SURPRISE, Ariz. -- Rangers Hall of Fame broadcaster Eric Nadel will miss the start of the team's season as he deals with anxiety, insomnia and depression, Nadel announced in a statement on Wednesday.

“As many of you know, for years I have been an advocate for those with mental health issues," Nadel wrote. "I now find myself dealing with anxiety, insomnia and depression which are currently preventing me from doing the job I love. So, I regret to say I will not be in the broadcast booth when the season starts.

“I am receiving treatment as I go through the healing process and encourage others with similar issues to reach out for help.

“I am tremendously grateful to [fellow announcers] Matt [Hicks] and Jared [Sandler] for the superb job they are doing in my absence. Rangers’ management has been wonderful to me. I thank them for their concern, kindness and understanding. Rangers’ fans have always given me tremendous support, and I ask for their continued support at this time and in the future.”

Nadel, who labels himself a “mental health activist and advocate for the homeless” in his Twitter bio, has hosted several benefit concerts for such non-profit organizations as Focus on Teens and Café Momentum, which aim to provide for at-risk and homeless youth. Nadel is also a longtime supporter of The National Alliance on Mental Illness and The Campaign to Change Direction.

Nadel joined the Rangers in 1979 and was inducted into the Texas Baseball Hall of Fame in ’91. The 71-year-old became the 15th member of the Texas Rangers Hall of Fame in August 2012.

Hicks and Sandler will be on the call in Nadel’s absence. No timeline has been given on Nadel’s return.