Aug 26, 2024 - News

U.S. Rep. Yadira Caraveo opens up about her depression

Esteban L. Hernandez

A woman speaks while her head is tilted slightly. — U.S. Rep. Yadira Caraveo speaks during a House Democrats Caucus press conference last year in Washington, D.C. Photo: Ricky Carioti/The Washington Post via Getty Images

U.S. Rep. Yadira Caraveo, D-Thornton, spoke publicly for the first time Monday about her mental health, sharing she recently experienced depression symptoms and required hospitalization.

Why it matters: Caraveo, a pediatrician and one of 19 doctors who are members of Congress, says she wanted to share her experience to destigmatize mental illnesses.

Driving the news: The first-term congresswoman said in a statement that she sought treatment at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Washington, D.C. after her depression grew more severe in recent months.

Between the lines: She told CPR News her existing depression symptoms, the new job and a "drive to take care of others," combined to worsen dark thoughts and feelings of hopelessness.

"It was when I got into that dark place that I decided that I needed the right treatment and was able to get that," Caraveo told CPR News.

What she's saying: "It is my hope that the millions of people who struggle with depression, post-traumatic stress, anxiety or any other mental health issues seek help," Caraveo said in her statement.

U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette, D-Denver, also issued a statement Monday supporting Caraveo's message, saying, "We must work together to end the stigma around mental health care."

State of play: Caraveo is locked in a competitive race for re-election in Colorado's 8th Congressional District, which stretches from the suburbs north of Denver to Greeley, against Republican Gabe Evans.

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U.S. Rep. Yadira Caraveo opens up about her depression

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