New Jersey Rep. Tom Kean Jr. has publicly disclosed that he has been dealing with depression, addressing the health issue after an extended absence that kept him largely out of public view for almost four months.
In an unusually personal speech on the House floor, the 57-year-old Republican said his absence began after he sought medical care for what he initially believed would be a short hospital visit. “Several months ago due to health concerns, I entered the hospital for some testing. I didn’t expect a long-term stay. I was given the diagnosis of depression,” Kean said.
Kean was back at his home in Westfield on Wednesday evening, though he declined to discuss the matter in detail when approached by a New York Times reporter. “It’s good to see you. I’ll talk to you next week,” he said.
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Harrison Neely, a top adviser to Kean, later told the outlet in a text message that the congressman plans to be “fully transparent” when he returns to work on June 30.
Kean’s prolonged absence had fueled speculation, particularly as his office offered few specifics, describing the situation only as a “personal health matter” and saying he was “focused on his recovery.”
If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or are experiencing a mental health crisis and live in New York City, you can call 1-888-NYC-WELL for free and confidential crisis counseling. If you live outside the five boroughs, you can dial the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention hotline at 988 or go to SuicidePreventionLifeline.org.
