Hello, my name is Rocco Bauer, also known as RoccoTheMoney. I’m writing this to raise awareness about mental health and to openly share my struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts. My goal is to let others know they are not alone and to encourage those in need to seek help. I have been battling depression for nearly SIX years. On September 13, 2024, I reached a breaking point and decided to visit a mental health hospital and crisis center. The next day, on September 14, 2024, I was officially diagnosed with depression. For years, I refused to seek help because I was embarrassed. I kept my thoughts, feelings, and emotions bottled up, which only worsened my mental health. My silence led me to cry out for help in destructive ways, and I often made situations more difficult than they needed to be because I wasn’t ready to admit I was struggling. It has been a long road to recovery, and I’m still working through it. There were moments when I considered ending my life, but the one thing that kept me going was hope. During my darkest times, I appeared to be thriving in my social media career, academics, and other areas of life. However, I wasn’t truly happy. I realized that I was the biggest obstacle in my own recovery, and I needed to confront the thoughts that weren’t true. For years, I tried to mask my depression with anger, but it never worked. I regret not asking for help sooner, but I’ve learned that it’s okay to reach out for support. Opening up to loved ones or professionals is not a sign of weakness—it’s an act of courage. If you’re struggling, please know that you’re not alone. Help is available. You can call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988, a free and confidential service available 24/7 to anyone in need. If you are Deaf or Hard of Hearing, you can access a 988 Lifeline counselor 24/7 via the 988 Videophone, online chat, or by texting any message to 988 to start a conversation. Support is always available. I hope my story reminds you that it’s okay to seek help and to talk about how you feel. You are not alone, and reaching out is one of the bravest things you can do.