Perspective: Some see the reaction to Sen. Fetterman’s announcement as a sign of progress, but that’s less true than you might think
Many have lauded Fetterman’s courage, both in seeking treatment and in disclosing his depression. Some have hoped that this disclosure will help to normalize openness about mental health, especially depression and related conditions. The acclaim hasn’t been universal. Some right-wing commentators have leaped at the chance to declare the liberal senator unqualified for office. But overall, the reaction has been more positive than negative.
On July 14, 1972, after his first few choices declined to accept the vice-presidential nomination, McGovern named Eagleton his running mate, following a background check that was minimal by today’s standards. Some in McGovern’s inner circle had heard rumors of past mental illness. According to former senator Gary Hart , who ran McGovern’s campaign, Eagleton was chosen because he was Catholic, rural and from a border state between the North and South.
Yet, the historical record is far blurrier. Eagleton’s depression wasn’t the only element of the story. He had been secretive about his health, which rubbed some voters the wrong way. His response, that it was not something one talked about at cocktail parties, may have seemed too glib. The fact that he had received ECT treatment probably mattered as well. ECT itself was — and remains — highly stigmatized.
Yet, the hopeful narrative that greater knowledge has fueled increased tolerance and understanding, thereby explaining the outpouring of support for Fetterman in the days after his announcement, is too simple. Even some of the support for Fetterman has exposed a critical remaining stigma — doubt over depression’s status as “real” disease.
México Últimas Noticias, México Titulares
Similar News:También puedes leer noticias similares a ésta que hemos recopilado de otras fuentes de noticias.
Dodgers’ Alex Reyes got perspective from daughter’s cancer fightThe pitcher is recovering from his latest injury. His daughter Aleyka, now 6, is cancer-free. ‘We’re in good places now,’ Reyes says.
Leer más »
'You' Missed the Opportunity to Kill Joe and Turn Love Into Our ProtagonistA chance to see YouNetflix from Love's perspective would have fixed the show's repetitiveness.
Leer más »
Perspective | It’s time for Ward 3 to atone, beginning with the Wardman Park hotelA developer wants to remake the Washington landmark — where Langston Hughes once worked as a busboy — into luxury condos. Neighbors want affordable housing.
Leer más »
Perspective | In a lather: What were those sudsy bubbles I saw on trees last week?In a lather: What were those sudsy bubbles I saw on trees last week?
Leer más »
Coolidge’s presidency at 100: Government run for people, not bureaucracyHow people understand history largely depends on who writes it and from what perspective.
Leer más »
Perspective | Presidents’ Day shows the complexity of America’s originsPerspective: The Constitution sanctioned some of the most politically progressive ideas in history. It also blessed slavery.
Leer más »