The hospitalization of Democratic Sen. John Fetterman for the treatment of clinical depression has brought to light the importance of identifying chronic depression in loved ones. Fetterman, who suffered a stroke last May before winning the Senate nomination, has experienced depression on and off throughout his life, according to his office, but it only became severe in recent weeks.
Studies show that about a third of people who’ve had a stroke suffer some sort of clinical depression. Depression can occur due to different reasons, including directly due to the impact on the brain from the stroke. The fact that Fetterman had a previous stroke makes him even more susceptible to depression.
Identifying chronic depression in loved ones can be difficult, but it’s important to recognize the symptoms and take action. Common symptoms of depression include persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and anxiety, as well as changes in appetite, sleeping patterns, and concentration.
It’s important to talk to loved ones about how they’re feeling and encourage them to seek professional help. Depression is a treatable condition, and seeking help can greatly improve quality of life.
When someone is hospitalized for depression, there is no general rule about how long they should stay in the hospital. According to the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance, patients may stay a few days or as long as a few weeks, depending on their individual needs and circumstances.
The bottom line is that depression is a serious condition that affects millions of Americans. Identifying chronic depression in loved ones and encouraging them to seek help is crucial for their well-being.
