WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Rep. Tom Kean Jr., R-N.J., returned to the House floor Tuesday and revealed that he had been hospitalized and treated for depression during his months-long absence from Congress.
In remarks to the House of Representatives, the congressman from New Jersey’s 7th District thanked his family, constituents, colleagues and medical providers for their support while explaining the reason for his absence.
“I rise today with deep gratitude for the patience, kindness, prayers, and concern that have been shown to me and my family over these past several months. This is not an easy speech for me to give,” Kean said.
Kean said he initially entered the hospital for testing because of health concerns and did not expect to remain there for an extended period.
“Several months ago, due to health concerns, I entered the hospital for some testing. I did not believe this would result in a long-term stay.”
“I was given the diagnosis of depression.”
Kean said he initially believed he could continue working despite his condition but ultimately followed his doctors’ recommendations to remain hospitalized for treatment.
“The doctors recommended that I remain in the hospital to address my illness. They explained to me that it would be the fastest way to recovery. To be honest, I was hesitant. I didn’t think I had time for it. I had responsibilities to my family. Responsibilities to my constituents. Responsibilities to this institution. And like many people, I believed I could simply push through. But I agreed to follow my doctor’s recommendations, again not believing it would result in a long-term stay. I began to understand not only my diagnosis, but how long depression had been affecting my life.”
Kean said that when he initially informed the public he was dealing with a medical issue and expected to return within weeks, he believed that timeline was accurate.
“When I first informed the public that I was dealing with a medical issue, I was still trying to understand what was happening myself. When I said I hoped to return in a matter of weeks, I believed it. Those were the best estimates the doctors could provide. But, as the over 48 million of my fellow Americans being treated for this illness have come to discover, there is no timeline for healing. There is no timeline for recovery. Only the work of getting better one day at a time.”
Kean said he is now healthy and grateful he accepted treatment.
“Today, I am grateful that I listened to my doctors. And I am grateful for the exceptional care I received from my doctors, nurses, and support staff. I am grateful that I accepted help. Because today I stand before you healthier, stronger, and excited to return to the work I love.”
The congressman said the experience strengthened his longstanding support for mental health care.
“I have always been a supporter of mental health care. During my time in the New Jersey Legislature, I worked to advance mental health parity. I believed in the cause then. I understand it in a far more personal way now.”
Kean also encouraged others struggling with mental health challenges to seek help.
“This experience has given me a deeper appreciation for the millions of Americans who face these challenges every day. Many do so quietly. Many do so alone. Many do so while carrying burdens that the rest of us never see. To them I would say: Asking for help is not weakness…it is strength.”
He thanked his constituents, congressional staff and family for their support throughout his recovery.
“To my constituents, thank you. Thank you for your patience. Thank you for your understanding. Thank you for your prayers. And thank you for allowing me the honor of serving you. I also want to thank my staff, who worked tirelessly to ensure our office continued serving constituents every day during my absence. And most importantly, I want to thank my family, whose love, support, and faith carried me through some very difficult days.”
Kean concluded by saying mental health affects people across the country regardless of political affiliation.
“This is not a partisan issue. It touches every community, every family, and every corner of this country. 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. I am grateful to be back with the full support of my doctors. I am grateful to be healthy. And I am grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the people of New Jersey’s Seventh Congressional District.”
