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Congressman Tom Kean’s hospital treatment for depression may encourage men’s mental health
By CNN Newsource at KVIA ABC-7
· July 1, 2026
· 6 min read
By Madeline Holcombe, CNN
(CNN) — Republican Congressman Tom Kean Jr. stood in the US House Chamber doing something the public rarely sees politicians do –– he spoke about his mental health.
Kean explained his absence from Washington for more than 100 days by disclosing that he had been diagn...
Key takeaway About 18% of adults in the United States reported having or being treated for depression in both 2024 and 2025, according to data from Gallup.
Why this matters in The El Paso
In El Paso , where community and family ties run deep, Congressman Tom Kean's decision to speak publicly about his depression treatment may resonate particularly strongly with local men who have been hesitant to seek help for mental health issues. The city's strong cultural emphasis on masculinity and self-reliance can sometimes make it difficult for men to open up about their emotional struggles. Kean's example, as a man in a position of power, may help to break down these barriers and encourage more El Paso men to prioritize their mental health. Local mental health professionals may see an increase in men seeking treatment, and community leaders can build on Kean's momentum to promote a culture of openness and support for mental health discussions. By sharing his story, Kean may inspire a new wave of local conversations about mental health, helping to reduce stigma and promote a healthier, more supportive community in El Paso.
About this story
Original reporting by KVIA ABC-7 . The El Paso surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KVIA ABC-7 . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 1, 2026 ·
Source: KVIA ABC-7 ·
Reading time: 6 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? By Madeline Holcombe, CNN
(CNN) — Republican Congressman Tom Kean Jr. stood in the US House Chamber doing something the public rarely sees politicians do –– he spoke about his mental health.
Kean explained his absence from Washington for more than 100 days by disclosing that he had been diagn...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 1, 2026 by KVIA ABC-7 and curated for The El Paso readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by CNN Newsource at KVIA ABC-7. To learn more about how The El Paso selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The El Paso, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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