HARRIS COUNTY, Texas — On Monday, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo announced that she's taking a leave of absence in order to be treated for clinical depression, according to her office.
"I am one of the over 21 million American adults that is suffering from clinical depression," she said in a statement.
Hidalgo, 32, has been in her position since winning the 2018 election over incumbent Ed Emmett. She then retained her seat by winning the 2022 election over Alexandra del Moral Mealer.
"My experience has been difficult, but I am taking it as an opportunity to be open about my own struggle, my own challenges, and to encourage others, who need help, to seek treatment," Hidalgo said in a statement.
In a statement released on X, formerly known as Twitter, she said she was diagnosed with clinical depression last month. In late July, she said she checked herself into an out-of-state facility for inpatient treatment.
"Based on my doctor's recommendation, I checked myself into an out-of-state facility to receive inpatient treatment in late July," the statement said.
Hidalgo said she hopes to resume her normal schedule in September.
While she's gone, Harris County Precinct 1 Commissioner Rodney Ellis will preside over Commissioners Court. She also said her chief of staff will run the day-to-day business at her office while she's away.
Ellis wouldn't say exactly where Hidalgo was being treated, due to privacy concerns, but he said he believed she would be gone for about two weeks. He said it's important for her to get treatment to confront the issue swiftly.
"I want to commend her for making the decision to get the help that she needs and I want to commend her for going public with it -- a lot of people would not," Ellis said.
Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner also released a statement about Hidalgo's announcement. He said she's not alone in the fight against depression.
"Thankfully, she is in the care of doctors who recognize that this is treatable and is committed to getting better," Turner's statement said.
Hidalgo's full statement:
"I am writing to share with you that I am one of the over 21 million American adults that is suffering from clinical depression. For some time, I have been coping with this challenge, and it was undiagnosed until last month. Based on my doctor's recommendation, I checked myself into an out of state facility to receive inpatient treatment in late July. It is important for me personally and professionally to confront this issue swiftly, so I will be taking temporary leave from the office while I am receiving treatment. My medical care team and I are hopeful that I will be able to resume my normal schedule by early September. I remain passionate about Harris County and its people and look forward to returning at full strength.
"From the beginning of my tenure as County Judge, I have stressed the importance of mental health services. Depression and other mental health illnesses are part of the human condition, and mental health illnesses should be treated just like any other health condition. I feel so strongly that we should be open and forthright about mental health issues, which historically have been tarred with stigma that have prevented people from seeking the treatment they need.
"My experience has been difficult, but I am taking it as an opportunity to be open about my own struggle, my own challenges, and to encourage others, who need help, to seek treatment. All of us know someone -- a friend, a coworker, or a family member -- who suffers from depression. I encourage every person that is struggling with mental health challenges to look for support in your community, your loved ones, and your doctor. If you need help finding support in Harris County, the Department of Public Health maintains a list of mental health resources that residents can find, or you can call 988. Remember to prioritize your own health and that you are not alone.
"I will remain available in the event of an emergency, and the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management remains fully engaged and prepared to respond to any potential incident or disaster during this time, and I will continue to remain available to staff. Since Commissioners Court rules indicate that the senior (longest standing) member of the court shall preside in my absence, Commissioner Rodney Ellis has graciously agreed to preside over Commissioners Court in my absence. Additionally, my chief of staff will continue to manage the day-to-day operations in my office.
"I am grateful for your understanding, as well as the support of my colleagues, friends, and family. I hope to share more about my experience upon my return."
Turner's full 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."