The county’s top elected official will be discharged from a mental health facility this weekend and plans to return to work on Oct. 2 after two weeks of out patient therapy.
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Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo has shared some important news. She will be returning to work on October 2nd after extending her temporary leave of absence. During this time she has been receiving treatment for clinical depression. We’re glad to see Judge Hidalgo taking care of her well-being and we wish her all the best as she continues her important work for the community. Welcome back Judge Hidalgo!
“Hidalgo, a rising star among Texas Democrats, wanted to share some personal news with you. She was recently diagnosed with a condition in July and has been receiving treatment at an out-of-state facility. Rest assured, she has been taking the necessary steps towards recovery and is expected to return to work in early September. We wanted to keep you informed, as your support means a lot to her. Thank you for your understanding and well wishes.”
Hidalgo shared that she will be starting outpatient treatment after her discharge from the mental health facility on Saturday. Her doctors have advised her to take some time to readjust outside the hospital before returning to her usual routine.
“The concept of re-acclimatization, as explained by my doctors, is similar to not going from heart surgery straight to running a marathon. Just as they advise against immediately resuming my usual schedule, I need to take a gradual approach,” Hidalgo expressed in a friendly statement.
Hidalgo serves as Harris County’s top elected leader, guiding policy for the nation’s third-largest county.
Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis has been stepping in to lead the county’s Commissioners Court while our esteemed Commissioner Hidalgo is undergoing treatment. Rest assured, her dedicated chief of staff is diligently managing her office’s day-to-day operations during her absence. We appreciate your understanding and support during this time.
“Hidalgo wasted no time in responding to her former Republican opponent, Alexandra del Moral Mealer. Just a day after Mealer published an op-ed in the Houston Chronicle, urging Hidalgo to return or resign Hidalgo issued a statement. She’s determined to address the concerns raised. Stay tuned for updates!”
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“We’re just days away from a crucial Sept. 19 vote to increase taxes on Harris County residents, but County Judge Lina Hidalgo has yet to return to her office. We understand and support her personal decision to seek treatment for depression as we believe in prioritizing mental health. However, it’s important that we also show equal sympathy for the residents of Harris County who are dealing with skyrocketing inflation, alarming crime rates, and deteriorating infrastructure. Let’s work together to address these pressing issues and ensure a better future for our county.
“We’re just days away from a crucial Sept. 19 vote to increase taxes on Harris County residents, but County Judge Lina Hidalgo has yet to return to her office. We understand and support her personal decision to seek treatment for depression as we believe in prioritizing mental health. However, it’s important that we also show equal sympathy for the residents of Harris County who are dealing with skyrocketing inflation, alarming crime rates, and deteriorating infrastructure. Let’s work together to address these pressing issues and ensure a better future for our county.
Kathleen Thompson, executive director at Progress Texas, a liberal advocacy group, voiced her group’s support for Hidalgo.
While Judge Hidalgo moves from residential to outpatient care, progressives across the state are sending their best wishes Thompson informed The Texas Tribune. We all have someone we care about who has sought treatment for illness whether it’s short term or long term. Mental illness should be given the same care and support.
In 2018, Hidalgo was elected as county judge, surprising everyone by defeating Ed Emmett, a Republican who had garnered support from both sides. Since then, Hidalgo has gained national recognition for her leadership in tackling the COVID 19 crisis when it first emerged making her one of Texas’ most influential Democrats. Notably she has also become a prime target for Texas Republicans.
It’s unusual for elected officials to speak candidly about their mental health diagnoses, but recently it has become a little more common.
U.S. Sen. John Fetterman, a Pennsylvania Democrat, has spoken openly about dealing with depression after he sought care this year.
This led to messages of support by other elected officials who also revealed their own mental health struggles.
“Hey there! Did you know that major depressive disorder, also known as depression, is a widespread and significant medical condition? The American Psychiatric Association explains that it can cause a range of emotional and physical issues. Not only that, but it can also make it tough for individuals to perform well both at work and at home. Take charge of your mental health today!”
Feeling down? Having trouble concentrating Feeling low on energy? Maybe even having thoughts that life isn’t worth living? You’re not alone, my friend. Depression can hit anyone at any stage of life, and sometimes it can even be triggered by a medical condition. Studies have shown that genetics can play a role too.
To be diagnosed with major depressive disorder, symptoms must be present every day for at least two weeks. Depression can affect anyone, regardless of age or background. While the reasons behind the higher rates of depression in women compared to men remain unclear, it’s important to remember that anyone, including mature men like yourself, can experience depression.
Most Texans probably know someone who has depression. More people across the country have been diagnosed with the condition since the COVID-19 pandemic.
In February 2021, almost half of adults in Texas (43.4%) experienced symptoms of anxiety or depression revealing the significant toll the pandemic has taken on our mental well-being. Shockingly, over half of Americans reported that the various restrictions and consequences of the lockdowns have negatively, affected their mental health, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. As a mature man, it’s important to acknowledge and address the impact these challenges can have on our mental state. Remember you’re not alone, and seeking, support is a courageous step towards maintaining, your mental well-being.
Did you know that between 80% and 90% of people with depression eventually respond well to treatment? That’s great news! Common treatments for depression include antidepressants, talk therapy, and developing coping skills. These options can truly make a difference in your journey towards better mental health. Remember, you’re not alone in this. Reach out for support and explore these treatments to find what works best for you.
Need support during a mental health crisis, buddy? Remember, you’re never alone. Right here in Texas, help is just a call away. Our local mental health or behavioral health authorities have got your back 24/7. They offer a wide range of services, including crisis assessments, intervention services, and relapse prevention. You deserve the care and support to navigate through these tough times. Don’t hesitate to reach out and let them lend you a helping hand, my friend.
