Fetterman released from hospital after treatment for depression

(WHTM) – U.S. Senator from Pennsylvania John Fetterman was released Friday from Walter Reed National Military Medical Center after being hospitalized with depression since February.

Fetterman is expected to return to the Senate on April 17, according to a person with knowledge of the plans. With the Senate on vacation, Fetterman returned to his home in Braddock to spend time with his family.

Fetterman’s office recognized the work of his team led by Dr. David Williamson, chief of neuropsychiatry and medical director.

“I’m so happy to be home. I’m thrilled to be the father and husband I want to be, and the Pennsylvania senator he deserves. Pennsylvanians have always had my back, and I will have always theirs,” said Sen. Fetterman. “I am extremely grateful to Walter Reed’s incredible team. The care they gave me changed my life. I will have more to say about this soon, but for now I want everyone to know that depression can be treated and that treatment works. It’s not about politics – right now there are people suffering from depression in red counties and blue counties. If you need help, please get help.

During his treatment, Fetterman’s staff shared photos of the senator receiving in-person briefings from his chief of staff Adam Jentleson, while Fetterman’s wife, Gisele, shared family photos from the hospital on social networks.

February’s hospitalization was Fetterman’s second this year after experiencing dizzy days in January.

Fetterman suffered a stroke in May 2022 days before the Democratic primary and underwent surgery to implant a pacemaker with a defibrillator. Fetterman said the stroke was caused by a heart condition called atrial fibrillation.

Fetterman’s doctor acknowledged in October that Fetterman continued to “exhibit symptoms of an auditory processing disorder that may appear as hearing difficulty” but was recovering well from the near-fatal stroke.

Fetterman was sworn into the US Senate on January 2 after defeating Republican Mehmet Oz with more than 51% of the vote. Fetterman’s victory helped Democrats retain control of the Senate.

In the Senate, Fetterman serves on the agriculture, nutrition, and forestry committees; Banking, housing and urban affairs; and Environment and Public Works.

He also sits on the Joint Economic Committee and the Special Committee on Aging.