Key Takeaways:
- Former Rep. Yadira Caraveo’s staff reports mistreatment and trauma.
- She attempted suicide twice while in office.
- A safety plan was proposed but rejected.
- Caraveo apologized for her behavior.
The Challenges Faced
Former Rep. Yadira Caraveo faced significant mental health struggles during her time in Congress. According to her staff, these challenges deeply impacted her behavior and interactions with her team. Caraveo, known for her work as a pediatrician before entering politics, was first elected in 2022 to represent Colorado’s 8th District. However, her tenure was marked by personal battles that affected her office environment.
Impact on Staff
Staff members detailed a difficult work atmosphere, describing frequent mistreatment. High turnover rates plagued her office, as staffers often felt blamed for issues beyond their control, such as event cancellations due to Caraveo’s mental health struggles. The staff reported that Caraveo rarely apologized for her actions, contributing to a tense and stressful workplace.
The Proposed Solution
In response to these challenges, staffers proposed a safety plan to manage Caraveo’s mental health crises. The plan included removing sharp objects from the office and ensuring staff members weren’t solely responsible for intervening during emergencies. However, this proposal was rejected. Staffers were given an ultimatum: either commit to supporting Caraveo through her struggles or resign immediately.
Caraveo’s Response
Caraveo has been open about her struggles with depression. In a statement, she acknowledged the impact of her illness on those around her. She expressed regret for how she treated her staff, family, and friends, recognizing that her health issues led to her behavior. Her statement highlights the challenges of living with chronic mental health conditions.
What’s Next
Despite these difficulties, Caraveo is actively campaigning to reclaim her congressional seat. Her journey reflects both personal resilience and the broader challenges of mental health awareness in the workplace. As she moves forward, her experience may spark important conversations about supporting mental health in high-pressure environments.