Former NFL wide receiver and likely future Hall of Famer Steve Smith Sr. penned an essay on NFL.com titled "My personal battle with depression," where he detailed the mental health struggles during his playing career.

Smith referred to the suicides of fashion designer Kate Spade and celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain, noting their untimely deaths "weren't the first time we've lost icons in such a tragic manner -- and it won't be the last."

In the essay, Smith emphasized that it's strength, not a weakness, for somebody to acknowledge "personal struggles." Smith added he first sought treatment in 2002, when he visited a sports psychologist. Though Smith said he was able to block out the "noise and negative thoughts on the field," he struggled to do so outside of football.

Smith then discussed the accomplishments in his career, including 14,731 receiving yards and five Pro Bowl selections. However, Smith revealed he wasn't content with those accomplishments as he felt loneliness and despair.

Smith also referred to the Carolina Panthers' 14-3 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles in the 2003 NFC Championship Game, where they punched their first ticket to the Super Bowl. Despite the convincing victory, Smith revealed his frustration and disappointment with the team's poor play on offense, and that he "felt defeated".

And when Smith tore his Achilles during the 2015 season, he recalled being in the hospital and simply thinking about the passes he dropped throughout a storied career. However, Smith noted he feels free after hanging up the cleats.

Smith then finished the essay with this inspiring message for those that deal with self-doubts and depression:

"My advice to anyone suffering from mental health issues -- and specifically athletes who can relate -- is this: Ask for help. Stop trying to deal with these serious matters alone. You're not alone. Believe me."

The Panthers legend is the latest notable figure to open up about their struggles, as the world continues to become more aware of mental health issues. Though people like Smith seem to live a flawless life (money, fame, power, etc.) that simply doesn't buy you happiness.

Smith was one of the toughest players on the field, taking punishing hits from players twice his size for over a decade. But Smith further proved his toughness by detailing all the mental health problems that plagued him, and how he was able to overcome it.

Hopefully, those that read Smith's message that also suffer from depression will be inspired by his message. It's a sign of toughness when you can acknowledge what you're struggling with, and if you can open up about it and let others know they aren't alone.

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