Rep. Tom Kean Jr. reveals depression treatment leave, calls for reduced stigma

Republican Congressman Tom Kean Jr. told members of the House that he was absent for more than 100 days after being diagnosed with depression and receiving inpatient treatment. He said the disclosure was intended to encourage others to seek help and to open conversations about mental health.

"This is not a partisan issue. It touches every community, every family, and every corner of this country," Kean said. "If sharing my story encourages even one person to seek help, if it gives one family the courage to have a difficult conversation, or if it reminds one person that recovery is possible, then this moment will have been worthwhile."

Experts noted that the public admission by a male elected official could help counter lingering stigma. Dr. Lynn Bufka, the American Psychological Association’s executive lead psychologist for practice, said a leader’s openness may empower others to pursue treatment. Psychiatrist Dr. Judith Joseph added that societal messages often discourage men from acknowledging emotional distress, and seeing a politician seek care can challenge that narrative.

Bufka emphasized that receiving treatment for depression does not diminish a person’s ability to perform their duties, comparing it to recovery from physical illnesses. She also explained that depression can manifest physically and emotionally, and that symptoms such as persistent sadness, hopelessness, concentration problems, sleep or appetite changes, and irritability—especially in men—should prompt professional evaluation.

The experts highlighted that primary-care doctors can screen for depression and that online resources, including validated screenings, are available. Dr. Katie Hurley of The Jed Foundation reminded readers of crisis-help options, such as texting HOME to 741-741 or calling 988.

Treatment typically involves psychotherapy, medication, or a combination, with approaches tailored to individual circumstances, including trauma history, lifestyle factors, and genetics. Bufka cautioned that recovery can take time, likening it to walking a long distance in the woods and needing to work back out.

The overall message from the officials was that seeking help for mental health conditions should be viewed as a normal, responsible step rather than a sign of weakness.