Democratic Senator John Fetterman has opened up about his struggles with depression, revealing that the mental health challenge he faced during his recent election campaign has had a lasting impact.
Fetterman's candid discussion comes after a tight victory in Pennsylvania's special election last month. The senator appeared on CBS News' 'Face the Nation' and spoke about how his battle with depression affected him during the campaign.
"I've been open about my struggles with mental health, but this was different," he said. "I felt like I was losing myself, like I wasn't John Fetterman anymore." He added that the experience left him feeling "downward spiral" and wondered if he would be able to continue his work as a senator.
Fetterman, who won the election by a narrow margin of 0.2%, acknowledged that his mental health struggles may have affected his performance on the campaign trail. The senator took responsibility for any perceived shortcomings during the campaign and assured voters that he is "still committed" to serving them.
The senator's openness about his depression is a significant moment in his public career, as it highlights the importance of mental health awareness and encourages others to speak out about their struggles.
Despite facing numerous challenges, Fetterman remains determined to serve the people of Pennsylvania. His commitment to improving mental health resources and reducing stigma around mental illness reflects his dedication to addressing these critical issues.
Fetterman's courageous conversation about depression serves as a reminder that vulnerability is strength, not weakness.
Fetterman's candid discussion comes after a tight victory in Pennsylvania's special election last month. The senator appeared on CBS News' 'Face the Nation' and spoke about how his battle with depression affected him during the campaign.
"I've been open about my struggles with mental health, but this was different," he said. "I felt like I was losing myself, like I wasn't John Fetterman anymore." He added that the experience left him feeling "downward spiral" and wondered if he would be able to continue his work as a senator.
Fetterman, who won the election by a narrow margin of 0.2%, acknowledged that his mental health struggles may have affected his performance on the campaign trail. The senator took responsibility for any perceived shortcomings during the campaign and assured voters that he is "still committed" to serving them.
The senator's openness about his depression is a significant moment in his public career, as it highlights the importance of mental health awareness and encourages others to speak out about their struggles.
Despite facing numerous challenges, Fetterman remains determined to serve the people of Pennsylvania. His commitment to improving mental health resources and reducing stigma around mental illness reflects his dedication to addressing these critical issues.
Fetterman's courageous conversation about depression serves as a reminder that vulnerability is strength, not weakness.
. It's amazing he was brave enough to talk about it and share his struggles with depression. I bet it takes a lot of courage to admit when we're not doing okay, but it's so inspiring to see someone like him owning up to their mental health challenges 
. It's definitely going to help raise awareness and make people feel more comfortable talking about their own struggles 
. We should all be supporting each other through the tough times, you know? Sending lots of love and positive vibes your way 
!
like john fetterman did. hes been thru hell during election campaign & it didnt just affect him, but also his fam 
. it takes courage 2 talk about it, esp when u r in public eye 
. i think fettermans openness will help create a culture of mental health awareness & encourage others 2 speak out 
. we shd all be supportive & understanding towards ppl who r struggling 
he finally opens up about it... took long enough tbh 
. people need to know mental health isn't just for "sensitive" types 
it's a thing we all deal with at some point. glad he's acknowledging it and trying to make change 
but can we pls also talk about the systemic issues that contribute to poor mental health? 
. It takes immense courage to share something so personal and vulnerable, but it's a much-needed reminder that mental health is just as important as physical health 
. I love how he frames this experience as an opportunity to highlight the importance of mental health awareness and reducing stigma around mental illness - it's truly admirable 
. His commitment to improving mental health resources in PA is a huge step forward for the state, and I'm excited to see him continue to break down barriers and push for positive change 
I'm so glad Fetterman is finally speaking out about this. Mental health affects people from all walks of life and it's crazy how much pressure politicians are under to be "tough" all the time 
!