Watch: US congressman reveals depression diagnosis after absence

June 30, 2026

Republican Congressman Tom Kean from New Jersey has returned to his duties at Capitol Hill following a nearly four-month absence during which he received hospital treatment for clinical depression. The lawmaker made the decision to publicly disclose his mental health diagnosis and treatment rather than keeping it private. His motivation for going public centers on helping reduce stigma and encouraging other people who may be struggling with similar mental health challenges to get professional help.

Who is affected

Republican Congressman Tom Kean (New Jersey)
His congressional colleagues at Capitol Hill
Individuals experiencing mental health difficulties (intended beneficiaries of his public disclosure)

What action is being taken

Congressman Tom Kean is returning to Capitol Hill and resuming his congressional duties
He is speaking publicly about his depression diagnosis and hospital treatment

Why it matters

This matters because a high-profile elected official publicly disclosing mental health struggles helps reduce stigma around depression and psychiatric treatment. By sharing his experience, Congressman Kean aims to normalize seeking mental health support and may encourage others, particularly those in positions of leadership or public service, to seek help when experiencing similar difficulties without fear of judgment or professional consequences.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC