. Being in your own head and putting on a smile everyday, pretending like there is no issue is the biggest internal battle I have ever experienced. I am now able to share my story, without feeling like I am lying about who I am; I hope Scott Mescudi will gain the same insight from his experience.

I encourage those who feel like they are in it all alone, to open up. It may be easier said than done, but in the end the love, support and acceptance you receive will get you through it.

If you or somebody you know is thinking about self- harm or attempting suicide, tell someone who can help right away.

• Call your doctor’s office.
• Call 911 for emergency services.
• Go to the nearest hospital emergency room.
• Call the toll-free, 24-hour hotline for National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8225) to be connected to a trained counselor at a suicide crisis center nearest you.

Ask a family member or friend to help you make these calls, and take you to the hospital.