The newly crowned Miss Hudson Valley says sharing her story of depression on News 12's Newsmakers has helped her feel more comfortable with the disorder.

April Maroshick, 21, was crowned Saturday night. She says winning Miss Hudson Valley was validation for her that despite being depressed, she can still accomplish things she did not think possible.

The day before the pageant, Maroshick appeared on News 12's Newsmakers to share her battle with depression. She has not narrowed down exactly what caused her depression, but says having the right people with her and seeing a therapist helped her.

She says speaking openly about the disorder on News 12 helped her and she wants to help others who are struggling.

Maroshick will now compete in the Miss New York USA pageant in January.