Current:Home > MarketsSen. John Fetterman is receiving treatment for clinical depression -Wealth Evolution Experts
Sen. John Fetterman is receiving treatment for clinical depression
View
Date:2025-04-12 09:17:32
Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., is receiving treatment for clinical depression at Walter Reed hospital, his office announced Thursday. His chief of staff said Fetterman checked himself in Wednesday night.
"While John has experienced depression off and on throughout his life, it only became severe in recent weeks," chief of staff Adam Jentleson said in a statement.
Fetterman was evaluated Monday by a doctor, who on Wednesday recommended inpatient care, according to the statement. He is receiving treatment "on a voluntary basis."
The Pennsylvania Democrat defeated Dr. Mehmet Oz in a closely watched Senate race in November, securing a key Democratic pickup in the chamber.
Fetterman has had recent health complications
Fetterman had a stroke in May of last year, which sidelined him from the midterm campaign for two months, and soon after he had a pacemaker and defibrillator implanted to treat an irregular heart rhythm.
He continues to face issues related to auditory processing. Fetterman is accompanied by aides around the Capitol who use a mobile device that translates voice to text using closed captioning.
Fetterman was hospitalized again last week after feeling light-headed at a Democratic Senate retreat. But after testing and observation, doctors ruled out the possibility of another stroke.
His wife, Gisele Barreto Fetterman, posted on Twitter Thursday asking for privacy during this "difficult time for our family."
"After what he's been through in the past year, there's probably no one who wanted to talk about his own health less than John," she said. "I'm so proud of him for asking for help and getting the care he needs."
Fellow lawmakers offer words of support
It is generally rare for sitting officials to acknowledge receiving treatment for mental health conditions. One relatively recent example, though, is Sen. Tina Smith, D-Minn., who shared her experience with depression in her 30s in a 2019 floor speech in support of legislation to expand mental health care access.
Jason Kander, an Army veteran who served in Afghanistan, dropped out of the 2018 Kansas City mayor's race due to his struggles with PTSD and depression.
Many of Fetterman's colleagues from both parties posted their reactions on social media, applauding his openness.
"Back in 2010, I was hospitalized for depression. I would not be alive, let alone in Congress, were it not for mental health care," Rep. Ritchie Torres, D-N.Y., said on Twitter. "Millions of Americans are rooting for you, Senator."
Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, also posted on Twitter, saying, "Heidi & I are lifting John up in prayer." The senator's wife Heidi Cruz has spoken about her past battles with depression, and their teenage daughter has acknowledged experiencing mental health issues.
"Mental illness is real & serious, and I hope that [Fetterman] gets the care he needs," Cruz continued. "Regardless of which side of the political aisle you're on, please respect his family's request for privacy."
Depression is a common condition
Depression is one of the most common mental health disorders in the United States. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, more than 8% of U.S. adults had at least one major depressive episode in 2020.
Symptoms include persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, hopelessness, an inability to focus, and recurring thoughts of death or suicide. But it's a treatable condition, says Dr. Rebecca Brendel, president of the American Psychiatric Association.
"There are multiple different kinds of treatments that range from medications that include psychotherapy and can also include other changes to behavior and focus on wellness and nutrition," she said.
People with symptoms should seek help, she said, and a good place to do that is with a trusted health care provider like a primary care physician.
If you or someone you know is in an emotional crisis, dial the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing or texting 9-8-8.
NPR political correspondent Susan Davis and congressional correspondent Deirdre Walsh contributed to this report.
veryGood! (38817)
Related
- Tree trimmer dead after getting caught in wood chipper at Florida town hall
- Mike Evans injury update: Buccaneers WR injured in game vs. Saints
- How much is the 2025 Volkswagen ID Buzz EV? A lot more than just any minivan
- What TV channel is Bengals vs. Giants game on? Sunday Night Football start time, live stream
- The FTC says 'gamified' online job scams by WhatsApp and text on the rise. What to know.
- Opinion: Texas proves it's way more SEC-ready than Oklahoma in Red River rout
- Operator dies and more than a dozen passengers hurt as New Jersey commuter train hits tree
- Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh reveals heart condition prompted temporary exit vs. Broncos
- Off the Grid: Sally breaks down USA TODAY's daily crossword puzzle, Hi Hi!
- Marvin Harrison Jr. injury update: Cardinals WR exits game with concussion vs. Packers
Ranking
- Selena Gomez's "Weird Uncles" Steve Martin and Martin Short React to Her Engagement
- Cleveland Guardians vs. New York Yankees channel today: How to watch Game 1 of ALCS
- 1 dead, 9 injured after shooting near Tennessee State University, authorities say
- Struggling to pay monthly bills? These companies say they can help lower them.
- Why Sean "Diddy" Combs Is Being Given a Laptop in Jail Amid Witness Intimidation Fears
- J.Crew Outlet’s Extra 70% off Sale -- $228 Tweed Jacket for $30, Plus $16 Sweaters, $20 Pants & More
- CFP bracket projection: Texas stays on top, Oregon moves up and LSU returns to playoff
- Wisconsin officials require burning permits in 13 counties as dry conditions continue
Recommendation
New Zealand official reverses visa refusal for US conservative influencer Candace Owens
Travis Hunter injury update: Colorado star left K-State game with apparent shoulder injury
Six college football teams can win national championship from Texas to Oregon to ... Alabama?!
Andrew Garfield and Dr. Kate Tomas Break Up
The White House is cracking down on overdraft fees
‘Legacy’ Forests. ‘Restoration’ Logging. The New Jargon of Conservation Is Awash in Ambiguity. And Politics
‘Terrifier 3’ slashes ‘Joker’ to take No. 1 at the box office, Trump film ‘The Apprentice’ fizzles
Wisconsin closing some public parking lots that have become camps for homeless