John Fetterman, the Democratic US senator from Pennsylvania, revealed on Sunday how social media exacerbated his battle with mental depression last year. Fetterman, known for his candidness, shared during an exclusive interview with NBC's Meet the Press that comments on social media, particularly about him and his family, played a role in his depression, which led to a six-week hospitalization in February.
Fetterman, a first-term senator and rising star among leftists, emphasized the impact of online negativity, calling it an "accelerant" to his struggles. Despite his victory against Republican celebrity doctor Mehmet Oz, Fetterman admitted to checking social media weeks after the election, leading to heightened anxiety and worsening depressive symptoms.
The senator, who sought treatment for clinical depression at Walter Reed medical center, expressed astonishment at the volume and nature of online comments. He reflected on the toll it took on him and, more significantly, on his family. Fetterman acknowledged the mistake of engaging with social media during a vulnerable period, stating, "It's like, is this [what it] would be the rest of my life? Look what it's done to me, and more importantly what has this done for my family?"
Fetterman, who had previously feared the end of his political career after the hospitalization, has received praise for his transparency regarding mental health care. The senator, wearing his signature black hooded sweatshirt and matching shorts, emphasized the importance of discussing mental health openly, hoping to inspire others to seek help without hesitation.
Despite facing challenges, Fetterman remains committed to public service and vows to continue sharing his experience with depression to help others. He encouraged viewers to be selective with social media use, cautioning against relying on it for mental health support.