He stated that asking for help is strength, not weakness.
Representative Tom Kean, Jr., of New Jersey returned to Washington, D.C., this week after being absent from Congress since early March. He gave a brief speech on the floor of the House of Representatives, explaining that he had undergone treatment for depression.
“Many people think it is feeling sad. It is so much more than that,” said Representative Kean. “It is physical, it is emotional, and until you experience it yourself, it is difficult to fully understand how powerful this illness can be.”
The congressman stated that, when he had gone to the hospital for testing, he had been diagnosed with depression. He said doctors had recommended he remain hospitalized as the fastest route to recovery. “I was hesitant,” he said. “I didn’t think I had time for it.”
Congressman Kean explained that he had believed it would be a matter of weeks, not months. “As the over 48 million of my fellow Americans being treated for this illness have come to discover, there is no timeline for healing,” he said. “Today I stand before you healthier, stronger and excited to return to the work that I love.”
“If sharing my story encourages even one person to seek help … then this moment will have been worthwhile,” the representative said, encouraging people who are struggling to seek assistance. “Asking for help is not a weakness. It is a strength.”
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Representative Kean and his medical advisors as he returns to his duties in the House.
- For wisdom for Speaker Johnson as he presides over the lower chamber of Congress.
- For Americans who are dealing with depression to seek the help they need.
Sources: Roll Call, Daily Wire
