In a candid interview with NBC News’ “Meet the Press,” Senator John Fetterman, a first-term Democrat from Pennsylvania, revealed his battle with clinical depression and the fear that seeking treatment could end his political career. Fetterman recalled a dark moment in December 2022 when he struggled to get out of bed, dreading his upcoming Senate swearing-in ceremony. His depression, a slow burn exacerbated by the pressure of launching his Senate campaign in 2021 and intensifying after suffering a stroke in May 2022, deeply affected his personal and political life.
The senator, known for using an instant transcription app on his phone, shared how basic conversations and interviews became challenging after the stroke, worsening his depression. Even after winning the Senate race in 2022, Fetterman’s depression accelerated, leading to concerns from his family, especially his children.
It was when thoughts of self-harm surfaced that Fetterman realized he needed help. Despite fearing the potential consequences on his career, he checked himself into Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in February 2023. During his inpatient treatment, he felt walled off from the world but experienced a breakthrough when his children visited, creating a positive turning point in his recovery.
John Fetterman expressed gratitude for the support he received, both from his family and Senate colleagues, emphasizing the importance of sharing his story to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health. He credited the bipartisan Senate Mental Health Caucus, of which he is a member, for working towards expanding awareness and embracing mental health struggles.
The senator emphasized that seeking help works and urged others not to suffer in silence, highlighting his own transformation from skepticism to realizing the effectiveness of treatment.
Despite facing criticism from some Senate GOP colleagues, Fetterman’s openness about his mental health journey received support from both Democrats and Republicans in the Senate. He acknowledged the risks of sharing his struggles but emphasized his commitment to helping others by breaking the silence around mental health.
As Fetterman continues his advocacy through the Senate Mental Health Caucus, he aims to lessen the stigma associated with seeking help and expand awareness about mental health struggles. In his own words, he sees his journey as a way to provide hope and prevent others from experiencing the despair he endured.
Senator Fetterman’s courage in sharing his mental health journey reflects a growing call for openness and understanding in addressing mental health challenges, transcending political boundaries.
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