Fetterman Admits Thoughts of Self Harm Before Depression Treatment

Pennsylvania Democratic Senator John Fetterman opened up about his struggles with depression and confirmed on NBC News that he had experienced "thoughts of harming" himself before seeking treatment earlier this year.

Fetterman discussed his mental health journey on "Meet The Press," revealing that he underwent treatment for depression at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.

Dem Senator Confirms He Had 'Thoughts Of Harming' Himself Prior To Receiving Treatment For Depressionhttps://t.co/3162IEKdOD

— Daily Caller (@DailyCaller) December 31, 2023

During the interview, NBC host Kristen Welker delicately inquired about Fetterman's mental health, specifically asking if he had ever had "thoughts of harming" himself.

Fetterman, choosing to be fully honest, affirmed that he had indeed experienced such thoughts and shared his journey to help others facing similar challenges.

Welker asked for clarification, stating, "You're saying that you had thoughts of harming yourself?" Fetterman responded, "Yeah, I've had that – I've said that publicly. And at first, I didn't."

He expressed his belief that being fully honest about his struggles could potentially help others make different choices.

Welker further explored Fetterman's decision to seek treatment, asking about the role of his family in encouraging him to check himself into the hospital.

Fetterman described reaching a "fork in the road" and feeling uncertain about the potential outcomes. Ultimately, with the support of his family and a desire to take advantage of the opportunity for improvement, he decided to "take the chance."

Reflecting on the aftermath of publicly admitting himself to the hospital, Fetterman acknowledged feeling desolate about the potential impact on his career.

He revealed that his family visited him at the hospital, but during that period, he mostly wanted to be left alone.

In February 2023, Fetterman checked himself into a military medical hospital due to severe depression. His Chief of Staff confirmed the situation, highlighting the urgency of Fetterman's mental health condition during the preceding weeks.