Leann Rimes is getting real about her mental health struggles, and she’s opening up about why seeking treatment was one of the most important things she’s ever done — and may have even saved her life.

As People reports, the 37-year-old singer was honoured on Wednesday at the Hope for Depression Research Foundation’s 14th Annual Luncheon Seminar, held at NYC’s Plaza Hotel.

Accepting the Hope Award for Depression Advocacy, Rimes recalled checking herself into treatment on Aug. 29, 2012 — the day after her 30th birthday, not long after the very public scandal that led she and now-husband Eddie Cibrian to leave their respective spouses for each other.

“Honestly, it was the best birthday gift I could have ever given myself,” a tearful Rimes told the audience, “because I don’t know if I would have made it to the next one.”

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In her speech, Rimes remembered “a very public shaming around my relationship with my now-husband of nine years,” adding that “all the running, and all of the hiding and all of the shame that lived inside was incredibly exhausting.”

The situation, she revealed, resulted in insomnia, a desire to never leave her bed and panic attacks so severe she struggled to breathe.

“I was so fortunate to have wonderful friends around me, and a wonderful husband, and a great support system,” she explained, adding that they “sat me down and suggested that I get help.”

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Rimes’ speech also touched on her teenage stepson Mason, who recently brought home a questionnaire he was given at school asking students to anonymously assess their metal states and, if necessary, what steps they can take to receive help. This, Rimes said, signals a positive step toward removing the stigma that surrounds mental health.

“I hope it is not only our youth but the whole world,” she added. “The most important words we may ever speak is ‘I need help.'”

If you or someone you know is in crisis and needs help, resources are available. In case of an emergency, please call 911 for immediate help.

The Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention, Depression Hurts and Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868 all offer ways of getting help if you, or someone you know, may be suffering from mental health issues.