Dark Conversations and Seeking Treatment
Senator John Fetterman, a first-term Democrat from Pennsylvania, recently shared his deeply personal battle with depression in an interview on NBC’s “Meet the Press.” Fetterman revealed that he had “dark conversations” about self-harm before realizing he needed help and seeking treatment.
Fetterman’s decision to seek treatment was driven by his concern for his three school-age children. He didn’t want to become a blueprint for their own struggles, leaving them to wonder why he had taken such drastic measures.
On February 15, Fetterman checked himself into Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Maryland. He described feeling hopeless during his stay, with moments when he questioned his own survival.
Fear of Political Fallout
In addition to battling depression, Fetterman was still recovering from a stroke he had suffered in May 2022 while campaigning for a Senate seat. He underwent a pacemaker implantation to manage two heart conditions.
Fetterman believed that his decision to seek treatment would mark the end of his political career. He had concerns about how his constituents and the public would react when they learned about his mental health struggles.
However, Fetterman’s victory in the election against Republican Mehmet Oz helped Democrats retain control of the Senate and elevated his national profile. Despite this success, he found it difficult to even get out of bed at his home in western Pennsylvania.
A Father’s Struggle
Fetterman shared how his depression deeply affected his children. Despite his election win, they couldn’t understand why their dad was still so sad. It was a heartbreaking experience for Fetterman, who struggled to explain his emotions to his 9-year-old child.
The upcoming holidays compounded Fetterman’s distress. He couldn’t bring himself to think about buying Christmas presents for his children and dreaded his upcoming swearing-in on Capitol Hill.
Seeking Help and Recovery
Facing worsening symptoms, Fetterman finally checked into Walter Reed National Military Medical Center two months later. His aides had noticed his withdrawal and lack of interest in daily activities.
During his treatment, Fetterman admitted to having dark conversations with himself about self-harm, a common occurrence for individuals unable to address their depression. Recognizing the severity of his situation, he hit the “emergency brake” and sought the help he desperately needed.
Before this interview, Fetterman had never publicly discussed his battle with depression. However, since completing six weeks of inpatient treatment, his depression is now in remission.
A Message of Hope
Since his recovery, Fetterman has become an active and vocal presence in the Capitol. He has engaged with reporters, exchanged banter with Senate colleagues, and been actively involved in Senate hearings.
Reflecting on his journey, Fetterman offered words of guidance and hope to those facing their own battles with mental health: “I know that last year was desolate. And this year might be desolate. But next year can be the best ever. And that’s what happened for me.”
