Sen. John Fetterman takes action to treat his clinical depression

Main image: Sen. John Fetterman in 2019, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

In February 2023, Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania was evaluated by a doctor for clinical depression. The senator’s staff reported that Fetterman has experienced periods of depression throughout his life. After his doctor recommended inpatient care to treat his mental health condition, Fetterman voluntarily checked himself into Walter Reed Hospital just two days later.

Prioritize your mental health and seek out care when needed

In addition to a lifelong medical history of depression, Fetterman also had a stroke in May 2022 and continues to work through cognitive and physical health issues. Managing chronic health conditions is difficult regardless of a person’s situation, made even more difficult while juggling the demands of work and life in general. Having a chronic health condition makes one more likely to experience a mental health condition such as depression, according to the National Institutes of Health.

Fetterman’s decision to seek care for clinical depression is a good reminder that we all should prioritize our mental health and take action when we need the support of trained professionals.

Understand your mental health resources and support through your health plan

Whether you may need occasional emotional support or ongoing mental health care, we can help you find the behavioral health care option that’s right for you. In addition to our network of therapists, counselors and psychiatrists, you can find mental health resources and care options at regence.com. This includes virtual care options that are accessible without a referral from the comfort of your home.

If you’re experiencing a mental health emergency, dial 988 to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The lifeline provides free, confidential, 24/7 support to anyone who’s depressed, needs to talk or is thinking about suicide.