LOCAL: HARRIS COUNTY JUDGE LINA HIDALGO OPENS UP ABOUT CLINICAL DEPRESSION AND THE PATH TO RECOVERY

By Jo-Carolyn Goode, Managing Editor For www.StyleMagazine.com

Over 21 million Americans are grappling with clinical depression, and among them is Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo. In an open letter to Harris County residents, she revealed her diagnosis and her decision to take a leave of absence for treatment. Hidalgo's message underscores the necessity of treating mental health conditions with the same importance as physical ailments.

She emphasizes that the long-standing stigma surrounding mental health has stopped individuals from seeking the essential help they need.

"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," expressed Hidalgo. She urged openness about mental health challenges and shared her own struggles, hoping to inspire others to prioritize their well-being and seek assistance.

Hidalgo candidly disclosed that she had silently battled her condition before an official diagnosis last month. Following medical guidance, she opted for treatment at an out-of-state facility in late July. As the senior member of the court, Commissioner Rodney Ellis will temporarily preside over Commissioners' Court, while Hidalgo's chief of staff oversees her office's operations. While not physically present, Hidalgo remains reachable for emergencies.

Hidalgo's transparency is both courageous and commend able. Upon hearing the news, elected officials, including Mayor Sylvester Turner, extended their support, emphasizing that seeking help is a sign of strength. 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," stated Mayor Sylvester Turner, who hopes this experience will encourage others to seek help if they need it.

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Pastor T. Leon Preston, Pastor Tim Dixon, Pastor M. D. Morrison, Pastor Walter August, Dr. Joe Ratliff, Dr. Remus Wright, Dr. Mia Wright, Pastor Suzette Caldwell, Pastor Rudy Rasmus, Interim-Pastor Gusta Booker III, Pastor Harvey Clemons, Bishop Donald Thompson, Pastor Terrance Johnson, Dr. F. N. Williams II, Pastor Greg Patrick, Bishop Destry Bell, Bishop Kenneth Murray, Pastor Alton Mitchell, Pastor E A Deckard, Pastor Carl Colston, Pastor Gerald Shanks, Pastor Jabez Abraham, Dr. Ross Collins, Pastor Byron Stevenson, Pastor Wendi I. Turner, Pastor Roderick Dawson, Pastor Cassandra Scott, Pastor Billy Williams, Pastor Trevy Washington, Bishop Johnny Tates, Bishop Kurt Thompson, Pastor Ja’Mail Johnson, Dr. Andre Lewis, Pastor Maurice McGartha, Pastor Murray Martin, Bishop Bill Hines, Dr. Craig Hayes, Pastor Carl Davis, Dr. Rhonda Dickey, Pastor Charlene Glover, Pastor D. E Broadnax, Pastor William Hennesy, Bishop Maceo Delagraentiss, Pastor Anthony Wilcots, Bishop Dewayne Sheriden, Dr. Kenneth Campbell, Bishop Prince Bryant, Pastor John Murray, Pastor James Nash, Pastor Michael Smith, Dr. Reginald Rose, Bishop Elehue Livingston, Pastor Louis Sidney, Pastor Revlon Belle, Dr. Samuel Massie, Pastor David Pope, Rev. Kenneth Basile, Pastor Lou McElroy

Special Guests:

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, Missouri City Mayor Robin Elackatt, Pearland Mayor Kevin Cole, Stafford Mayor Ken Matthews

Fort Bend County Judge KP George, Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis, Fort Bend County Commissioner Grady Prestage, Fort Bend County Commissioner Dexter McCoy, State Senator Boris Miles, State Representative Alma Allen, State Representative Ron Reynolds, State Representative Senfronia Thompson, State Representative Shawn Thierry, Fort Bend County District Attorney Brian Middleton, Missouri City Councilmember Jeffrey Boney, Fort Bend County Sheriff Eric Fagan, Fort Bend County Constable Daryl L. Smith Sr , HAUL President Judson W. Robinson III, Mr. Claude Cummings Jr., Mr. Howard Jefferson

Depressve episodes can be triggered by various life events, such as job loss, the death of a loved one, or financial struggles. Nobody is immune to these challenges, and while some emerge from depression more easily, others may require extended assistance. This is where professional help comes into play.

The recent decision by Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo to take a leave of absence to prioritize her mental health has cast a spotlight on clinical depression.

Among the spectrum of depressive experiences, clinical depression stands out as a severe form of the illness. Those grappling with clinical depression often endure pervasive sadness throughout the day, coupled with a loss of interest in regular activities and social withdrawal.

Yet, clinical depression extends beyond the common life-induced symptoms. Family and friends may notice a profound change in your overall demeanor. Thoughts of death may loom large in your mind, while feelings of sadness, worthlessness, and restlessness