KGBT (Rio Grande Valley) Anchor Nicole Hickl is missing from the station’s newscasts as she takes time off to battle depression.

Hickl posted to the station’s website that she is working to get better and is encouraging others that maybe be dealing with the same thing to speak up.

This is her statement:

A little over 3 months ago, I could no longer hide behind my mask. I took to Facebook and let my CBS 4 viewers know that I was suffering from depression. As frightening as it was, it opened a bigger world than I could have ever imagined. I started a series called “Mental Health Unmasked”, to spread love, raise awareness and to start the conversation. With the support of CBS 4 and Sinclair Broadcasting Group I was able to take control of my depression and offer a voice to those, like me, that suffer in silence. The take away is that, in order to heal, we must do the work. I have chosen to take some time away from the anchor desk and put in some much-needed work on myself. Even when we’re broken, and the world seems to be closing in, we have to trust, change and believe that all things are possible. I trust my wonderful CBS 4 news team and believe they will deliver the news of the day strong and effectively while I am getting better. I am thankful to Sinclair Broadcasting for seeing the strength in my vulnerability and supporting me while I am away getting the help I so need and deserve.

I plan to be back stronger than ever for my family, my friends, my amazing team at CBS 4, my followers and, mostly importantly, for myself and you, my extended family that supports me and welcomes me into your home every evening. Thank you for your continued support and I can’t wait to see all of you soon.