Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo asks for a leave of absence to deal with depression

Lina Hidalgo, Harris County judge, reported that she will temporarily leave her post as head of the most populous county in Texas to receive medical treatment for clinical depression. The announcement was made with a statement that was disseminated on her social networks. She was diagnosed in July and was admitted to an out-of-state facility.

The Democrat noted that County Commissioner Rodney Ellis will preside over the Commissioners Court while she receives treatment. She detailed that her chief of staff will handle the day-to-day operations of her office. She assured that she expects to return to her duties in early September. "My medical care team and I are hopeful that I will be able to resume my normal schedule by early September," Hidalgo said in the statement.

"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", the judge said.

Hidalgo, who is considered a rising leader among Texas Democrats, said that since she began her political career in the state, she has made it a priority to speak out about mental health. "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", the judge maintained.