HARRIS COUNTY, Texas – Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo revealed that she will be taking a leave of absence as she receives treatment for clinical depression.
According to a statement posted on The Office of Judge Lina Hidalgo’s Twitter/X, she checked herself into an out-of-state facility in July to receive inpatient treatment.
Clinical depression is a condition that’s on the rise according to Dr. Lokesh Shahani, a psychiatrist with UTHealth Houston.
“I think what we’ve seen is after the COVID-19 pandemic, there was approximately a 30% rise in cases of depression, which, you know, which means a lot because we are dealing with a major mental health crisis in our society. But the good thing, or the silver lining with it is most people are coming out and are open about it,” said Shahani.
He says depression goes beyond just feeling said, and there are signs that you shouldn’t ignore.
“You know, feeling like you’re not able to concentrate at work or at home, aren’t able to sleep or sleeping too much, not able to eat or eating too much, sometimes feeling hopeless and at times having wishes that you were dead or having suicidal thoughts,” said Shahani.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms Dr. Shahani says you should seek help. You can reach out to the suicide and crisis lifeline. Just call or text 988 on any phone.
Judge Hidalgo announced today that, based on the advice of her doctors, she will be on leave from the office to seek inpatient care for clinical depression. See below for a letter from Judge Hidalgo to the people of Harris County: pic.twitter.com/UI5nN4wcNG
— Office of Judge Lina Hidalgo (@HarrisCoJudge) August 7, 2023
Following her announcement, several of her colleagues, elected officials and community leaders responded to her decision.
Commissioner Rodney Ellis said that Hidalgo informed him a few weeks ago, on the day she checked into the facility, about what her doctors had diagnosed her with, and their recommendations going forward.
“This is one of those times when I think that all of us in politics, from time to time, have to rise above petty, mean-spirit politics,” Ellis stated.
He went on to say, “I see this as a teachable moment. It’s a chance where all of us ought to Google trusted sources and learn a lot about mental health issues. Particularly coming out of a pandemic. All of us oughta do a bit more to reach out and see if we can help someone, or help ourselves to know more about how mental health as well.”
Where to turn: Use these mental health resources to help yourself — or someone else
Mayor Sylvester Turner released the following statement, “As difficult as this may be, Judge Lina Hidalgo is not alone in facing this challenge. A 2023 report showed that over 30% of adults meet the criteria for having depression and/or anxiety. Thankfully, she is in the care of doctors who recognize that this is treatable and is committed to getting better.” “All of us know someone who suffers from depression. The good news is that now more than ever, resources are available for those who need help. My hope is that this experience can serve as a teachable moment and encourage others who need support to seek it. We cannot let stigma stand in the way of treatment. Our thoughts and prayers are with Judge Hidalgo.”
MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES |
Preventing suicide in Houston: These are resources everyone needs to know
What to expect when calling a suicide prevention hotline
New book ‘You Are Not Alone’ a mental illness resource
Galveston County to open new mental health crisis center
SEE ALSO: Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo to take personal leave of absence, office announces
Following ‘F-bomb’ drop, Judge Hidalgo denies commissioner’s request to apologize
Judge Hidalgo releases data showing increase in gun violence among youth in Harris County