WASHINGTON — First-term Rep. Yadira Caraveo, D-Colo., is sharing her story about her battle with depression, saying she sought treatment at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center after it recently became more severe.
Caraveo, 43, a pediatrician, said she disclosed her treatment to help destigmatize mental illness that so many others are experiencing. “Like many Americans, I struggle with depression. As a doctor, I always urge my patients to take care of their health first and receive the support that they need.
In recent months, my depression became more severe, so I decided to take my own advice and seek treatment at Walter Reed Medical Center,” Caraveo said in a statement on X on Monday. “I am grateful for the time and attention their team has provided me with — the type of care every American deserves — while continuing the work for Colorado’s 8th district.” Caraveo added that she’s sharing her story “because I believe we need to de-stigmatize mental illness in Colorado and across our country.
” “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,” she said. “I will continue to fight for access to counseling and mental health services so that any American that ever needs it, has access to it.” It’s unclear how her announcement will impact her tough race for re-election this fall.
In an interview with Colorado Public Radio , Caraveo said her depression caused her to miss some events and votes this past spring. A former state lawmaker, Caraveo in 2022 narrowly won election to represent a new congressional district north of Denver, making history as the first Latina congresswoman in Colorado. She’s now trying to fend off a fierce challenge from Republican state Rep.
Gabe Evans. In 2020, Joe Biden won what today is Colorado’s 8th district by a close margin, 50.8% to 46.
3%. The Cook Political Report calls the race a “toss up.” After issuing her statement, Caraveo received an outpouring of support from colleagues.
“This is true strength,” tweeted Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Texas, a fellow freshman. “Thank you for sharing your story & using your voice to chip away at the stigma millions of Americans suffering from depression still face today.
” And a fellow Colorado Democrat, Rep. Diana DeGette, called Caraveo “a friend” and “an exceptional legislator with incredible promise.” “I am glad to see that she is taking the steps necessary to care for herself, and I know that she will come out stronger on the other side,” DeGette said in a statement.
“Mental health care is health care. Millions of Americans are impacted by mental health conditions, and they deserve access to the care they need to live happy and healthy lives,” DeGette continued. “I admire Yadira’s strength and courage, as we all must work together to end the stigma around mental health care.
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