Democratic rising star Lina Hidalgo reveals what led her to take leave for clinical depression

Lina Hidalgo, who leads one of the most populated areas of the country, which includes Houston, stunned constituents over the summer when she took leave to seek treatment for clinical depression. First on "CBS Mornings," Hidalgo opens up to CBS News senior White House and political correspondent Ed O'Keefe about what led to her leave and how she hopes to help others.
#news #democrat #health
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[@c.s.7266]

I have Major Depressive Disorder and CPSD and I have been out of work for a while now and am trying to get back to work but it's very difficult to put that on my resume for obvious reasons. This problem is really difficult to cope with. Hats off to this woman for having the courage to speak out on this subject

[@editingkinga]

No need to get into details. if the employer asks about a gap, just say it was for personal/ family reasons. At least you weren't incarcerated...

[@yrp237]

Lots of people have gaps in resumes, I have several no one has ever asked about them! Plus "taking time off for my health & relaxation" is perfectly acceptable answer if asked. Most people assume gaps are because someone was being picky about their next job which is also perfectly acceptable.

[@evanstern3222]

I follow Judge Hidalgo on social media. The comments I have seen people spew at her are consistently hateful, dehumanizing and shocking. While some might say ‘that’s politics,” what she’s endured pushes the boundaries of normalcy. Considering this, it’s little wonder her mental health has suffered. Count me as one who’s rooting for her, and sending thoughts of strength and hope in her direction.

[@billyin4c514]

She should just avoid reading those comments, people really take alot of liberties online, plus you're dealing with other people's mental issues, and people who don't know how to communicate well.

[@RJL612]

Bet you don't feel the same for Trump.

[@eththagah4572]

She’s actually crazy and this story absolutely makes sense. No one in their right mind would pull the crap she’s pulled in harris county.

[@fauxbro1983]

Lol did she storm the beaches ar Omaha

[@eththagah4572]

@user-mj9lq9vp3w Makes me feel good knowing our judges are filled with anti-depressant medications..With her salary what’s there to be depressed about?

[@jbird452]

She is a terrible leader and allowed inmates to be released during Covid. Her staff was also indicted for mishandling millions of dollars and suddenly that investigation disappeared. While I sympathize her for her depression- I do not sympathize her for a failed leadership.

[@louisasmiles]

Clinical depression isn't fun. Good on her for putting her mind first. She took action. She's open and I love it. Hopefully she can help carve the way for better mental health care in the US

[@aprilabbatoy]

Have you seen 'Hi Ren' by renmakesmusic? It's a beautiful song that sheds light on mental health.

[@maurreese]

Clinical depression is something tens of millions of people struggle with including myself. It doesn’t disqualify you from political office as much as having diabetes or other chronic conditions. I applaud her courage and determination and wish her well ❤

[@emmawalton1849]

@maurreese Brotha..say it LOUD for the PEOPLE IN THE BACK. It's an ILLNESS NOT A WEAKNESS. Education is the key...to understanding the ILLNESS.

[@topics123]

Election Time! I have clinical depression and a physical disability

[@johnwright9372]

Almost a third of Americans report clinical depression, but the real numbers are probably much higher because they bottle it up and are afraid of stigma.

[@danpenry8899]

The US government is the root cause for most people's depression plus social media is also responsible for a lot of people's depression

[@elizabethsmith3081]

Good for her! No one would question her treatment if she had cancer or another serious condition. I am very proud of her being honest and speaking out!❤

[@SoundPursuit]

This is a media release to improve her public image. Please review what she has and hasn’t done while in office.

[@orangechickengorl]

Spill the tea

[@MattGaetzOnAWhiteFordBronco]

Bravo for Lina Hidalgo! She's a high achiever and she flat-out said "I'm doing everything right but still feel there's something wrong." That's how many people with depression feel.

[@SunraeSkatimunggr]

This society says, get help if you are depressed, but then it gets used against you when you do. It is all lip service!!!

[@rybfish76]

They also expect you to pay it for it when most of America doesn't have health insurance. 😐

[@AverageJoe483]

Unlike most workers in the U.S. she got paid for 2 months while away from her job . Most Americans don’t get the luxury . They can’t afford to leave a job for 2 months because your pay would be cut off .

[@gabrieladkinsGS]

Yep. God bless her but it just causes more depression in those less fortunate...

[@biancamichelle11]

Treatment for depression doesn’t require time off. She was undiagnosed, got time of to discover what was making her feel bad. It’s true that most people can’t take time off. But everyday people are diagnosed and treated for depression, appointments can even be done over the phone.

[@CortexNewsService]

And she said that even she, leading a large government, couldn't afford it. Her family had to drain the savings account. She had the privilege to do it, but only just.

[@AverageJoe483]

@@biancamichelle11 maybe I’m undiagnosed . I’ve experienced the symptoms . I can’t take 2 months PAID leave . I’m saying she has a lot of privilege that most don’t have .

[@MusicBoxAlsoWater]

@biancamichelle11 Absolutely. People come off as very resentful. I get it, but people need to redirect their anger. Why is the system this way, where you can deal with mental health in the open the way you may be able to a physical condition? Also many people don't realize that they can utilize short term insurance or FMLA or if they qualify, state benefits to stay in patient. Yes, it can be considered privilege, but we don't have to be upset with people for utilizing their right in the workplace. Politicians are still people and still need time off.

[@waryinzero]

It takes a lot of courage and tenacity to publicall talk about this which in turn will hopefully help other people with the same disease.

[@DoDgeSwaG]

If you can’t serve in the military with depression and suicidal thoughts 😢then you shouldn’t be able to fill a government seat and serve constituents.

[@j.thomas7128]

Rising Star? Are you kidding me? She narrowly avoided criminal prosecution when guilty of steering government contracts. Three of her own staff were charged, but she was not charged with an obvious case of conspiracy to commit fraud! One contact alone was for $11,000,000. Now she's using the excuse of depression... Do not use a serious problem/condition as an excuse for your criminal behavior. It wasn't depression that caused you to commit crime. Don't use it as your excuse. Rising Star must mean something different to liberals. This Rising Star must have something to do with getting away with crime!

[@robertschrader]

One of America's worst covid tyrants.

[@aky19832001]

She's a liability. According to job requirements "Not have been determined by a court with probate jurisdiction to be totally mentally incapacitated or partially mentally incapacitated without the right to vote" This isn't about feelings. It's about choosing the best candidate that's competent mentally,emotionally and physically to make clear decisions . She's clearly indicating that she's incapable of making clear decisions due to depression and suicidal thoughts. I don't get why she would publically say this? I wish her the best of luck, but she needs to step down.

[@ndo533]

No

[@Privyone]

This does not apply here.

[@xyzodiac7761]

Agree

[@YT4Me57]

I suffered in silence with clinical depression until I had a breakdown at work, drove myself to a local hospital and began a 5 year journey back to sanity. Two of them on medication and under a psychiatrist's care. Thankfully my health insurance covered it, but I was an outpatient. If i had been admitted to a treatment facility, I would probably still be paying the bill 30 years later!

[@dianabrown2258]

These anchors are so compassionate!!

[@KiraAntoinette]

Kudos to her for speaking out about it. So many people can relate to her ♥️

[@Handlethis342]

This is the type of deeply personal conversation that makes republicans squirm in their seats. They would rather sweep it under the rug because honestly equates to weakness. Tough lady. Respect.

[@nicholasbogosian5420]

Yes, that's the narrative. That people who identify as liberal/Democrat are mental health vulnerable.

[@melb2336]

That’s not the point of this video

[@Handlethis342]

@@melb2336 actually, it is one of the important points. Are you here to confirm my bias?

[@melb2336]

@@Handlethis342 you bias is already confirmed on delusional basis

[@Handlethis342]

@@melb2336 and there you have it.

[@savageinstitute9569]

Resign, take care of yourself. The people of Harris county deserve someone of sound mind in that position.

[@kpokpojiji]

She is of sound mind. This is why she sought treatment and is giving this interview.

[@savageinstitute9569]

@@kpokpojiji seeking treatment and/or doing interviews is not evidence of sound mind. Shes in Colombia, shes in Thailand then in Ohio. She just inst there for her people. She missed important votes, an important emergency declaration after a tornado. She should get her life together quietly not seek attention and pretend it is solely to help others. She is under huge public and legal pressure to resign.

[@banana_hammock7158]

Good for her. I wish must people would come out about depression

[@sonjaanderson6933]

People should be able to work from home at least two days a week, forcing workers to be in an office for five days are driving people crazy. Yes the government is at fault and the people that own these work places and businesses are also inhumane and greedy. Healthcare should be free, can you imagine a person that work baging groceries, having her illness and do not have the resources to get the help that is needed? Wow this is scary.

[@dollyperry3020]

I think mental health needs more coverage in our health insurance.

[@LectronCircuits]

Clinical Depression can happen to anybody at any time. Treatment is available to those who can afford it! Audience wishes her all the best. Cheers!

[@nitachondria]

i’m a huge fan of Lina Hidalgo and am incredibly grateful she got the care she needs 💜

[@aliciagreen5411]

This is great. It's so hard to describe depression. Best of luck to her

[@tupoufinucane458]

What a beautiful, articulate and intelligent woman. I've never heard of her before. Wishing her getting better everyday ❤🎉❤

[@lariosi]

Thank you for sharing your story. 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@donotdiscard4430]

We need better health insurance for ALL. And mental health should be a priority within our health care system.

[@tr7b410]

Living & working under the strain of the changing political dynamics occurring in Texas would for any sane person be depressing.

[@jerrijobarkerlove3613]

Texan here. This segment is incredibly powerful. Thank you all. 💙

[@YouAreNotAlone648]

I am not sure why the reporter thought it was necessary to ask how much was her treatment. The cost of treatment is irrelevant. When someone in your family requires immediate medical attention, the last thing on your mind is “how much.”

[@mperez2428]

It might be because once someone speaks up about it then they have to plan for the help and cost and make decisions like she said about using savings. Alot of people think..ya must be easy to get help if you're "rich"

[@rorygiambalvo2955]

That's not been my experience. It took years for me to agree to start medication because I was worried about the cost as I knew my family couldn't easily afford it. It's definitely a factor for a lot of people. Though, I'm sure not everyone!

[@SleepBomber]

Thank you. This is exactly what i needed today. 😢

[@Southerntrashbandit]

Can she just do her job? This city is littered with crime and corruption and she is skipping down the street going on and on about depression. Dude, I get it and cool she got help.. but get out of the court house. If your judgement told you to go get a psychological evaluation then what is your judgement on everything else? That's like having a crime scene technician have a mental breakdown and still go to work.

[@exquisiteworksllc3659]

She seems like a cool person & a person for the people, God bless her 🙏🏻❤️

[@dhornjr1]

She's a very impressive young lady. I hate that she's having to deal with what so many of us deal with every day. I know tnat "wanting to die" feeling. I struggle with it every day.

[@poreopogioreo3789]

Get her out! For her own sake and the sake of Houston......

[@ALADDIN22091978]

I had a nervous breakdown to get my ADHD detected . I have diagnoses of dyspraxia and Aspergers traits, now autistic traits. All diagnoses as an adult. I have recent depression as a result of my dyspraxia.

[@aprilabbatoy]

You may find the song 'Hi Ren' by renmakesmusic inspiring, it's a great song about mental health.

[@johngarcia8827]

Cringeworthy I m so sick of these narcisistic , self important politicians . They are like children We need adults to enact policy and stop whining about their personal lives

[@than0s948]

You mean like Donald Trump?

[@ljacobs357]

Since being elected, she has been a favorite target of Texas Republicans. Being a young, progressive female Democrat she represents everything the good old boy Texas conservatives are against. They have made her tenure very difficult.

[@MilitaryFusion]

Harris County isn't geographically big. There's like 40 counties larger than that one. But population wise. It's huge

[@Ramiiyah]

THANK YOU FOR THE AWARENESS

[@nicholaspennmusic]

No wonder she’s depressed. She’s 32 years old and she’s got too much pressure on her.

[@nicholaspennmusic]

You gotta change your career sweetheart.

[@donotdiscard4430]

Think of all the problems that could be prevented, individually and as a society, if our health care system prioritized mental health... Less addictions, less domestic abuse, less heart attacks (and other ailments), less unemployment, less crime, less mass murders and who knows, we could be a healthier society in general! Accessible, non-judgmental and affordable mental health care should be built into health insurance. It wouldn't fix all our problems, but it’s a good start. On the other hand, if we get too healthy we might wreck a big chunk of the economy; Think of all the doctors, lawyers, bail bonds businesses, and for-profit corrections facilities we'd put out of business!

[@potatoe679]

I’m glad she got it figured out but I think this should disqualify someone from holding public office. Being heavily medicated only exacerbates this.

[@GGCandle]

From quitting law school to public office, this person seems to have a track record of checking out, not following through Maybe fortify yourself before entering realms with massive responsibility? We’re talking about oversight of the 3rd most populous region in the country not oversight of an emotional support animal.

[@maildeliverysubsystemmaile9178]

1. She decided to run for office and left Harvard / NYU to do THAT instead. 2. Oh and she WON that election. 3. She COMPLETED her college degree from Stanford. 4. She COMPLETED the Ironman triathlon. ** I’m guessing that’s more impressive than anything you or I have achieved.** ** This woman has a track record of accomplishment. **She was sick, and took time off to get well.

[@kpokpojiji]

Your comment really teeters between gross misunderstanding, hate of "the other" and ignorance. Well done.

[@millypoo7713]

$88,000 !!! WTF!

[@AG-xl4hy]

The thing is inpatient mental health treatment isn’t available for the majority of low income people in this country.

[@Battleatchivamaugs]

Ah yes, Houston. I'd be depressed too

[@Ren0799]

Thank you for sharing Lina!! For sharing your experience. It makes us struggling the same to feel not alone. Thank you🙏🏽 I don’t know you but love you and pray for you and your well-being!!🙏🏽🙏🏽♥️

[@Krissinator]

I have clinical depression too. Its hard to function sometimes even while medicated and actively going to therapy. Good on her for taking care of herself

[@lawiwis882]

Ridiculous, where did the millions go Lina??? Why did you mishandle COVID funds, why is no one questioning her on the real issues?!?

[@taubevictor8989]

Well then, she doesnt need too Her constituents need to know nothing gets in the way of her job for the people. And yet. The media finds this to be cool

[@katharinesantana7147]

Anyone who keeps aiming for higher office is in it for the wrong reasons.

[@brettwitzel]

This girl boss had a boyfriend willing to pay $88k to save her life.

[@BlueMoon-kb8ds]

We love you, Lina!

[@KrisRyanStallard]

I wish more of us could get two months off for treatment. I don't hold it against her, I just wish everyone got that opportunity.

[@Nadahomer]

Good for you and thank you. The cost is the biggest barrier

[@isabellaflorentina7574]

Oh my gosh this lady needs to step down immediately. It is obvious she is not fit for duty. Yes she deserves a good life and needs to take care of herself, but she us not up for the job and she needs to leave public office.

[@dustywilson5461]

Sorry but someone with this kind of problem shouldn't be entrusted to serve in such high positions of power. She needs prolonged treatment before being completely evaluated in order to demonstrate she's stable enough to take on such a big responsibility. Its tough for me to advocate that but many people's lives are on the line.

[@keithbrown3045]

Isn't she under investigation for corruption?

[@j.thomas7128]

Steering over $100,000,000 in govt contacts to those with the biggest bribes, kickbacks, and gifts. Three of her senior staff have been charged, and even though she's the linchpin of the operation and the recipient of bribes and grifts, she has yet to find charged with conspiracy to commit fraud.

[@michaelmclain7049]

I feel so inspired after watching this. I’m gonna get the help I need

[@dumderthanu]

Been a long time since a news clip filled my heart with hope ❤

[@ipman4715]

Hats off to this lady, however she shouldn't be in office in the circumstances 😮

[@Lepidopterous.]

Kudos to her boyfriend too. He sounds like a keeper.

[@batsukamuro]

She gave hope and then dashed it in one stroke with the $88K bill.

[@DJEpisteme]

He's your husband and you're in the best position per your relationship with him. THAT'S actual/truthful/honest/REAL love.

[@pluribus_unum]

The Democratic party wants mental healthcare for all at affordable insurance rates. The Republican party promised a replacement for the Affordable Care Act but have absolutely no plan at all 12 years later. Be an informed voter and #Vote2024.

[@mwatson4970]

Love that! I don't have the ideation, but, the constant feeling of down/tired/weight that NEVER goes away even with a very healthy lifestyle takes a huge toll.

[@kpokpojiji]

The last, commentary about the significance of Senator Fetterman's going public about his depression is great. The senator deserves much credit for this, as i'm sure he's helped many people.

[@Christof708]

Depression in my World isn’t real.

[@MusicBoxAlsoWater]

These comments are the reason why people don't talk about mental health. People thinking money means you shouldn't feel this way or age or not having children. People are very ignorant to mental health disorders and it shows. There is a wide range in depression, along with anxiety(which is typically paired with depression). Some days people feel amazing, other days they can be down or even have SI. People saying that she shouldnt be in the position, would be very surprised how many positions would be abandoned in literally every position around the country, if they said that to every person. I work with health care workers, attorneys, educators, military, gov workers, college students, kids, etc and they all experience depression at one point or another, whether it's long term(chronic) or short term(single episode). They all fight everyday to be a part of society and to take care of themselves first and then their families. Only difference between her and the next person is that she has chosen to be honest about her mental health. I applaud her for that. I dont know her politics, but that part I applaud her on. Others hide bc of fear of judgement or loss of job, family, friendships, or overall community. Please be respectful of people with mental health disorders and educate yourself on it. Also, people want to dislike others based on income(that is a separate topic and you need to reflect on why you feel this strongly about others). All people can have access to mental health care. Don't judge her for the overall American Healthcare System.

[@savageinstitute9569]

When you get back from taking a vacation to take 9 weeks off and the taxpayers are paying for it, you have to be honest. She didnt have much of a choice. To your points, tes many people are mentally ill but a suicidal Hidalgo is not a good fit for Harris county. The voters made a mistake electing a 27 year old with no experience. Stressful for her and the people she represents.

[@derrickcousins2837]

You can’t come to work cause you’re depressed? Seriously? Your in a position where you need to show up for the people it’s not an easy gig 🤷‍♂️

[@speaktruth9631]

"I went on vacations"

[@opossumboyo]

I would probably have clinical depression if I worked in U.S. politics as well.

[@atlanticboulevard]

Fr especially when the GOP is part of the equation

[@oll1998]

Weird, and here I was thinking it was after her staffers got caught stealing 11m dollars. Weird. :)

[@popo_53]

She doesnt need a psyc ward, she needs a prison cell.

[@yaammum]

My lovely Judge!

[@kennymiles1481]

She needs to listen to Dr.Berg. Hospitals would just put you on medication which probably won't solve the problem.

[@laurens7145]

Kudos to Hidalgo for shedding light on the fact that no amount of exercise, self care, or sessions with a psychiatrist and/or a therapist will be enough for some people. But it shouldn’t cost almost $100k to access inpatient treatment.

[@jdub3901]

Houston gets what it voted for...

[@speaktruth9631]

9 week leave of absence???? How Nice. 🖕

[@jeffnelson1961]

It’s extremely difficult because (most) of us that suffer know what it is like to be “normal”….you keep asking why?…”no way out” is a dangerous statement…you go day to day…some are better than others…look around…1 in 10 around you suffer…there is no cure…only remission…hopefully life long remission…

[@nishahuq]

Not everyone is that privileged to take off for 9 freaking weeks and get right back to what they were doing. I wish she would fight for people that also need this. Depression/mental health is a joke in our country. I can't imagine a teacher in fort worth will be allowed to do this, trust me I've seen it. They needed the break. Anyways....hope more people in power can speak up to help their constituents.

[@rakeshbai2732]

I was thinking the same thing.

[@zenamichelleprincezeemiche4729]

Rising problem & She can't handle Her job. Ask a Houstonian First

[@kiaraferris1448]

Lawless world we are in

[@stephaniel5402]

Was hoping we had a Republican latina. Someone will come along.

[@robertrodriguez9984]

Maybe i missed it but whats she depressed about???

[@lagniappelearners4472]

Poor thing. Is she in it for the people? She seems into herself

[@Black.Irishman]

Not everyone has that much money or a job that would allow a person to take that much time away.

[@francodabronco3692]

REAL NEWS flash!!! Down here in Houston we know this woman has not done her job since she's been in office and it's costing our county a ton of money and worse civil unrest. Her inability to do her job is causing a breakdown of county government operations! That's just a FACT!! Do your research CBS and you'll see that her office is lacking... She needs family and rest!! Not a morning show gig after barely returning to work. How about she get herself into her office and do some county work if that's really what she wants to do. Instead of getting on a morning TV show!! Pfft ... What a joke

[@ljacobs357]

Republicans despise her.

[@markwilson3723]

Opening sound bite: "ok, ill have pumpkin spice....." what a puff piece CBS, a complete advertisement, was this spot paid for by her campaign? Depression is a real issue no doubt, but im sorry the pumpkin spice latte opener is not the type of Depression issue most people deal with.

[@IronCypher]

88k omg I'm not worth that much I'd be dead😮

[@jacktastick]

Depression means that you finally realized. You have no power in your life. And the financial overlords are your masters.

[@TIAGreene-sf7yz]

In a real life situation someone losing custody of a child with the presumption they can't run a two person household because of incidental depression (non suicidal)just to cover up an abuser's crime because he need mental health treatment but they too scared to judge him properly and tell him that

[@TIAGreene-sf7yz]

Awesome testimonies. Thanks for sharing the bright side of people struggling with mental health care

[@newbluerugby]

She’s an IRONMAN - that counts for something - & says something about the amount of pain being real. If you know, you know.

[@BlueSkyFalling]

I would be depressed, if my job was to oversee the downward spiral of society.

[@BKDRIVES]

Get out of politics

[@mperez2428]

Why? For needing help? Mental health issues are MEDICAL health issues just like any other medical problem. It can happen to Republicans and Democrats. It shouldn't be made fun of or affiliated to politics. I pray that people understand this so that they know it's ok to seek help if it's needed.

[@Nonnormalnorm]

Stress exasperates mental health issues for people who have them. If there is a crisis, this woman is either going to crumble under the pressure or get people who she is responsible for killEd

[@savageinstitute9569]

​@@mperez2428when you elect a 27 year old who has been in the country around 10 years, recently a citizen, zero experience, no law degree to be chief executive/judge of over 4 million people... and you add depressed and suicidal. The voters made a huge mistake, she should step down or be recalled, unfit for the office she was elected to.