Rep. Yadira Caraveo (D-Colo.) publicly shared her experience with depression on Monday, disclosing that she is receiving treatment at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. Caraveo’s decision to speak out aims to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness.
In a statement, Caraveo, a pediatrician serving her first term in the House, acknowledged that she has been battling depression, with symptoms intensifying recently. “As a doctor, I always advise my patients to prioritize their health and seek necessary support,” she said. “Following my own advice, I have sought treatment at Walter Reed Medical Center.”
Caraveo emphasized the importance of addressing mental health openly. “We need to de-stigmatize mental illness both in Colorado and across the nation,” she added. “I hope that by sharing my story, more people who struggle with anxiety or other mental health issues will seek help.”
Caraveo is the first Latina to represent Colorado in Congress. She faces a challenging reelection campaign this fall, as Republicans have identified her seat in the 8th Congressional District as a potential target. Recently, the House GOP campaign arm used a mobile billboard at the Democratic National Convention to criticize her along with four other House Democrats.
Caraveo’s announcement follows similar disclosures by other lawmakers, including Sen. Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Rep. Seth Moulton (D-Mass.), and Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.), who also sought treatment for depression at Walter Reed last year.
Vice President Kamala Harris praised Caraveo’s bravery. “Your courage reminds people across our nation that they are not alone,” Harris wrote on X. “Together, we will continue to fight for every American to have access to mental health care and support.”
